Students

Acquiring Real-World Experience in Financial Services

Posted
August 13, 2024

Matthew Zoller

Class of 2025

Currently Studying: BBA in General Business

Current Internship: Fund Accounting Intern, 4Pines Fund Services

Pronouns: He/Him

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Pace University Lubin School of Business student Matthew Zoller '25

Lubin student Matthew Zoller '25 is gaining real-world experience in financial services, enhancing his academic studies and preparing him for studying overseas.

How has the Lubin School of Business helped you prepare for your current internship?

The Lubin School of Business gave me the essential knowledge and experience required for various professional responsibilities, including my accounting internship with 4Pines. I have a strong foundation in managerial and financial accounting principles thanks to the accounting classes I took at Pace. The information I learned was essential for grasping the tasks and projects related to my internships.

I have a strong foundation in managerial and financial accounting principles thanks to the accounting classes I took at Pace.

What attracted you to this internship?

What attracted me to this internship is the company's innovative approach to accounting and finance, and its dedication to using cutting-edge technologies to optimize operations. 4Pines drew me to their focus on professional development and practical experience in a fast-paced work atmosphere, which also resonated with my desire to pursue a career in accounting.

Describe what a typical day looks like as an intern at 4Pines Fund Services.

A typical day as an intern at 4Pines Fund Services starts with arriving at the office around 8:45 a.m. I get directly into my emails and respond to anything important. I then make a "To-Do" list for the day having my priority tasks first and then less important tasks after. Depending on the day, we have a team meeting starting at 9:30 a.m. I then begin working on my assigned projects. This can take anywhere from an hour to all day depending on my task/project. I take lunch anywhere from around 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., depending on how busy I am in the morning. After lunch, I continue to work on my tasks/projects until the end of the day.

What has been the highlight or most enjoyable aspect of your internship so far?

To date, my favorite aspect of my internship has been getting to learn from all the staff members at 4Pines. Because of the wide age range of the company's workforce, I always receive excellent advice from people who are either five or twenty-five years older than me. The fact that they are all interested in seeing you succeed is what makes coming to work every day so delightful.

How has this experience shaped or impacted your career goals?

My internship at 4Pines Fund Services gives me a deeper understanding of the financial services sector and the real-world applications of accounting principles, which has greatly influenced my career ambitions. My ambition to pursue a career in accounting has been strengthened by the practical experience and mentorship I have received. This is especially true in the innovative and exciting field of fund services.

How will this experience impact your next semester at Lubin?

My internship has given me real-world experience and practical insights that will enhance my academic studies in the upcoming semester. In the fall, I will be studying overseas. My time at 4Pines has provided me with an opportunity to see how the accounting industry functions in the context of global business. My comprehension of advanced accounting concepts will be improved by the technical skills and industry knowledge I've acquired, which will enable me to do well in my coursework and make a more significant contribution to class discussions and projects.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students who would like to pursue an internship in the future?

Students who want to secure an internship should start looking and applying as soon as they can, and they should make a special effort to get in touch with employers and ask about summer internships. This shows initiative, and companies will respect someone who makes the effort. Lastly, try to develop a plan for the field you want to work in and don't be scared to take risks.

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