As an Accounting major in ËÄÉ«AV’s School of Business, Jesse Bianco ’25 is already building the kind of résumé many students only dream about. From leading the Student Managed Investment Fund to hosting a multi-university CFA event, completing three high-level internships, and gaining firsthand exposure to the New York Stock Exchange and Federal Reserve, Jesse is the definition of an engaged, career-focused business student.
And with each opportunity, he moves closer to his goal of working in finance at the highest levels.
Hands-On Learning That Brings Wall Street to Life
Jesse’s ËÄÉ«AV experience has been shaped by immersive, real-world learning opportunities offered through the School of Business. Trips to the New York Stock Exchange, Federal Reserve Bank, Citibank global headquarters, and Wall Street were transformational moments that connected classroom concepts directly to the world of professional finance.
“My favorite part of a recent New York City trip was visiting Citibank headquarters and the trading floor,” he shared. “Seeing where they work and learning what each person does was eye-opening and made the careers we study in class feel even more real. The Federal Reserve and NYSE were incredible too—seeing how everything we learned in class comes to life in the market was inspiring.”
These experiences strengthen ËÄÉ«AV’s growing reputation for experiential, career-aligned business education.
A Leader Among Business Students
Inside the classroom and out, Jesse has taken on leadership roles that demonstrate his initiative and commitment to the field. Here on campus, he is a School of Business Ambassador and the President of ËÄÉ«AV’s Student Managed Investment Fund. He also serves as a Student Ambassador for the CFA Society New York.
In January, Jesse hosted and moderated an online CFA student event featuring panelists such as a former Goldman Sachs Managing Director, a Goldman Sachs analyst, and leaders from ËÄÉ«AV. Students from NYU, Baruch, Fordham, and other institutions attended.
“From opening remarks to closing questions, Jesse shaped each segment with clarity and purpose,” one event summary noted. The session gave students direct access to industry experts and underscored the role of CFA preparation in building a career foundation.
Jesse’s own involvement with the CFA Society began after passing the CFA Level I Exam as an undergraduate—an achievement that sets him apart and already contributed to securing a highly competitive full-time position.
Three Internships, One Clear Path
Jesse has completed three internships, each building deeper technical and analytic skills.
Secured through the School of Business, Jesse’s first internship at a local accounting firm allowed him to progress from scanning and organizing tax returns to preparing them himself, developing financial statements, and assembling company ledgers.
He previously interned at a private equity firm in New York City, where he conducted due diligence, analyzed pitch decks, evaluated trade viability, and supported strategies for client outreach. His current internship at PKF O’Connor Davies involves preparing sophisticated tax returns and working with complex financial structures for wealthy individuals.
“My entire accounting education and everything I’ve learned through these internships has completely prepared me,” he said.
Faculty Mentorship That Shaped His Professional Identity
While internships and trips shaped his skill set, it was ËÄÉ«AV’s faculty who helped guide his direction.
One mentor stands out: Dr. Steven Kent, CFA.
“Dr. Kent has had a major impact on my professional development,” Jesse said. “He encouraged me to pursue the CFA exams in the first place and has always been available for advice, guidance, and conversations about goals and next steps.”
Jesse also emphasized that the entire School of Business faculty fostered a culture of support, accessibility, and real-world insight.
“My professors do a great job simplifying complex topics while still teaching the depth needed to apply them at work. Everyone—from advisors to professors—has always been willing to share their experience and help me grow.”
Preparing for the Future of Finance
Jesse’s next goal is clear: passing the CFA Level II Exam and stepping into his already-secured full-time role as a Business Valuations Associate in New York City, where he will evaluate complex investments.
“The partner I interviewed with had also taken CFA exams as an undergraduate,” Jesse said. “They understood the discipline it requires, and it helped me stand out.”
With hands-on learning, strong faculty mentorship, and three internships behind him, Jesse is well-positioned for a thriving career in finance.
