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The financial services industry has undergone dramatic changes over the course of the past decade. Technological improvements have revolutionized the nature of virtually every position within the industry. Hundreds of thousands of low-skilled jobs have been consolidated into fewer, more challenging career positions. These changes demand a better-prepared workforce than ever before.
Successful applicants for positions in this highly competitive environment not only possess an overall understanding of economic and global market forces, they must have a knowledge of each of the various industry sectors as well as the ability to utilize technology. Additionally, financial leaders continue to seek employees with the flexibility necessary to excel as market forces continue to change.
As a member program of the National Academy Foundation (NAF), the CISP Academy of Finance has addressed the needs of the financial services industry by providing public high school students throughout the City of Philadelphia with the education required for success in this dynamic industry. Academy students improve the analytical, technical, and communication skills they need to succeed while engaging in activities that enhance their sense of self worth. Through their Academy experience, students gain an understanding of the connections that exist between their education and the workplace as they find themselves looking to their industry mentors and their instructors for the guidance and preparation necessary for rewarding careers.
The Academy of Finance has introduced students to the broad career opportunities in the financial services industry and, in the process, equipped them to make sound choices for their future. The blend of these elements equips students with applicable knowledge, as well as the motivation, self-confidence and sense of personal worth that will catapult them to success.
Students gain firsthand experience in the fascinating and often challenging world of finance by participating in program activities that include the following:
- Attending field trips
- Participating in mentoring and shadowing programs
- Classroom visitations/lectures from local industry leaders
- Attending conferences, tradeshows, and college fairs
The Academies of Finance are offered at the following Philadelphia high schools:
- Bartram Business
- Thomas Edison
- Overbrook
- Roxborough
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