Invested in the future

When Kylea James first arrived at Central Michigan University, she knew she wanted a challenge. She found it in finance. 

“I always liked working with numbers and wanted a major that would be rewarding and push me to grow,” said James, a finance major in the College of Business Administration. “Choosing finance was the right decision, and it’s only become clearer as I’ve gone through my classes.” 

James was drawn to CMU after hearing from alumni who had great experiences and careers after graduation. But it wasn’t just the academics that caught her attention. It was the resources and the people. 

“I loved the spirit here,” she said. “The size of the campus felt right, and I loved that there were real-world learning opportunities like finance competitions and investment challenges that helped prepare us for our careers.” 

Those opportunities have helped shape her college journey and her future. After a wealth management internship and preparing for a corporate financial planning and analysis role this summer in Toledo, Ohio, James has her eyes on securing a finance position with a large corporation after graduation. Her courses at CMU, especially FIN 425 with faculty member Brad Taylor, have laid the foundation. 

“It’s been one of my favorite classes. Dr. Taylor does an amazing job explaining options, futures and hedging strategies,” she said. “It’s the kind of real-world application that makes you excited about what’s next.” 

Beyond the classroom, James is an active voting member of CMU’s Student Managed Investment Fund, where students oversee a $4 million portfolio and pitch investment decisions. She credits the experience with helping her build confidence, meet new people and prepare for a fast-paced finance career. 

Her advice to new students is to get involved early and not be afraid to change directions if something doesn’t feel right. 

“Internships are so important. I wish I had known that from day one,” she said. “Having two is great, but I think I could’ve had even more hands-on experience if I had started earlier.” 

She also emphasizes that learning happens outside of class too. 

“Some of the things I’ll remember most are the student trips led by Dr. Taylor,” she said. “We went to cities like New York and Chicago, visited top finance firms and didn’t pay a dime. Not many students get to say that. It gave us a real sense of what the industry looks like.” 

When school feels overwhelming, James resets by cleaning, something she admits isn’t everyone’s go-to strategy. 

“A clean space gives me a clear mind,” she said with a laugh. “That, and visiting the campus greenhouse. It’s quiet and calming, especially between classes.” 

A typical Monday in James’ life starts at 8 a.m. with work, followed by evening classes and investment meetings that often run until 8 p.m. Despite the packed schedule, she stays motivated by surrounding herself with passionate people. 

“Being part of student organizations makes a huge difference,” she said. “Even when the day’s long, I look forward to meetings where we talk about the market, pitch stocks and connect with friends.” 

With graduation in sight, James is focused on making the most of every opportunity CMU offers. 

“CMU is what you make it,” she said. “If you’re just going to class, you’re missing out. But if you take the time to connect, explore and get involved, there’s so much waiting for you.”