Jefferson Students Build Their Financial Futures

When it comes to managing money, today’s college students face a steep learning curve. A 2024 Forbes study found that most young adults tested on basic financial concepts—including interest rates, budgeting and credit—scored far below passing. At Jefferson, one student-led finance club works to change this narrative.

JeffInvest helps participants build confidence with money while preparing for careers in finance and beyond. Through workshops, speaker events and hands-on investing exercises, the group has quickly become a hub for financial education on campus.

“We meet every week and start by talking about what’s going on in the markets and the economy,” explains Raina Kalpesh Mehta, finance major and co-president. “Our adviser even invests some of his own money with us, so we can practice building a real portfolio. It’s open to any major, not just finance, and gives everyone the tools to start saving and investing.”

Why Financial Literacy Matters
The club’s leaders say financial literacy is about more than preparing for a Wall Street career. It’s about building confidence in everyday life.

“Financial literacy isn’t about how much money you make; it’s about how you use it,” says Thais Peroto, finance major and JeffInvest co-president. “Even people who don’t have high-paying jobs can create stability if they know how to budget and manage money wisely. The earlier you start, the stronger your future will be.”

Mehta agrees, adding that even adults often underestimate opportunity costs when saving money. “If your money is just sitting around, you’re losing out,” she says. “When you invest, it can compound over time. Even small steps help you avoid debt and start building for the future. Being aware of this from a young age can change your financial trajectory.”

For Heba Nasir, JeffInvest vice president and finance/pre-MBA major, joining the club meant gaining a foundation for her career goals.

“I wanted something extracurricular that would support my future in finance,” she says. “We do everything from resume workshops to investment labs, and it has given me the technical skills and confidence to start thinking long term.”

Learning Through Experience
JeffInvest’s focus on hands-on learning sets it apart, members say. Weekly meetings mix current events with real investing practice. Students follow market trends, discuss major mergers and learn to analyze sectors of the economy. Each member can serve as a sector analyst, responsible for presenting updates and suggesting investments.

“Every meeting we talk about financial terms and how markets move,” Mehta says. “I’ve learned how to research companies, explain why we should invest and pay attention to international markets. It makes you want to keep up with what’s happening in the world.”

Nasir adds that the club has allowed her to push through the fear of uncertainty. “Investing always comes with risk,” she says. “At first it was intimidating, but I’ve learned how to do research, trust my judgment and not let fear stop me from making smart decisions.”

For Enrique Samano, a construction management student minoring in finance, JeffInvest is an opportunity to expand his horizons.

“Joining gave me a chance to ask questions and learn the basics,” says Samano, the club’s engagement coordinator. “Industry visits to places like Bloomberg help me understand how news impacts markets. It makes investing feel real and approachable.”

Community and Connection
JeffInvest has become a source of community for many students. “I never really had friends in finance before joining the club,” Mehta admits. “Now, I know people who share my passion, and we can support each other.”

Peroto’s desire for community drew her to the club, she says. “JeffInvest gave me that, and it keeps me motivated to learn more.”

“It’s so nice to be surrounded by people who all want to learn the same things,” Nasir agrees. “We’re striving for similar goals, and we push each other to keep growing.”

Peroto notes that the group’s culture is a key strength. “It’s not just about building a resume,” she says. “It’s about building a community that will keep going even after we graduate.”

Preparing for Careers
The club’s emphasis on networking and professional development proves invaluable. “Visiting firms like J.P. Morgan and Clark Capital gives me a sense of what it really takes to succeed in the financial world,” Peroto says. “Talking to professionals shows me that your career path doesn’t have to be straight—it can grow in different directions.”

“For me, it bridges the gap between theory and reality,” Mehta adds. “Classrooms give you the concepts, but JeffInvest connects you to what’s happening right now. That’s what prepares you for a career.”

Faculty adviser Dr. Tim Mooney, associate professor of finance, praises the group’s initiative.

“JeffInvest is a great outlet for students to engage with finance regardless of their level of knowledge or interest,” he says. “Some want to dive deep into company analysis, others just want to improve their general financial literacy. The club offers many avenues for students to learn and have some fun along the way.”

Looking Ahead
The club is already expanding its resources. The new Thackrah Capital Markets Research Lab in the Tuttleman Center will provide access to Bloomberg terminals, enabling students to earn certifications highly valued by employers.

“That lab will be one of the biggest things for us this year,” Mehta says. “We want to make the most of it, not just for finance majors but for anyone who wants to strengthen their resume.”

The group also plans to host more workshops on resume building, financial literacy and career readiness. For members, it’s about building something lasting.

“We want JeffInvest to keep growing as a source of community,” Peroto says.