Exploring Finance Pathways

It's that time of year again—when searching and applying for summer internships (and those last-minute grad programs) feels like taking on an extra 6-credit course. Hours and hours spent meticulously scrolling through LinkedIn and GradConnection, trying to find the perfect role. The waters can be a bit murky when understanding what positions involve and where they could lead. With so many different roles out there, we are here to offer a little guidance to ease the process a little. 

Navigating the corporate world can sometimes feel like stepping into uncharted territory, especially for women aspiring  to make a mark in industries traditionally dominated by men. But here’s some good news: the world of corporate careers is evolving, and with it comes a wealth of opportunities, some of which may have been completely unbeknownst to some!

At the University of Sydney, a  Bachelor of Commerce degree isn’t just about numbers and financial statements. It offers diverse majors that equip students with a unique blend of skills, making them highly sought after across various industries. So, whether you’re passionate about data, finance, or even the arts, there’s a place for you in the corporate world!

Let’s talk about the big picture. The traditional pathways into corporate careers are no longer the only routes to success. The Korn Ferry article, "Finance Roles Are Changing—Here’s How You Can Prepare," highlights the shifting landscape of finance roles. It’s all about staying adaptable, continuously upskilling, and being ready to take on new challenges. This shift means that professionals from diverse backgrounds—yes, even those without a finance degree—are finding their place in the industry.

Take the big four consultancy firms—PwC, Deloitte, KPMG, and EY—as prime examples. They’re not just hiring commerce grads anymore. These giants are looking for talent from fields like science, engineering, history, and arts. Why? Because they understand that a diverse workforce brings fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table. It’s for the same reason that Usyd is so passionate about giving students the opportunity to complete interdisciplinary units. In the end, it’s not just about what you know but how you think, communicate, and adapt to new situations. 

All this being said, if you’re reading this, chances are you’re pursuing a Commerce degree or something closely related. Whether you’re knee-deep in accounting equations or exploring the intricacies of business strategy, you’re likely curious about where these studies can lead you. So, let’s dive into some exciting career paths that align with your field—roles where your hard-earned skills can shine and where you can make a real impact in the corporate world.

So, what can you do with your major? The CFA Institute categorises finance roles into Quantitative & Analytical Roles, Client-Facing Roles, and Transaction-Focused Roles, each requiring a different set of skills. But here’s the thing—you’re not limited to the stereotypical career path associated with your major.

With a wealth of so many different roles, landing the dream job might take its time. From gaining work experience, internships, part time jobs and networking, key opportunities and avenues emerge that open up your career to options.networking. It might sound cliché, but these are the golden tickets, to understanding the corporate world and discovering where you truly fit in. And most importantly, be bold and ask those questions. Every response brings you one step closer to figuring out your career path. And as technology continues to develop, and more careers emerge, finance is merely an essential tool to open up an abundance of doors, no matter what line of work you end up in! 

WIF prides ourselves on navigating one another through this journey, wherever it may lead.  The world of finance and beyond is full of opportunities, and us women have the skills, determination, and resilience to seize them. Let’s embrace the diversity around us, explore the vast possibilities, and carve out our unique paths to success.

Until next time,

WIF 💙💙

(Written by Isabel Hanna)