Pursuing a 4+1 MS in Finance Dual-Degree at Drew’s Caspersen School of Graduate Studies
May 2024 – As Drew University’s 2024 Commencement nears, we’re taking a look at where some of our outstanding soon-to-be-grads are headed.
Brian Lavelle C’24, G’25, a business major with a minor in economics, has been a member of the Men’s Baseball team for four years and hosted the 2024 Drew Athletics Award Ceremony. He has participated in Bear Den multiple times, providing him with presenting experience as well as mentoring and networking with alums in the finance industry.
Where he’s headed:
Lavelle is continuing his higher education journey at Drew’s Caspersen School of Graduate Studies, taking advantage of Drew’s 4+1 Finance Dual-Degree. He will earn his bachelor’s and Master of Science in Finance (MFin) degrees in only five years.
“Graduate school was always something I knew I wanted to pursue, but I didn’t know if I wanted to wait a couple years and go back to school or if I wanted to do it immediately after my undergrad. Throughout my undergraduate business studies, I always found myself heavily interested in the finance-based classes. During my junior year, I began to do some research on finance graduate programs, and I got in touch with Steve Firestone, director of the Master of Finance program, who introduced me to the 4+1 Dual-Degree program offered at Drew. As I looked more into the program, it made too much sense for me and my situation. It was cost effective since it gave me the option to start my graduate studies early, it allowed me to take classes that I believe will be most beneficial for my future career, and the personability aspect of it has proved to be invaluable.”
On his time at Drew (so far):
“The professor to student ratio has allowed me to really get to know my professors and fellow peers on a personal level. I have been able to pick my professors’ brains and learn about their career experiences in the financial industry, which I believe will better prepare me for the challenges and obstacles I will eventually have to overcome in my career.”
On his plans beyond Drew:
“After Drew, I intend to continue pursuing a career in the mortgage industry. Since May 2023, I’ve been working as a licensed mortgage loan officer. At the age of 18, I was fortunate to be taken under the wing of some remarkable mentors who offered me an opportunity to begin a career in mortgages. I saw it as a chance to learn, and I embraced it wholeheartedly. Fast forward four years, I am still with the same company, Absolute Home Mortgage Corp., and I intend to continue working with them post-graduation. Working in various roles within the company and collaborating with numerous individuals provided me with valuable insights into my desired career path. I developed a passion for helping individuals and navigating the uniqueness of their financial situations. In the long term, my plan is to continue learning and advancing within this industry, with the ultimate goal of attaining an executive leadership position.”
