| Paul Wirth Nicholas 2008 |
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| Ameriprise |
How did you find out about the Nicholas Center?
While I was in Houston, Dean Knetter made a visit shortly after assuming his duties. The purpose was to introduce himself and to tout two new centers that had been established. One was the Nicholas Center for Corporate Finance and Investment Banking. I had been thinking superficially about making a change. When I heard about the Nicholas program, I became interested. As the opportunity arose for me to consider graduate school, I knew I wanted to apply here.
Why did you choose to come to Wisconsin and the Nicholas program?
I chose four schools I was interested in, applied to three, was accepted at two, and chose UW. I knew it involved "packing up the family and moving to Wisconsin" so to speak, so it was not a decision my wife, Nicole or I took lightly. However, the school was clearly underrated in my view, having recruited actuarial students from here over the years. I also knew the practical side of the Nicholas program would set it apart from other programs. When I considered all things, it was clearly the best choice among schools. It was just a matter of making the move. Fortunately, I am blessed with a wonderful wife who was completely supportive of the decision.
What are your career objectives?
It's ironic, we're supposed to know that when we apply. Right now I would answer the question this way:
- Private Placements,
- Corporate Finance, or
- Leadership Development Programs
I'm pretty much all over the map right now. I think the best way to leverage my background would be in private placements for a large insurance company. However, the Nicholas Center has great ties in corporate finance, as it is designed to do. Finally, the School of Business seems to have strong ties to some leadership programs. Nicholas alumni are in some of those positions. If I get the opportunity to do some broad-based financial analysis, I'll be happy. To that end, I am more interested in the right position in a good company than in location. The exciting part is that the program and the school set a candidate up to have access to a great many opportunities.
What have you found most surprising about Madison?
The biggest surprise for me continues to be how much has physically changed since I was a student here. Construction appears to be the business to be in if you are in Madison, but that's progress. It's good that the university continually makes the effort to have the most contemporary tools for faculty, staff, and students, and our own Grainger Hall is a perfect example with the ongoing expansion. In 10 years, I'll be amazed again at how much has changed, all for the better.
What would you like to have known before coming to Madison?
Where to park. Period.
What are you looking for in your internship?
Exposure to one of the areas mentioned above as career paths. Few companies have internships in leadership development, so right now the top area I am focusing on is corporate finance. There appear to be a good number of opportunities for candidates for this coming summer. Let's hope that continues through the next few years. I think we've got the economy on our side. Besides, as word spreads about the Nicholas Center, we will have more access to positions around the country and abroad. That's good news for Nicholas students.
More Featured Alumni Interviews |
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| Sheldon Liu (2006) | Rachel Nielsen (2006) | ||