SWS associates meet Warren Buffett in Omaha
Featured Events | Apr 02, 2014 | Claire Curry
On March 26, 11 Fordham students traveled to Nebraska to represent Fordham University Smart Woman Securities on a three-day trip that culminated in a Q&A session with investment guru Warren Buffett.
Amongst the 47 students chosen across 15 universities to attend this conference, Fordham had the largest representation.
The students enjoyed hearing Mr. Buffett’s insights on life and investing. When asked about the most important takeaway of this session, Leona Lam (GSB ’16) and Christianna Wymbs (GSB ’16) agreed that is was Mr. Buffett’s comments about “taking life as it comes.” He told the students that years ago, he was rejected from Harvard University, a disappointment that was devastating at the time, but ultimately, it led him to meet his mentor, Benjamin Graham. In the end, not getting into Harvard turned out to be the best thing that could have happened to him.
Smart Woman Securities CEO Emily Harman (GSB ’15) and Jane Gannon (GSB ’16) identified with Mr. Buffett’s idea of investing in oneself. Buffett stressed that we are only given one body and one life, so we have a responsibility to take care of and educate ourselves. He also recommended that students emulate those qualities that they admire most in friends and family.
“Having the opportunity to formally meet and dine with an incredible investor and philanthropist is rare, and I’m very fortunate to have experienced this unforgettable trip,” said Nikki de Castro (GSB ’14).
During their time in Nebraska, the students also had the opportunity to visit several Omaha-based and Berkshire-owned companies, including Nebraska Furniture Mart, Oriental Trading Company, ConAgra Foods, Borsheims, TD Ameritrade and Union Pacific Railroad.
“While the company visits and networking events were valuable opportunities, meeting Mr. Buffett, lunch at Piccolo Pete’s and dinner at Gorat’s Steakhouse were the highlights,” said Noelle Brennan (GSB ’15).
This trip was sponsored by Smart Woman Securities National. All SWS associates may apply to be selected to attend the annual trip by the SWS national chair.