This June, students from Columbia University’s M.P.S. in Wealth Management program traveled to the greater Washington, D.C., area to attend BNY Mellon’s INSITE 2025 conference, an immersive three-day gathering of financial services leaders, innovators, and next-generation advisors. For the third consecutive year, the program was invited to participate in the conference’s INSITE Student Experience, an initiative that fosters connections between emerging talent and leading firms across the wealth management ecosystem.
Senior Program Director Tracy Schwartz accompanied seven students to the event, which featured keynote presentations, networking opportunities, panel discussions, and a vibrant exhibit hall showcasing the latest fintech platforms and industry solutions. “As a mostly online program, it’s especially valuable to spend in-person time with our amazing students,” said Schwartz. “These face-to-face interactions build community, and this experience also keeps us current with cutting-edge trends that we can incorporate into our curriculum and online discussions.”
In addition to providing real-time exposure to next-generation ideas and technologies, the conference offered students the opportunity to build confidence and establish professional connections. The INSITE Student Experience featured a series of curated events for students, including panel discussions, roundtables, and a speed networking session that connected attendees with BNY Mellon’s clients and sponsors. Schwartz participated as a panelist in a session about career paths in wealth management. Carl Findley III, a student in the program, moderated a panel titled What Would I Tell My Younger Self, where professionals shared insights and advice from their career journeys.
“For students exploring their path into the field, particularly those changing careers, these conversations are invaluable,” Schwartz said. “They offer perspective, guidance, and encouragement.”
From Classroom to Conference Floor
Student Steve Calligan, a career changer transitioning into the wealth management field, appreciated the relevance of the conference and the breadth of its networking opportunities. “The topics addressed were timely and highly applicable to what we’re learning in the classroom,” said Calligan. “The keynote from Jesse Itzler on resilience and work-life balance really resonated with me, and the panels on M&A strategy, organic growth, and the evolving role of AI were incredibly informative.” Calligan added that many of the conversations helped him strengthen his communication skills and expand his professional perspective. “We had the chance to connect directly with industry veterans who generously shared their experiences. The energy and openness at the conference made it a powerful learning environment.”
For Bobby DeWees, a student already working in a family wealth advisory practice, the conference offered a broader perspective on how the industry is evolving. He noted the accelerating shift from traditional wirehouse models to independent and hybrid firms that allow advisors to build more flexible, customized practices. “There’s a massive movement toward independence in the wealth management space,” said DeWees. “The conference underscored how critical it is to integrate advanced technologies and AI to better serve clients, and how independent platforms are leading that transformation.” He emphasized the importance of understanding the broader ecosystem of technology providers, compliance partners, and service platforms that support advisory practices today. “It’s no longer just about portfolio management. It’s about constructing the right tech stack and service structure to meet clients’ evolving needs.”
Ken Shen, a business development executive in the private lending space, applauded the conference for helping him bridge his current work with long-term career goals in wealth management. “The experience gave me a better understanding of how all the moving parts in this field come together,” Shen said. “It helped me see how my current expertise fits into the larger wealth planning process and how I can contribute more strategically.” Shen also highlighted the importance of seeing the industry in action, not just in theory. “Meeting professionals face-to-face, hearing their perspectives, and learning how they operate gave me clarity and motivation. This kind of immersive experience is something no textbook or lecture can replicate.”
Connection, Community, and Career Readiness
While the professional development opportunities were substantial, students and faculty alike pointed to the value of simply being together as a cohort. The conference allowed them to connect on a personal level, reflect on their growth, and enjoy the experience beyond the classroom.
One highlight was INSITE at Nite, a closing block party that featured live music and informal networking in a festive, relaxed atmosphere. “Most importantly, I wanted everyone to have a good time and create lasting memories,” said Schwartz. “We definitely accomplished that.” Students returned to Columbia energized and inspired, with a stronger sense of direction and deeper connection to the industry—and to one another.
About the Program
Columbia University’s Master of Professional Studies in Wealth Management is a 16-month online program with asynchronous instruction specially designed to accommodate working professionals. It is taught by distinguished faculty with deep applied experience in their respective fields. Additionally, it is a CFP Board Registered Program designed to help students meet the educational requirement for CFP® certification.
Learn more about the program here.
