Student snapshot

Katelyn Haley

Hometown: Pittsboro, North Carolina
Major: Finance and applied economics
Career goals: High finance professional

With a sugar-free Red Bull to her left, Katelyn Haley looks back and forth at the two monitors in front of her. She is in her element. She loves to read historical fiction, but that happens only when she is on break from ECU. More often, financial reports, industry reports, The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg have her attention for hours each day.

“Financial markets have always been really fascinating to me. They’re extremely dynamic, and it’s one of those areas where there’s always something new to learn,” Haley said.

Haley has become a leader in the College of Business’ Blacksail Fund, the student-managed fund where they make real investments with real money. It’s a great way to get experience in college, and the money they make helps fund student trips.

“The pressure makes it fun,” Haley said. “You can’t predict the future and can’t control it, despite all of the research and knowledge that you put into it.”

Haley graduated in May and is headed to Tysons Corner, Virginia, to work as a valuation associate for “Big Four” accounting firm KPMG — a job offer she received last October.

“I hope younger students, especially young women, see that it’s important to get involved early and not be afraid to step outside of their comfort zone,” she said. “Through researching companies, building investment theses and discussing ideas with the team, I’ve developed skills that translate directly to what I’ll be doing after graduation.”