In October, 16 exceptional students from Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business embarked on a transformative journey to New York City through Panthers on Wall Street, a flagship program designed to bridge classroom learning with the dynamic world of finance and insurance careers.
Panthers on Wall Street exemplifies Robinson’s commitment to cultivating career-ready talent. In preparation for the three-day excursion, students undergo a rigorous selection process and months of professional development training, ensuring they are equipped to make meaningful connections and impressions.
While in New York City, the fall 2024 Panthers on Wall Street cohort engaged directly with leaders at industry giants such as Axa XL, Chubb, J.P. Morgan, and Starr Insurance Companies, gaining insights into capital markets, risk management, and financial strategies. Through site visits and workshops hosted by these corporate partners, students networked with executives, and discussed critical trends and challenges within the finance and insurance sectors.
"The Panthers on Wall Street program is fostering the next generation of leaders in the risk management and insurance industries. We were pleased to spend time with such a bright and inquisitive group of students," said Sean Ringsted, chief digital business officer and chief analytics officer at Chubb. "Risk management is increasingly critical to building resilience in our economy and society, and Robinson students are career-ready and well-equipped to lead the way because of fantastic programs like this.”
The three-day trip was packed with company site visits and a taste of city life, including a tour of the New York Stock Exchange. Photo courtesy of Wai Ng.
The cohort caught a glimpse of life in the city through visits to iconic landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, and Wall Street’s Fearless Girl.
“Most students have never been to New York City, so we want them to fully experience its energy – not only as a global financial capital but also as a potential home,” said Sharry Conroy, director of Panther Immersion Programs.
Many Panthers on Wall Street participants end up landing internships and jobs at New York City firms, and play an essential role in the program’s enduring success. For example, Brian Burch, finance director at Intercontinental Exchange (B.B.A., finance, 2014), and Tamara Cockfield, associate at J.P. Morgan (B.B.A., finance, 2019), offered this year’s cohort invaluable insights and guidance.
“Our alumni want to give back in time, talent, and treasure,” Conroy said. “They lead workshops, mentor students, and facilitate incredible opportunities.”
The students returned from their trip with strong connections and a newfound sense of possibility.
“The program builds students’ confidence, strengthens their professional networks, and helps them understand what they need to do to stand out. They also obtain a sense of what the pace is like in their industry of choice. It’s equally beneficial to employers with emerging talent needs,” Conroy said.
Panthers on Wall Street launched 16 years ago, and has since grown into the broader umbrella of Panther Immersion Programs that include trips to New York City, Charlotte, Chicago, Silicon Valley, and Washington, D.C. Each destination aligns with one or more target industries, such as finance and insurance, fintech, commercial real estate, technology, and consulting.
Corporate partnerships are a cornerstone of Panther Immersion Programs. Partners benefit from meaningful engagement with high-achieving and motivated students, opportunities to showcase themselves as employers of choice, and the ability to collaborate with Robinson to shape the next generation of leaders.
“The success of our 2024 Wall Street experience is thanks to the financial support of our key partners, including Axa XL, Chubb, Starr Companies, and others,” Conroy emphasized. “Their support is a critical part of our ability to sustain and scale the program.”
Interested in hosting or sponsoring a Panther Immersion Program experience?
Contact Sharry Conroy, director of immersive programs, to learn more.