Why I decided to do a high school summer internship at Merrill Lynch
By A. Laughlin, Princeton Grad
My decision to pursue a summer internship at Merrill Lynch wasn't driven by a singular, burning ambition for finance. It was, however, fueled by a curiosity to understand the inner workings of finance and the complexities of the financial world. Coming from a public high school in Southern California, I craved practical experience to complement my "book" skills. Little did I know, this internship would become the catalyst for a far greater revelation – my choice in college and eventual entrepreneurial calling.
Merrill Lynch offered an immersive experience. I wasn't relegated to photocopying or mundane tasks. Instead, I shadowed seasoned financial advisors, observing their client interactions and the meticulous strategies employed to navigate the financial landscape. Witnessing firsthand the dedication required to cultivate strong client relationships instilled in me the importance of building trust and fostering genuine connections. However, the rigid structures and limitations of traditional wealth management became increasingly apparent.