The SIE Advantage: How College Students Can Get a Head Start in Finance

As a rising senior at Fordham University, Harmonie Chang’s decision to tackle the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam came as part of an internship project through the SIFMA Invest! partnership with Knopman Marks. What began as a requirement evolved into a genuine interest as she realized how much the SIE could enhance her marketability and broaden her understanding of finance.

“The SIE is incredibly helpful for anyone looking to get a grasp on the financial industry without feeling overwhelmed,” Harmonie, SIFMA Invest! intern explains.

It provided her with an introductory, yet comprehensive overview of finance, ranging from bonds to business conduct rules. For Harmonie, this newfound knowledge has been invaluable in navigating the financial landscape.

SIFMA Invest Scholarship Program: Expanding Access

The SIFMA Invest! Scholarship Program, in partnership with Knopman Marks, is designed to support individuals aspiring to pursue a career in the financial industry by offering scholarships for the SIE exam.

SIFMA Invest! has a mission of connecting SIFMA’s member firms with underrepresented individuals interested in financial careers, and thus increasing
diversity throughout the field. “To help build equity through education, SIFMA has
partnered with FINRA and Knopman Marks to offer scholarships to SIFMA Invest!
students interested in training for the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam, the
mandatory first step to all securities licensing”.

A Broader Perspective: Finance Beyond the Stereotypes

Before the SIE, Harmonie found the finance industry intimidating and somewhat
inaccessible. Taking the SIE and doing so with the help of this scholarship program,
changed this perspective by providing a structured and approachable introduction
to the field.

“The finance industry seemed daunting and distant, but the SIE broke down
complex ideas into more manageable pieces,” Harmonie says.

The SIE also reshaped her understanding of what a career in finance could entail.
Her initial view of finance as a static, unchanging field was challenged during her
internship at SIFMA and interaction with Knopman Marks materials, where she
learned about the active, dynamic nature of the industry.

Study Experience: Balancing Academics and SIE Preparation

Studying for the SIE was an extension of Harmonie’s academic routine, which
proved beneficial. “The structured approach of the Knopman Marks SIE study
materials helped me stay in the academic mindset over the summer,” she notes.
Despite her challenges with online learning during the pandemic, the interactive
and well-organized study materials provided by Knopman Marks made the
preparation process manageable and engaging.

Looking Ahead: Career Aspirations and Industry Insights

As Harmonie approaches the end of her college journey, she believes that the SIE
credential will significantly bolster her resume and enhance her marketability. The
SIE has equipped her with a breadth of knowledge that she feels will be
advantageous in her future career endeavors, whether within finance or beyond.

Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Student Opportunities through the SIE

Reflecting on her experience, Harmonie suggests that more universities promote
the SIE and its benefits. She advocates for partnerships between educational
institutions and organizations like SIFMA and Knopman Marks to provide students
with more opportunities to explore and engage with the financial industry.

“Many students, including myself, were unaware of the SIE until I was introduced to it through this scholarship. Increasing awareness and offering resources in collaboration with schools could make a significant difference,” Harmonie asserts.

Harmonie’s journey with the SIE has enriched her academic and career outlook,
highlighting the importance of making financial education more accessible. Her
experience underscores the value of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and
embracing new opportunities, no matter where one’s academic or career path may
lead.