Summer Intern Spotlight: Penelope Gallardo 25BBA
Every summer, Goizueta Business School students from all programs step out of the classroom and into internships at companies around the world. These experiences are not just about gaining practical skills; they often lead to lasting memories, powerful insights, and sometimes even job offers.
In this series, we’ll highlight several students who completed exciting internships this summer, sharing their journeys, challenges, and triumphs. Stay tuned to discover the incredible work our students have been involved in and the valuable lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Here, we speak with Penelope Gallardo 25BBA who interned this summer at Cambridge Associates.
Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to pursue an internship in asset management at Cambridge Associates?
I’m currently a rising senior double majoring in Business Administration and Computer Science. What drew me into finance was doing the Girls Who Invest Summer Intensive Program, where I was given the opportunity to explore the buy-side. Through that, I discovered I was interested in asset management.
What particularly drew me to Cambridge Associates was its reputation as a global leader in institutional investing with over 50 years of experience. The opportunity to gain exposure to various asset classes and investment strategies across different client types was extremely appealing to me. Additionally, Cambridge Associates’ collaborative culture and emphasis on mentorship stood out from other programs, as I wanted a chance to work directly with experienced Investment Analysts and Directors, providing me invaluable learning opportunities.
What were your main responsibilities during your internship at Cambridge Associates, and what did a typical day look like for you?
During my internship at Cambridge Associates as a Summer Analyst, I had the opportunity to engage in a variety of responsibilities. These provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the investment consulting industry. My main responsibilities included:
- Research and Analysis, where I conducted in-depth research on various asset classes, market trends, and economic indicators. This involved analyzing financial statements, market reports, and other relevant data to support investment recommendations.
- Portfolio Management Support, where I assisted in the preparation of client presentations and reports. This included performance analysis, asset allocation reviews, and risk assessments. I also helped in updating and maintaining client portfolios.
- Manager meetings, where I participated in regular meetings with investment managers, diligently taking detailed notes on discussions, strategies, and key decisions to ensure accurate documentation and facilitate follow-up actions.
- I was responsible for gathering and organizing data from multiple sources, ensuring its accuracy and relevance. This data was used to create detailed reports and presentations for both internal and client use.
- Although my direct interaction with clients was limited, I participated in internal meetings where client strategies and recommendations were discussed. This provided me with valuable insights into client relationship management and the decision-making process.
- I worked on several special projects, including developing investment models and conducting scenario analyses. These projects allowed me to apply my analytical skills and contribute to the firm’s strategic initiatives.
Can you share a specific project you worked on during your internship that you’re particularly proud of? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
One of the projects I am particularly proud of during my internship at Cambridge Associates was an in-depth analysis of Bitcoin and its potential role in institutional portfolios. This project was both challenging and rewarding, providing me with a unique opportunity to delve into the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrencies.
The objective of the project was to evaluate the viability of including Bitcoin as an alternative asset class in institutional investment portfolios. This involved assessing its historical performance, volatility, correlation with traditional asset classes, and potential risks and benefits.
Bitcoin is known for its high volatility, which posed a challenge in terms of risk assessment. Understanding and quantifying this volatility in the context of a diversified portfolio required careful analysis and the use of advanced statistical methods. To assess Bitcoin’s volatility and its impact on portfolio performance, I employed various statistical models which helped in quantifying the potential risks and benefits of including Bitcoin in a portfolio.
The final deliverable was a comprehensive report that provided a detailed analysis of Bitcoin’s potential role in institutional portfolios. The report was well-received by my team and contributed to ongoing discussions about alternative investments at Cambridge Associates. It provided valuable insights that helped in shaping the firm’s perspective on cryptocurrencies and their potential inclusion in client portfolios.
Overall, this project was a significant learning experience that allowed me to apply my analytical skills to a cutting-edge topic. It also demonstrated my ability to tackle complex challenges and deliver meaningful insights, which I believe will be valuable in my future career.
How did you find the work culture at Cambridge Associates, and how did it compare to your previous experiences?
I found the work culture at Cambridge Associates to be incredibly supportive, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating. The firm fosters an environment where continuous learning and professional growth are highly encouraged, which was a significant factor in my positive experience.
One of the standout features of Cambridge Associates’ work culture is the emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. Colleagues are always willing to share their knowledge and expertise, and there is a strong sense of camaraderie. This collaborative spirit made it easy to seek guidance and feedback, which was invaluable for my development. The firm also has a strong commitment to delivering high-quality work and maintaining rigorous standards. This dedication to excellence was evident in every project and task, and it motivated me to strive for the best in my contributions.
In comparison to some of my previous experiences, Cambridge Associates provided extensive resources across all asset classes, including proprietary research, market data, and analytical tools. This access enabled me to perform more thorough and informed analyses, enhancing the quality of my work.
What skills or knowledge did you gain during your internship that you believe will be most valuable in your future career?
During my internship, I gained a deep understanding of various asset classes, including equities, fixed income, real assets, and alternative investments. This comprehensive knowledge will enable me to develop well-rounded investment strategies and provide diversified portfolio recommendations. Also, my experience conducting in-depth research on market trends, economic indicators, and specific investment opportunities has significantly improved my research skills. This proficiency is crucial for staying informed and making data-driven decisions in the finance industry.
I honed my ability to analyze complex financial data and market trends. This included using various analytical tools and techniques to evaluate investment opportunities and risks. These skills are essential for making informed investment decisions and providing sound financial advice. In addition, I learned the intricacies of portfolio management, including asset allocation, performance analysis, and risk assessment. This knowledge is fundamental for managing client portfolios effectively and achieving their investment objectives.
The dynamic nature of the finance industry required me to be adaptable and think critically to solve problems. This experience has prepared me to navigate challenges and uncertainties effectively in my future career. I am confident that these experiences will enable me to contribute meaningfully to any future role I undertake.
What advice would you give to other Goizueta students who are interested in pursuing an internship with a leading company like Cambridge Associates?
For Goizueta students interested in pursuing an internship with a leading company like Cambridge Associates, I would tell them to have a solid understanding of fundamental financial concepts, including asset classes, portfolio management, and financial analysis. I would also advise them to take relevant courses and seek out opportunities to apply their knowledge through projects or case competitions.
It is also important to stay informed about market trends. They should keep up to date with the latest market trends, economic indicators, and industry news as this will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field during interviews and networking events.
Make sure to leverage Goizueta’s alumni network and attend industry events, career fairs, and networking sessions. Building relationships with professionals in the field can provide valuable guidance, mentorship, and potential job leads.
Remember, preparation, persistence, and a genuine passion for the field are key to securing a successful internship!
Could you share any memorable experiences or interactions with colleagues or mentors during your time at Cambridge Associates that had a significant impact on you?
One of the most memorable experiences during my internship at Cambridge Associates was working closely with Trevor, an Investment Director, on the Bitcoin project. His guidance and mentorship had a significant impact on my professional development and the success of the project.
When I was assigned the Bitcoin project, Trevor took the time to sit down with me and outline the project’s objectives, scope, and key deliverables. His clear and detailed explanation helped me understand the importance of the project and set the stage for a successful execution.
Throughout the project, Trevor scheduled regular check-ins to review my progress and provide constructive feedback. These sessions were incredibly valuable as they allowed me to refine my analysis, address any challenges, and stay on track with the project timeline. He generously shared his extensive knowledge of cryptocurrencies and the broader financial markets. He provided me with access to various research reports, analytical tools, and data sources that were instrumental in conducting a thorough analysis of Bitcoin.
When it came time to present the final report, Trevor helped me prepare a compelling and well-structured presentation. His supportive and encouraging demeanor played a crucial role in boosting my confidence. He always made me feel comfortable asking questions and seeking clarification, which fostered a positive learning environment. His belief in my abilities motivated me to push my limits and deliver my best work.
This experience for me reinforced the importance of having supportive and knowledgeable colleagues who are willing to invest in your growth and development.
What are your future career aspirations, and how has this internship influenced your career path?
My future career aspirations are centered around becoming a leading investment professional with a focus on portfolio management and strategic asset allocation. I am passionate about helping clients achieve their financial goals through well-informed investment strategies and sound financial advice.
I aspire to become a portfolio manager, where I can leverage my analytical skills and market knowledge to design and manage diversified investment portfolios. I aim to develop expertise in asset allocation, risk management, and performance analysis to deliver optimal results for clients.
I am committed to continuous learning and professional development. I plan to pursue advanced certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation to enhance my knowledge and credentials in the investment industry.
My internship provided me with a comprehensive understanding of various asset classes which has reinforced my interest in portfolio management. Working with advanced analytical tools and financial models during my internship has equipped me with practical skills that are essential for a career in investment management. I also gained confidence in using these tools to conduct in-depth research and analysis.
I am excited about the future and look forward to making meaningful contributions to the field!
Explore more exciting student internships and the experiences that shaped their summer! Discover more here.
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