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Will Nikisher

Class of 2027

Currently Studying: BBA in Business Administration, MBA in Accounting

Current Internship Position: Finance/Accounting and Operations Intern

Company: 400 Capital Management LLC

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How has the Lubin School of Business helped you prepare for your current internship?

The Lubin School of Business has helped prepare me in countless ways. Mr. Jim Davis from the Â鶹´«Ã½ Services team played a key role in my journeyÂ鶹´«Ã½”he conducted mock interviews with me, worked closely with me to fine-tune my résumé through several rounds, and offered valuable insights and advice that truly helped me secure this opportunity.

My accounting classes were also instrumental in strengthening my understanding of the subject. My professors were always more than willing to help and answer any questions I had, which contributed greatly to my success in the (pre-)professional field during this internship.

Professional Planning and Practice for Internships and Â鶹´«Ã½s (BUS 255) was another course that made a significant impact. It gave me a deeper sense of urgency and motivation to succeed. The class opened my eyes to the competitiveness of the field and the importance of internships, networking, and career-focused eventsÂ鶹´«Ã½”all of which ultimately helped me land this position.

What attracted you to this internship?

As unusual as it may sound, IÂ鶹´«Ã½™ve always wanted to work for a hedge fundÂ鶹´«Ã½”so when I saw 400 Capital listed on Handshake, it immediately caught my attention. It was also a chance to gain a new perspective and explore an area of finance in which I had limited experience. I was eager to take on something challenging and unfamiliarÂ鶹´«Ã½”not only to grow professionally, but also to discover what might be the best fit for my future. So far, 400 Capital has been an incredible company, helping me grow both professionally and personally.

Describe what a typical day looks like in this role.

A typical day begins with me settling into my desk and checking my Teams calendar for any meetings or informational sessions scheduled throughout the day. I then review my emails and, if time permits, check the markets and current news.

From there, I jump into whatever task IÂ鶹´«Ã½™m currently working on or speak with my manager to see where I can help. A significant portion of my day is spent working in Excel, typically performing auditing or reconciliation tasks. I also regularly use platforms such as Duco and Bloomberg.

Every day brings unique experiences and a wealth of knowledge, which keeps the overall experience both fun and insightful.

What has been the highlight or most enjoyable aspect of your internship so far?

The people and culture at 400 Capital have been the biggest highlight of my experience. The firmÂ鶹´«Ã½™s smaller size creates a unique environment where interns can work closely with partnersÂ鶹´«Ã½”and even interact with the founder of the firm.

IÂ鶹´«Ã½™ve had the opportunity to attend lunches with partners and other senior leaders, hear their stories firsthand, and form meaningful connections. ItÂ鶹´«Ã½™s a rare and special experience to learn from professionals at so many different levels and stages of their careers in such a personal and direct way.

The level of support and enthusiasm from everyone here has made me feel truly valued as an intern. Whether itÂ鶹´«Ã½™s the informative slide presentations employees put together to teach us about different financial sectors or the quick, insightful conversations throughout the day, the environment at 400 Capital is consistently warm and welcoming.

How has this experience shaped or impacted your career goals?

Before this internship, I was set on working for one of the Big Four firms. However, after experiencing the incredible value and hands-on learning that a small to midsized firm like 400 Capital offers, IÂ鶹´«Ã½™ve broadened my perspective on where I see my future heading.

I now recognize the potential and unique opportunities available at smaller firmsÂ鶹´«Ã½”such as personal mentorship, meaningful connections, and direct exposure to leadershipÂ鶹´«Ã½”which can be just as impactful as working for a well-known name.

I now recognize the potential and unique opportunities available at smaller firmsÂ鶹´«Ã½”such as personal mentorship, meaningful connections, and direct exposure to leadership.

How do you plan to apply what youÂ鶹´«Ã½™ve learned during this internship to your next semester at Lubin?

IÂ鶹´«Ã½™ve gained a strong foundation in Excel, developed new technical skills, and learned how to navigate various systems used in finance operations. I plan to apply these tools to my coursework and projects next semester.

IÂ鶹´«Ã½™ve also had incredible opportunities to absorb valuable information through informational sessions covering a wide range of financial sectors.

Beyond technical knowledge, IÂ鶹´«Ã½™m returning with sharper time management skills, stronger communication practices, and a greater sense of professionalismÂ鶹´«Ã½”all of which will help me make the most of my time at Lubin.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students who are looking to pursue internships in the future?

Your résumé is your first impressionÂ鶹´«Ã½”update it regularly and expand your skill set by completing relevant trainings and earning quality certifications. Be sure to add these to your résumé and tailor it to highlight the skills most relevant to the specific role youÂ鶹´«Ã½™re applying for.

Extracurricular activities and work experience are also important to employers. They demonstrate your ability to manage multiple responsibilities while staying focused in schoolÂ鶹´«Ã½”showing skills that companies value.

Take full advantage of Â鶹´«Ã½ Services. Mock interviews and one-on-one sessions were extremely helpful for me, and for many others I know.

Finally, research the company and your interviewers in advance. If itÂ鶹´«Ã½™s a virtual interview, consider keeping notes on hand in case you get stuck. Most importantly, be confident in yourselfÂ鶹´«Ã½”your natural, authentic responses are usually best. Be prepared, stay confident, and donÂ鶹´«Ã½™t be afraid to challenge yourself or step outside of your comfort zone.

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