Alumni Spotlight: Rowen Fletcher, Master of Science in Finance

Eller alumni Rowen Fletcher '22 (Finance) is a student at the Eller College of Management – Master of Science in Finance.

Why did you choose to pursue a Master’s Degree?

I chose to pursue a Master’s Degree for several reasons. First and foremost, I wanted to advance my education and gain expertise in the field of finance. I felt like it was a great opportunity to do so at the Eller College of Management since I had already worked with many faculty and knew my away around campus.

Another factor that played a role in my decision was the timing of the pandemic. Fortunately, I was able to complete my undergraduate degree in three years. However, I felt like I did not get the complete experience and I wanted to spend one more year at the University of Arizona. The faculty at the Eller College of Management did a tremendous job supporting me through the process and making it a smooth transition.

What do you enjoy most about the Master’s Program?

My favorite part of the Master’s Program is the sense of community amongst the students. The rigorous coursework and constant pursuit to land full-time jobs creates a sense of unity. I am so glad I have a group of peers that has supported me through the process.

What advice do you have for Eller students seeking a similar career path?

My advice for Eller students regardless of the career path you are pursuing is to be involved on campus and network as much as you can. I believe it is important for business students to join a professional organization on campus. This allows you to surround yourself with a group of likeminded individuals while developing the skills to succeed in your career. Fortunately, the Eller College of Management has many options when it comes to professional development programs.

Networking can not only be a valuable experience, but also a skill that must be developed to have tangible results. Connecting with a professional in an industry you are interested in will allow you to fully understand the roles, responsibilities, and progression in that field. However, maintaining a relationship with that individual will result in future internships and full-time opportunities. In the finance industry, very rarely will you talk to someone one time and they will refer you to an internship or job. However if you’ve maintained a relationship with someone since your freshman year and they have been a part of your academic and professional journey, I believe they are much more likely to create opportunity for you.

With that being said, networking does not have to be with professionals in an industry of interest. Every day when you show up to class or in clubs is an opportunity to network. Get to know your fellow classmates because they are the connections you will have throughout your career.

Please share an Eller memory.

One day in Eller I will never forget is the first day of classes in the Fall ’21 semester. Prior to this I had completely the second half of my freshman year, my entire sophomore year, and the first semester in Eller’s upper division in a virtual environment. Walking into Eller on that first day I saw a dozen people I had met virtually before I even reached the doors by Ike’s. I ran into more people that day than I probably had during my first two years at the University of Arizona. It was a very special moment.

This experience taught me to never take the small interactions for granted. I was lucky to meet a lot of people through my involvement in Eller Impact, the Wall Street Scholars Program, the Eller College Dean’s Council, and my classes. The small conversations you have before and after classes or club meetings are where you truly build relationships and get to know people.