From LSU to JP Morgan Chase: Ava’s Journey to Securing a Full-Time Job Before Graduation

Before graduating this May and receiving her degree in economics, Ava Sandoval has already secured a full-time position at JP Morgan Chase, one of the most competitive and prestigious firms in the finance industry. 

Her achievement reflects not only her early preparation and strategic networking but also the strength of LSU’s academic and professional development resources.

What’s Next: Starting a Career in Charlotte

Ava grew up in Park City, Utah, and moved halfway through high school to Alexandria, La. She understood that securing an internship was the fastest track to a job offer before graduation at a blue-chip company, a strategy she learned through family guidance and insights from class speakers.

After she crosses the stage, Ava will move to Charlotte, N.C., to begin her career as a full-time analyst with JP Morgan Chase. 

“Knowing that I have a solid starting point for my career is reassuring,” Ava said. 

Ava will enter JP Morgan Chase’s 2.5-year analyst program, which will shape her career going forward. 

“It provides a broad foundation in corporate banking while allowing me to explore career paths in banking, underwriting, and treasury services, with the option to specialize in a specific industry afterward.”

After completing the program, she can continue in a specific area of finance or pursue graduate school.

From Internship to Full-Time Role

Before Ava secured a full-time position at JP Morgan Chase, she began her journey there as an intern. Recognizing the competitiveness of the finance sector— the company has a 3% intern acceptance rate —Ava started searching for internship opportunities a year and a half before her junior year summer.

Ava’s internship at JP Morgan Chase offered hands-on exposure across multiple areas of finance. She rotated through departments such as credit underwriting, treasury management, and banking. She worked on a range of projects, including assessing financial risks, prospecting potential clients, and shadowing bankers during cold calls.

Ava said she made it a priority to build connections with the people around her, understanding that strong relationships are key to long-term success.

 “During the internship, networking with people in the office is a huge factor for showing how involved you are and helps work toward receiving an offer to return,” Ava said.

LSU’s Impact on Ava’s Success

Ava’s path started with a genuine interest in economics—a field that drew her in thanks to its deep analytical depth and potential career opportunities in corporate finance.

 “I saw the potential in corporate finance to tailor a career to specific interests while still having broad transferable skills,” Ava said.

One of Ava’s favorite classes at LSU was Culture and Economic Prosperity with Professor Naci Mocan.

 “I think after graduation, this is the class I will look back at the most. It’s about different countries’ cultures, what drives them, what influences them, and what impact they have on the economy. It’s relevant to everyday life and the way we function as a society,” Ava said.

Ava said she leveraged LSU’s resources, including the E.J. Ourso College of Business newsletter  and Handshake, the university’s career services platform, to secure her internship. She attended events hosted by various companies and made it a priority to build meaningful professional relationships. Her involvement in the LSU Economics Club further expanded her connections and provided her with valuable opportunities.

“Building connections was key,” Ava says.

Ava said she was able to transition seamlessly from student to a full-time role thanks to LSU’s strong academic foundation.

“My course load at LSU has been rigorous enough to prepare me for what I did during my internship.”  

Beyond academics, Ava found community and lifelong friendships through LSU’s Phi Mu chapter.

"Phi Mu has been the best experience for me. I’ve met my best friends there, I’ve lived in the house, and genuinely love that sisterhood," she said. 

Ava’s Advice

Reflecting on her journey, Ava offers advice to current students and those aspiring to pursue similar paths.

“Being in clubs, going to events, and reaching out to people gives you experience that will help in the long run. Also, be aware of your strengths and weaknesses, but keep an open mind for what you like to do.”

Next Steps

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