Aki was an Investment Banking Summer Analyst for Piper Sandler during Spring 2025.
Briefly explain what you did and the result of your internship.
This summer, I’ve been working as an investment banking summer analyst, immersed in the fast-paced world of M&A. I’ve contributed to live deals, getting a front-row seat to how negotiations unfold and transactions take shape from start to finish. On the analytical side, I’ve built M&A and public comps, created financial charts for companies in the healthcare sector, and conducted deep-dive research using SEC filings like 10-Ks and 10-Qs.
I’ve sharpened my technical skills—Excel and PowerPoint have become second nature—and I’ve learned how to work under pressure, often staying late into the night to support my team. The bank provides dinner and Uber rides home, which makes the long hours more manageable. Despite the demanding schedule, the experience has been incredibly rewarding. My team is brilliant, kind, and collaborative—we even hang out on weekends, which makes the work environment feel more like a community.
Outside the office, I’ve made time to explore the city, go hiking, play soccer, and catch baseball games. My church congregation has been a grounding part of my summer, full of other interns from across the country. I’ve also managed to stick to a daily gym routine, which keeps me energized.
Overall, this experience has been a deep dive into the world of finance and personal growth. I’ve developed meaningful professional skills, witnessed impactful deals firsthand, and built lasting relationships—all while exploring a new city and making the most of every moment.
What did you learn on your internship that you were not expecting to learn?
How to navigate everything on the computer without my computer mouse! I’ve also learned a lot of shortcuts on the computer that has made me very fast on the laptop!
How have your future plans changed because of what you learned from your internship experience?
I’ve learned of a few new career trajectories that have sparked my interested and I’m excited to learn more about them and possibly intern in these fields in the following school year.
Please share how your experience led to personal inspiration or insightful revelation.
Throughout the internship I’ve learned a lot of small and simple shortcuts or ways to do something much faster than I used to. Majority of the things have always been right in front of me but I haven’t noticed! This made me think how the Lord is constantly trying to teach us the better ways of life now and in the eternities but we sometimes keep ourselves from it although it’s right in front of us.
Would you recommend this internship to other students?
I would 100 percent! The learning curve is very deep here! Everyday you learn something new and then you get to apply it later. You are also given a lot of responsibilities early on and the space to be creative in solving problems and tasks.
Is there anything else you would like to say regarding your internship?
People are kind, caring, and funny here! We work hard but the vibe is always relaxed and fun to be in and everyone is very willing to help.
