Samantha Druks ’14: My Invaluable Experience at a Financial Advising Firm

By Samantha Druks ’14

Samantha Druks ’14 (right) interned with John Vaccaro ’66.

During my internship over the summer, I received invaluable experience in the areas of finance and marketing at Westport Resources, Westport, Conn., a leading financial advisory and investment team that combines the major resources of a large company, yet the personal connections and genuine relationships of a small firm.

I had the opportunity to contribute to the firm’s success and to form networking relationships, including being mentored by the company’s CEO, John Vaccaro ’66.

The interns and I were trusted with projects similar to ones that full-time employees complete, and we were an active part of weekly meetings. As an economics major and psychology minor, firsthand experience in such a firm has given me a clearer idea of my career path. I was lucky enough to be a part of a program where communication was a two-way street. As the summer progressed I worked on projects I personally found more interesting, thankfully because everyone cared not only about the quality of my work, but that I was finding it challenging and interesting as well.

I received my Bloomberg certification, conducted in-depth research on companies and industry trends, and wrote financial articles on the firm’s behalf, including “Full House: If Your Recent Grad Has Returned Back Home, You Are Not Alone,” Westport Magazine (September 2013). I presented my major projects to the firm and answered questions.

Having a chance to practice in this way will be invaluable when I begin the job interview process, when I will be expected to comfortably discuss my experiences. The team went above and beyond to ensure that I ended the summer having truly learned from the experience, and I did.

I found this important internship through Career Services. Westport Resources earns top industry rankings for its portfolio management, including recognition by Barron’s for the last four years as one of the “Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors in the U.S.” Their success has not gotten in the way of their values, as they consistently focus on giving back, such as the upcoming Golf Charity Classic this September, which raises funds for local nonprofits across Connecticut.