“The support system that CV represents has been instrumental to my college journey. Knowing that there is a group of people cheering me on keeps me motivated, and at the same time, understanding that there are people I can reach out to for input is very comforting.”
– William Feng, Boston University ‘18
William is a graduate from Boston University where he majored in finance. William, and his CV class’, college process and journey wasn’t easy, but they have accomplished something that not all first-generation students have the opportunity to do–attain a college degree. Because of your support, CV will welcome more students into the Alumni Community! To know more about William’s journey, read his interview below:
What college/university do you attend, what is your major/grad year and why did you choose it?
Boston University; majoring in finance; class of 2018
Growing up, I was influenced by my parents who were both small business owners so the idea of pursuing a business degree at university had always been within the realm of possibilities. After I graduated high school, I was fortunate enough to have received an internship opportunity from Bank of America, which my CV advisor, Emily Gonzalez, had encouraged me to apply. Through the internship, I was granted the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. for a conference where I learned about the interactivity of government, non-profits and businesses. This experience really cemented my interest in business and helped me develop an appreciation for finance.
What are your post-grad plans?
After graduation, I will be joining Goldman Sachs in their Investment Management Division.
Are you part of any on-campus groups and why did you join?
On campus, I am involved with a nonprofit called College AppAssist. The premise of this organization is very similar to College Visions in its mission of helping first-generation, inner-city high school students access higher education. We achieve this by providing social, emotional and educational mentorship to those students. Currently, I am working with a senior that is attending school in downtown Boston. I became involved with this organization because reflecting back, I was fortunate enough to reap the benefits that College Visions conferred on me; as my way of paying it forward, I hope that I could be to another student what College Visions was to me.
Additionally, I am part of the Finance and Investment Club on campus where we invest a small portion of the university’s endowment, and I also serve as a resident assistant in one of the campus dormitories.
Why is it important for students to get involved on campus?
Being involved on campus is very important because first, it is a great way to develop leadership and soft skills that will enrich one’s experience beyond the classroom. Second, it is a great avenue to meet people of similar interest, which is more conducive to forming friendships beyond perfunctory contexts.
What are some goals you are working towards and how is CV helping you?
Being a second semester senior, it is very easy to slack off so a big priority of mine is to finish out undergrad on a strong note. CV is pivotal in helping me achieve this goal by continuing to support me as the organization had been since my first day in college. The routine check-ups from my advisor is certainly helpful in making sure I am moving in the right direction.
Can you describe your favorite CV memory so far?
My favorite CV memory was my visit during the winter break after my first semester in university. I came back to catch up with Emily and during our conversation, I realized how far I had come since the college application process, and how CV had been such an integral part of this growth. Coming back after a semester in university have really made me appreciate CV even more.
How has CV helped you through your college journey so far and are you excited about graduating?
Being a part of CV has provided me with a solid platform to build off of by exposing me to opportunity that I would not have accessed otherwise. Additionally, I believe the support system that CV represents has been instrumental to my college journey. Knowing that there is a group of people cheering me on keeps me motivated, and at the same time, understanding that there are people I can reach out to for input is very comforting.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I am extremely excited for graduation and cannot wait to move to New York!
Congratulations to everyone who will be graduating this year! We are proud of everything you all have accomplished and can’t wait to see what amazing things you all are going to achieve. And thank you to all who make these moments possible!
