This past weekend, a group of Hyde students traveled down to NYC to attend an immersion program in finance. They were invited by Hyde alum and former teacher, Michael Cannon '11, now a financial advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management.
The seminars were led by Faiez Ahmed (a financial advisor at Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith Incorporated) and Michael Cannon, who also shared important lessons learned during his Hyde days. He told the students, "I got ahead through mentors, many of whom were at Hyde, and wanted to share some financial lessons with you all while you are young."
During the day, we all listened to sessions on:
- The history of Wall Street and the different parts of the financial world that intersect there.
- The basics of investing
- The psychology of wealth
We were also able to visit an area where active trading was happening.
The Hyde students stood out during the day for their insightful questions and willingness to engage with the topic. Not all of them are interested in a career in the financial industry, but all felt that gaining financial literacy is critical to leadership development. Next year at Hyde, we will expand opportunities to build financial literacy both on campus and with more experiences like this one.
When I asked the students what they learned, their comments showed how much we packed into one day:
Thanks to faculty members Tom Bragg and Laurie Hurd for their willingness to drive so we could attend this event. Also, much thanks to Hyde parents John and Saryna Young and Bill and Renee Hughes for hosting our students and helping make the experience so memorable.
It was certainly a great day of learning!
Laura D. Gauld '76