October 16, 2014
Learning On Wall Street
While most kids his age were sleeping late, hanging out at the pool, or vacationing with their families this summer, Prince Avenue Christian School senior Ben Butler was dressed in professional attire, attending college class, and visiting major corporations such as J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and BNY Mellon in New York City. Ben had the unique opportunity to attend The Wall Street Summer Program through Drew University. While Drew University is located in Madison, New Jersey, the program Ben attended took place in the heart of Manhattan. “I could look out of the window during class and see all of Central Park from the 45th floor. It was amazing.”
The Wall Street Summer Program was a three week course that combined morning class time with afternoon visits to major corporations and companies. The students heard from investment brokers, human resources directors, chief investment officers, and other business personnel, all of whom are Drew University alumni. Students had the opportunity to meet the alumni, visit their places of business, hear first-hand accounts of their experiences, and ask questions. There were 30 students in the class, and Ben was one of two high school students in attendance. “Definitely the class itself was the most challenging part of the whole experience. The class was worth eight college credits, and it moved along quickly. It was a lot of information in a short amount of time.”
Ben says that being at PACS helped prepare him for interacting with classmates and professors in a smaller class. “I have been at Prince Avenue since Kindergarten. I am used to learning in a smaller, more relational environment.” His high school history teacher, Katie Gamble, taught him how to take what he learns and see how it will get him to the next step in life. “I was really able to apply that outlook during my time in New York.
“Ben says this unique opportunity helped him to jump-start his long-term goal of working in the area of wealth management. “I have always loved numbers and market analysis, but I also care about people. I would like to major in Finance at the University of Georgia, and help people plan and manage money in a way that helps them in life.”
Ultimately, Ben says that his experience has allowed him to return home with greater self-discipline and personal responsibility. “While I was in New York, I was completely responsible for myself. I had to get myself up and ready and to class on time. I bought my own groceries, kept my own schedule, and traveled the city on my own.”
Ben is enjoying his senior year at Prince, but he has not lost any momentum as he looks to his future. As a result of the confidence gained this summer, Ben has continued with decisions that will help him reach his goals. “This summer was just the first step of many for me. I am currently doing an internship with Wells Fargo Advisers, and I will continue to pursue internships throughout college.”