A Path to Leadership Anonymous

Newspapers and magazines strewn over the table, heated discussions about the financial markets, and closing prices of the Dow Jones scrawled on post-it notes. One may think that this is an office in a major banking firm, but it’s not—it’s my dinner table. Forming my fondest childhood memories, these discussions were the catalyst of my current passion for finance. I learned a lot of valuable information, but I found myself craving more: I needed to collaborate with a wider audience who shared my passion and who were capable of providing unique insights. This desire for more led to my long-term commitment to Future Investors, a prominent club at my high school. My immersion in this group created the very foundation of the individual I am today: a man of integrity, ambition, and leadership.

Walking through our school’s club fair as a timid freshman, I watched while several clubs were throwing candy to attract new members. I immediately noticed that Future Investors was different: the president, Samuel, was passionately debating with another upperclassman about the benefits of short selling. His enthusiasm and excitement drew me in, and as I shyly joined the debate, I was surprised when he applauded my efforts. It was then that I...