How to Network Your Way Into Finance (Even as a Freshman)

Episode 36 | December 8, 2025

In Episode 36 of The Coffee Chat Podcast, host Ben sits down with Stephanie Hockman, founder of Alvista Loop and former investment banker at Bank of America and BNP Paribas. Drawing on 15 years of banking experience and a decade of coaching students at Amherst College, Stephanie shares what she’s learned about the art and strategy of networking.

The conversation focuses on three essentials: the purpose and mindset you need to bring, the tactics you need to employ, and the pitfalls you need to avoid.

1. Networking Is Relationship Building. Not Transactional

“Networking is about building relationships,” Stephanie emphasizes. “It’s not some transaction you’re trying to do.” Too often, students approach networking as a one-off exchange instead of an ongoing relationship. The goal, she explains, is to build genuine trust over time. “Once people trust you, they’re more likely to become mentors, sponsors, or advocates.”When it comes to outreach, Stephanie advises balancing depth and breadth. “It’s both, but always quality over quantity,” she explains. Talking to multiple people across firms helps students explore culture and fit, but the key is cultivating a few deep relationships at each stage.

”Ben adds that the best networkers are those who make multiple positive impressions. “You’re not trying to make someone feel good about themselves,” he says. “You want them to feel good about the interaction, that you’re prepared, thoughtful, and professional.”

2. Quality Over Quantity. But You Need Both

When it comes to outreach, Stephanie advises balancing depth and breadth. “It’s both, but always quality over quantity,” she explains. Talking to multiple people across firms helps students explore culture and fit, but the key is cultivating a few deep relationships at each stage.

“Start broad, but dig deep,” she says.

”Ben agrees: “If you don’t have quality, you’ll never reach quantity. One high-quality conversation often leads to several warm introductions.”

3. Tactics That Work

Stephanie and Ben share practical tactics for standing out:

• Ask specific, thoughtful questions. Avoid generic ones like “What’s the culture like?” Instead, ask, “How does your team differentiate itself when pitching clients?”

• Follow up effectively. Send short updates about milestones (like completing your Financial Modeling Certification® (FMC®) Program) without asking for anything.

• Listen actively. Take notes during conversations and refer back to prior discussions. “Active listening is one of the best ways to show respect and build rapport,” says Stephanie.

• Be curious and genuine. “If you ask for advice, you might get a job,” she adds. “If you ask for a job, you’ll get advice.”

4. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Both guests caution against treating networking as a checklist. Don’t be overly aggressive, inauthentic, or unprepared. Avoid “stupid questions”, the ones that show you haven’t done your research. And never rush to ask for referrals. “That’s presumptuous,” Stephanie notes. “Instead, ask, ‘Is there anyone else at the firm I should be talking to?’”

Ultimately, successful networking is about curiosity, consistency, and professionalism. As Ben puts it, “Networking isn’t about getting something, it’s about learning, connecting, and leaving people with a great impression.”

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