GWI Alumni Spotlight: Madison Coder
Our Alumni Community spans a variety of states, universities, asset classes, and more, bringing a wealth of varied experiences that strengthen GWI as a whole. Among these exceptional individuals is Madison Coder, a member of the GWI Alumni Class of 2020 and Co-President on the GWI Alumni Council. Read on to discover her GWI story and her advice for those looking to make their mark in the industry.
What motivated you to apply to Girls Who Invest, and what were your career aspirations when you joined the program?
When I learned about the Girls Who Invest program during the summer after my freshman year, I was immediately motivated to apply because of its mission to support women pursuing careers in investment management. I also learned that no women from my university had ever been accepted into the program, which made me even more determined to earn a spot. I spent a significant amount of time researching the program and preparing my application, hoping not only to advance my own career aspirations, but also to pave the way for and mentor other women at my university who were interested in applying in the future. At the time, I knew I wanted to move to New York City and build a career in asset management, and I saw Girls Who Invest as a key opportunity that would help me achieve that goal.
How has the Girls Who Invest community supported your professional development since completing the program?
Since completing my sophomore year GWI program, I have been given multiple opportunities to advance my professional development. Through participating in Investor Circles, connecting with fellow Alumni in the community, and attending panels focused on professional development and career growth, I have continued to deepen my understanding of the industry. Every conversation I have with a GWI Alum has taught me something new, whether it is learning about a career path I had not previously considered or gaining insight into a new firm or area of investing.The Girls Who Invest community has been instrumental in supporting my professional development by creating an environment where learning, mentorship, and connection continue well beyond the summer program itself.
What challenges did you face entering the investment management industry, and how did GWI help you navigate them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced entering the investment management industry was moving to a completely new city where I had no family nearby and only knew my roommate, whom I had met through my internship the previous summer. Starting my career in New York City felt both exciting and intimidating, especially while trying to build a professional network and sense of community in a highly competitive industry. Girls Who Invest helped fill that gap almost immediately by providing opportunities to connect with other women in the industry through regional events, workout classes, community building receptions, and Alumni programming.
If you could travel back to your first days in the Girls Who Invest program, what would you tell your younger self?
If I could go back to my first days in the Girls Who Invest program, I would tell myself to enjoy the present and appreciate each stage of the journey. It is easy to get caught up in the fast-paced and constantly evolving nature of the industry, always focusing on the next milestone or opportunity. Looking back, I would remind myself to pause and recognize how far I had already come.
What advice would you give to current Scholars or individuals considering applying to Girls Who Invest?
My advice to current Scholars or individuals considering applying to Girls Who Invest would be to take full advantage of every opportunity the program offers. Girls Who Invest can be one of the most instrumental experiences during college in helping set you up for long-term success in your career. From the programming and curriculum to the mentorship, professional development opportunities, and Alumni community, the program provides an incredible foundation.
What would you want current Scholars and future program participants to know about the legacy they're becoming part of?
The relationships you build through GWI are invaluable. The women you meet through the program are ambitious, supportive, and incredibly accomplished, and many of them will go on to become leaders across the investment management industry. Being part of a community that is so committed to uplifting and supporting one another is one of the most meaningful aspects of the GWI program.
As the Co-President of the Alumni Council, what does it mean to you to represent the GWI community?
Serving as the Co-President of the Alumni Council is an incredible honor to represent such an inspiring and supportive community. One of the most rewarding parts of the role is being able to highlight the meaningful work the Council is doing to continue uplifting the GWI community and creating opportunities for Alumni and Scholars to connect both within their regions and across the country. I am passionate about helping ensure that the Alumni experience remains just as impactful as the program itself was for us during college. I hope to continue strengthening the sense of community that makes Girls Who Invest so special.
What are some memorable experiences from your time on the Alumni Council?
One of my most memorable experiences on the Alumni Council has been connecting with the Alumni community at the annual conference. Each year, I leave feeling inspired by the incredible women and motivated by the conversations, experiences, and career journeys that are shared throughout the event. The conference has also given me the opportunity to build meaningful friendships with other Alumni across the country. Every year I walk away with new connections, a stronger sense of community, and renewed excitement and motivation for my own career growth and future within the industry.
