On February 26, 2025, 10th-grade IGNITE Students from John O’Connell High School participated in a Virtual Women in Banking Panel hosted by Piper Sandler, where they had the chance to engage with professionals working in the investment banking industry.
The panel discussion featured Panelists Emily Barnhart-Ross and Anna Kamian, who shared their personal career journeys, advice for students, and insights into the realities of working in finance. Facilitated by Zack Harris, with event support from Sarah Vandenberg, Sarah Cain, and Tech Host Erin Leonard, the conversation offered students a rare glimpse into life in the world of banking and markets.
Students were especially interested when the Panelists discussed their investment partners and shared stories about their pathways to their current roles. They asked thoughtful questions, including what some of their worst job-related decisions were, who their investment partners are, whether they were interested in this type of work in high school, and what skills are needed to work at Piper Sandler.
The Panelists encouraged students to make connections and save contact information for everyone they meet, especially on LinkedIn, because those relationships could be valuable down the line. They emphasized the importance of being open to learning, making the most of their high school years, and developing transferable skills that can open doors in the finance industry.
“I liked the way each presenter had a passion for their roles and for having good communication and relationships with coworkers. I also liked how they gave us high schoolers advice to try new things and use all the opportunities that might come in life. My favorite thing I learned is that STEM connects to many things we look forward to, and we can still do the things we like by trying them out.”
10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to major in finance because it was something I already wanted to do. It also inspired me to try applying to colleges in different states. I learned how important it is to explore different colleges and different STEM opportunities.”
10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me a lot because of the way they work hard and put in so much effort. Something I learned was from their mistakes — that you always need to communicate.”
10th Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
69%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
75%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Additional Student Feedback:
“It made me realize life might not be as hard as it seems. I feel more confident now. My favorite thing I learned was about the different job options.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me to look more into STEM and to follow the advice they gave us. I think my favorite part was when they introduced themselves to us since this was my first STEM event.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event inspired me by showing how banking works, and I’m also interested in learning how to invest. My favorite thing was learning how banking works.” – 10th Grade IGNITE Student
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Sarah Vandenberg
- Sarah Cain
- Erin Leonard
- Zack Harris
- Emily Barnhart-Ross
- Anna Kamian
- Julianna Mululu
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.