Student Spotlight: Ivory Djahouri, Junior Finance Major

Year:  Junior
Major: Finance major
Minor: Business Analytics

Why did you choose to major in finance?

I chose finance because I really like numbers, and it deals heavily with transactions and learning about the stock market. So I think it’s really important, especially because it deals with money, and money is important. I minored in Business Analytics in order to make myself more marketable for job opportunities.

As a finance major, what professions interest you the most?

I really like helping people so I am interested in being a financial adviser, but with my minor in Business Analytics I can also consider being a financial analyst. Hopefully, I can be a CFO one day.

How are you involved at UIC?

I just recently joined FIG, which is the Finance and Investment Group at UIC. I’ve really enjoyed it. I wish I would have joined it my freshmen year but I was actually in LAS my first year, then I switched over to business. I wish I had known that I was interested in business when I was a freshman because the process and transition would have been smoother. I am a general office aide assistant at the front desk on the 11th floor of University Hall. I’ve been working there for about eight months. I don’t have any internship experience, however that job seems like an internship because I’m really interacting with students who stop by to ask questions. I try to give them the best answer possible from questions about advising to helping with troubleshooting.

What are some challenges you’ve faced as a junior, Finance major and how did you overcome them?

I had trouble balancing schoolwork, especially as a freshman trying to find a job. Now it’s managing schoolwork with work as an aide assistant. It’s really important to divide my time by making sure I can study and come in to work and perform to the best of my abilities. I recently just got a daily planner so that I can schedule things and know when something is due. That has really helped me this year.

What advice do you have for your fellow undergraduate Finance majors?

Get to know your professors and remember that all questions are good questions. You may not want to raise your hand in class but you can definitely go to the professor’s office hours. They are readily available to you. Also, it is important for students to get involved. Even if you’re a junior or senior, it’s not too late to join organizations. It would look great on your resume and would make you more marketable. Lastly, explore! UIC is in the center of Chicago so you can explore the business world here, visit the loop, and just get involved.