Jingru Zhao
Women’s Alliance Member
Student, Wellesley College
Quick 10:
#1 In 2–3 sentences, share your year in school, your college or university, your major, and what you hope to do after graduation.
I’m a double major in Physics and Economics at Wellesley College. I’m in my second year and currently learning more about investment management. After graduation, I want to work in an investing role that lets me interact directly with clients (HNW/institutional) to understand their risk profile and investment objectives.
#2 Share one goal you’re working toward right now, big or small.
A goal of mine is to write a senior thesis! Right now I’m interested in the role of market simulations and what happens as AI becomes increasingly used in investment decision-making.
#3 Describe one experience, class, or conversation that has shaped how you think about your future.
I’ve always been a planner, wanting to figure out everything beforehand and fearing uncertainty. After a conversation with my mentor (who might not even think of herself as a mentor), I realized uncertainty is what makes life so interesting; so instead of fearing the future and all these changes with AI, I’m now embracing the discovery phase since spontaneity yields adaptability!
#4 What drew you to the Women’s Alliance member community, and how does it support you as a student?
This past summer, the Women’s Alliance sponsored my participation in the Externship program, where I learned a lot about the financial advising profession, gained exposure to software, and earned credits toward the CFP. I’m also incredibly grateful for the mentorship circles where I got to meet and hear the experiences of current professionals!
#5 What’s one way a female has positively influenced your professional or personal growth?
When I was at the AI-Powered Women conference, I realized just how powerful female representation in leadership is, I think there’s a power in seeing yourself in someone else and overcoming my beliefs of my own constraints. There are just so many ways other women have influenced me (via 1-1 chats, speeches, writing, opportunity outreach) on a personal and professional level I can’t just pick one.
#6 What unexpected skill, hobby, or practice brings you joy right now?
I’ve been teaching/coaching across English as a second language, math, sailing, crew for around 7 years now and although I’m no longer directly teaching classes, I continue to mentor my previous students and recently joined MIT’s Cascade initiative. I think teaching has been one of the most rewarding experiences that always makes me happy about the impact I play in my communities.
#7 Describe a unique strength or superpower you have that rarely shows up on a résumé.
I’ve always been more of a listener, I never used to think this was a strength in a world that seems to reward self-presentation. Over time, I’ve realized that it’s a valuable skill that’s helped me present relevant information and operate with confidence in context.
#8 What’s a daily or weekly ritual you rely on to feel grounded?
Every morning I make coffee for my roommate and I; it’s a small habit that gets me up (and awake) before a busy day.
#8=9 Share your three all-time favorite books.
The Physics of Wall Street, The Count of Monte Cristo, and Nexus.
#10 If you could host a themed girls’ night, what would the theme be?
Food boards & board games – Board night!
