Membership FAQ

1. What differentiates the Finance Association from other student organizations on campus?

The FA is the only student organization on campus directed solely towards finance majors. The services that we provide our members are unique and are not offered by other organizations. The purpose of these services is to educate our members of the careers and opportunities available in the finance industry as well as assist them in obtaining a career. These goals are achieved through the variety of events that we offer to our members, which are described below.

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2. What events/activities does the Finance Association sponsor for its members?

There are several activities that the FA offers to its members in order to accomplish its mission. The first are FA sponsored company presentations that take place throughout the academic year. These presentations are given by companies from every area in the financial industry. During the presentations, members will be given the opportunity to learn not only about that specific company, but also about that area of finance and what characteristics the employer seeks in job applicants. This is an excellent time for members to network with recruiters and ask any questions that they may have. The companies that will be giving presentations are also active recruiters on campus for full time and internship positions.

Each fall we also sponsor a Finance Career Fair, which is free to all members.

Generally we invite about twenty companies that are all hiring specifically for finance related positions. This event provides members with the chance to pass out their resumes and speak with company representatives about employment opportunities.

The FA also sponsors two trips each year, to New York and Chicago . During the trips we will visit several businesses to better understand the finance industry first hand and to network with recruiters. These trips are very competitive and preference is given to those members who are active members within the FA. Each year we attempt to keep the costs as low as possible, but participating members are expected to fund a portion of each trip.

The Finance Association is always looking for new ways to achieve its goals by sponsoring different events. In the past we have offered student forums, extensive informational presentations directed at a specific career path, and various social activities.

If you have any additional recommendations or suggestions please let us know.

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3. I'm a freshman/sophomore, how can I benefit from joining the Finance Association?

It would be very beneficial for students at the freshman or sophomore level to become involved in the FA. Many students find themselves in their junior or senior year unprepared and without direction. Joining the FA early will provide you with many opportunities to make sure this does not happen to you. You will be able to learn about the many different areas of finance by attending our various events. This will allow you to narrow the areas of finance that you are interested in. Throughout the year you will be able to network with the companies you are interested in and learn more about them. In addition to speaking about specific companies in the presentations, many recruiters will also cover other topics of interest including interviewing tips, resume recommendations, and what skills you should develop in the next couple of years. You will also be exposed to students who have been at Michigan State for a couple years and may have more experience. These students can be excellent resources as well as contacts for you when they enter the financial industry.

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4. I'm a junior/senior, how can I benefit from joining the Finance Association?

As a junior or senior, the FA can play a crucial role in your job or internship search. If you are not already familiar with the different areas of finance, the FA can help provide you with this knowledge. As juniors and seniors begin searching for a position in the finance industry, the FA can help bring you closer to employers with many networking opportunities. By participating in our events, members will have the opportunity to associate with recruiters and make a good impression before the interview.

5. It's the middle of the semester, can I still join?

Students may join the FA at anytime during the year. However, we do recommend that students join as early as possible to take full advantage of the opportunities that we provide to our members.

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6. I am very busy with classes, work, and other obligations, what kind of time commitment does the Finance Association require?

There is not a required time commitment for members of the FA. Members are free to attend company presentations and other FA sponsored events at their leisure. We do strongly recommend that members stay active and participate as much as they can. We enjoy filling the classrooms for the companies that we invite to present and appreciate your participation. For some of our events, including the trips, preference is given to those students who have remained active throughout the year.

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7. I'm not a finance major, can I still join the Finance Association and how would it benefit me?

Students of any major are welcome to join the FA. Many students are still undecided as to which major or career path is right for them. The FA provides an excellent opportunity for these students to determine whether or not a career in finance is right for them. By attending the FA events, these students will expose themselves to the different careers available as well as individuals in the finance industry.

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8. I want to join the Finance Association, how can I become a member?

Students may pick up an application at the FA office door at room N120 at anytime. The application may also be printed from this website and turned in. There are also several ways payment can be made. Check or cash may be dropped off at the office or be paid at any of our FA sponsored events. We now offer the option of paying online by credit card.