By Joseph Aubert – Economics & Business Editor

Bishop’s students considering a career in finance will have the opportunity to connect with some of the industry’s players on March 27, when CFA Montréal hosts its annual Discovery Day in Finance at the Palais des congrès.

The bilingual event, aimed at university students and recent graduates across Quebec, offers a full day of networking, learning and career exploration in the heart of Montreal’s financial district. For those looking to better understand the inner workings of the finance industry, and what roles may suit their interests and skills, Discovery Day is designed to be a meaningful first step.

Participants will be welcomed into a professional setting where they can interact directly with representatives from major firms in banking, asset management, investment consulting and financial services. A career fair-style layout will allow students to visit individual booths, ask questions and gain insight into company culture, internship opportunities and entry-level pathways.

The centrepiece of the day will be a conference and panel featuring professionals from across the finance industry. Though the full lineup of speakers has not yet been announced, past editions have included CFA charterholders and industry veterans who share their experiences and advice on entering a competitive and rapidly evolving field. Topics typically range from portfolio management and ESG investing to private equity and FinTech disruption.

For students at a smaller university like Bishop’s, the event offers a rare chance to engage directly with Montreal’s finance ecosystem, which includes major institutional investors such as the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, large private firms like Fiera Capital, and banks including National Bank and Desjardins. Exposure to these institutions can help students understand how financial theory translates into real-world decision-making and strategy.

In addition to learning about different roles in finance, attendees will gain insight into the CFA designation itself. The Chartered Financial Analyst credential, known for its rigour and global recognition, remains a sought-after qualification for professionals in investment-related roles. CFA Montréal will be present to answer questions about the program’s structure, requirements and long-term benefits.

Networking opportunities are embedded throughout the day, and students are encouraged to come prepared with questions and résumés. A limited number of lunch tables will also be hosted by finance professionals, offering a more intimate setting for one-on-one conversations. Though spots for the lunch are first come, first served, the event remains free to attend for students.

For those unsure of their specific career interests, Discovery Day is also a space to explore the broad scope of the financial world. Whether your interests lie in risk analysis, sustainable investing, corporate finance or emerging technologies, the event provides a platform to discover the range of possibilities that exist within the industry.

Bishop’s students interested in attending must register in advance through the CFA Montréal website. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with all activities taking place at the Palais des congrès de Montréal.

With graduation approaching for many and summer internships on the horizon, Discovery Day offers a well-timed opportunity to make connections, gather information and gain confidence in navigating the next steps toward a finance career.