James Laquidara '26 MBA: Building a Career in Finance with Whitman’s Support

When James Laquidara '26 MBA set his sights on Syracuse University, he was drawn by the alignment of the Whitman School of Management’s curriculum with his career aspirations. Laquidara saw Whitman as a place where he could grow both academically and professionally, gaining the skills and experiences needed to excel in the finance industry.  

“I specifically chose the Whitman School of Management because of its strong reputation in the finance industry and its emphasis on experiential learning,” he says. This focus has provided him with numerous opportunities to tackle hands-on projects and case studies, sharpening skills directly applicable to his professional career in asset management. 

Currently pursuing his MBA at Whitman, Laquidara credits the curriculum for equipping him with both technical and interpersonal skills essential. “The curriculum in financial and strategic management has been highly practical. It’s provided me with tools like financial analysis, valuation, and strategic decision-making. Beyond that, it has emphasized teamwork and communication, skills essential for building strong professional relationships in the finance industry,” he says. 

Whitman’s collaborative culture has played a pivotal role in Laquidara’s development. The small cohort fosters an environment of close collaboration, helping him refine problem-solving and teamwork skills. This supportive community, combined with Whitman’s emphasis on experiential learning, has prepared him for the challenges of the professional world. 

Laquidara’s academic journey has been further enriched by Whitman’s dedicated faculty and staff, who have supported his growth every step of the way. “My professors have gone above and beyond to offer career guidance and mentorship,” says Laquidara.  

He particularly highlights the efforts of career advisors Linda F. McHugh and Carlos E. Roldan, who provided invaluable resources during his summer 2025 internship search. Their mentorship, coupled with connections to Syracuse alumni, helped Laquidara secure a desirable internship this summer when he will join Bessemer Trust as part of their client advisory team. In this role, he will work alongside client advisors to develop and maintain client relationships, manage accounts, and deliver coordinated services to individuals, families, trusts and foundations.  

Reflecting on his experience at Whitman, Laquidara is confident that the school has prepared him to excel in this new role at Bessemer Trust. “The hands-on projects and case studies have given me confidence in applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. The emphasis on experiential learning ensures that students don’t just learn concepts but understand how to implement them effectively in professional settings. I’m eager to apply the skills and knowledge I’ve gained at Whitman to excel in my internship this summer and make a meaningful contribution to the team at Bessemer Trust.” 

By Bo BenYehuda