Lincoln native Chris Spanel used a combination of personal connections and UNL College of Business Administration resources to start his career. Set to graduate in May, the finance major landed a job with Credit Suisse in Chicago as an investment banking analyst. Credit Suisse is one of the world’s leading banks committed to delivering financial experience and expertise to corporate, institutional and government clients.
“Career Services at CBA was most beneficial in helping me edit my resume and gain connections in my field of interest,” he said. “They also taught me how to navigate LinkedIn, so I could reach out to alumni working in investment banking which helped me get an internship and later a full-time job.”
Spanel also spoke with the finance faculty about career options in the field while he was taking classes.
“I found the finance professors were extremely helpful in planning my four years in CBA. They helped me learn about career paths within the field of finance which gave me an edge,” he said.
Spanel networks at Big Red Investment Club event
A founding member of the Big Red Investment Club (BRIC), Spanel served in many leadership roles including group leader, treasurer and president. He was instrumental in planning the BRIC trip to New York City during fall break in October to visit with three CBA alumni who currently work in investment banking in the financial center of the United States.
“I was extremely lucky this club started while I was in college. I gained leadership experience, internship opportunities and a full-time job because of my involvement in BRIC,” Spanel said. “The trip to New York City was an opportunity for members to gain knowledge and connections, and for the alumni to pass their experience on to others so they may gain from it.”
Spanel had a memorable senior year at CBA. In the fall, he was one of six CBA students named to the 2013 Homecoming Court. He was also a member of the CFA Institute Research Challenge team which competed in Des Moines, Iowa, in February. The team of five finance majors finished in second place.
As he reflected back on his own college experience, he offered some simple yet effective advice for incoming freshmen.
“I would encourage freshman to be more active and get involved in a club or event in their first two semesters of college. It will help determine what they are really interested in and will help build their resume,” he explained. “Basically, go to class, get involved and have some fun.”
Published: April 8, 2014