Students Gain Firsthand Insight into Financial Law Careers During Barclays Visit

In April, students from The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of careers in financial law through a special visit to Barclays’ New York City office. This experience provided students with direct access to professionals working at the intersection of law, finance, compliance, and risk management, reinforcing Arete Education’s commitment to career exploration and real-world learning opportunities.

Upon arriving at Barclays, students were welcomed by members of the legal team and introduced to the wide range of responsibilities attorneys hold within a global financial institution. Through interactive presentations and discussions, students learned how legal professionals help organizations navigate complex regulatory environments while protecting the integrity of financial systems around the world.

Financial Crime Lawyers Sheri Levine-Shea and Virginia “Ginny” Hildreth led an engaging session focused on financial crime prevention. Using real-world examples, they explained how attorneys work alongside compliance teams to identify suspicious activity, investigate potential fraud, and ensure adherence to international regulations. Students were introduced to the challenges of combating financial crime in an increasingly interconnected global economy and explored the important role legal professionals play in safeguarding institutions and clients.

Students also heard from Litigation Attorney Felix Dubosse, who shared insights into managing legal disputes within the financial sector. His presentation highlighted the collaborative nature of legal work, emphasizing the importance of research, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and effective communication. Students gained a greater appreciation for the skills required to navigate complex cases and support decision-making in a fast-moving industry.

The visit concluded with an opportunity to connect with Barclays team member and Arete Board Treasurer Jared Steller, who shared his own professional experiences and guided students on a brief tour of the office. The tour offered students a behind-the-scenes look at the workplace culture and operations of a major global financial institution.

Experiences like this provide students with valuable exposure to diverse careers, helping them connect classroom learning to professional opportunities. By engaging directly with industry leaders, students left with a stronger understanding of the different career paths available within financial law and a clearer picture of the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field.