The Vault

The Conway Center’s dynamic financial education program offers opportunities for you to not only delve into the personal aspects of money management but also explore the broader influences and challenges affecting financial decisions. We offer classes and other activities through which you will gain an understanding of finance worldwide and discover the social, environmental, and governmental impact that values-based investment decision-making can have.

Ways to Learn

Our aim is to support you in learning how to make your money work for you by offering finance-focused mentoring, workshops, and for-credit classes. You can now examine the political and cultural factors at play in global markets and gain an understanding of how personal investment portfolios can have significant environmental, social and governmental impacts.

GFX 100 Introduction to Global Financial Institutions

Smith faculty, alumnae industry professionals and scholars in the field provide an overview of the financial system and the role of financial institutions in the global economy; domestic and international regulation; domestic and international banking. 1 credit; S/U only.

This course serves as the gateway for the Global Finance Concentration and meets for eight weeks during the first-half of the Fall semester.

ACC 223 Financial Accounting

The course, while using traditional accounting techniques and methodology, focuses on the needs of external users of financial information. The emphasis is on learning how to read, interpret and analyze financial information as a tool to guide investment decisions. Concepts rather than procedures are stressed and class time will be largely devoted to problem solutions and case discussions. A basic knowledge of arithmetic and a familiarity with a spreadsheet program is suggested. 4 credits; not more than four credits in accounting may be counted toward the degree.

Other Courses

  • ECO 230: Urban Economics
  • ECO 238: Inequality and Economic Growth
  • ECO 265: Corporate Finance 
  • ECO 338: Household Finance and Inequality 
  • GOV 232: Comparative Political Economy

Demystifying Money: Foundations

Let’s face it: most people don’t learn or talk about money. The Conway Center aims to change that. Addressing a crucial gap in our education, this workshop series isn’t just about learning to build a secure financial future; it’s about making money conversations comfortable and safe for everyone. We will help you gain practical insights into managing your finances, explore how your money mindset shapes your financial choices, and master the art of making thoughtful money decisions.

Demystifying Money: Investing

As you set your sights on life goals, each with its own financial implications, consider this: investments can be a powerful tool to turn those aspirations into reality. This workshop series will become your compass, guiding you through crucial topics such as distinguishing between investment and speculation, managing costs and risks, and strategically planning for retirement. Acquire the knowledge essential to shaping a secure and prosperous financial that aligns your financial choices with your values and purpose.

Financing Life

In this course, the Conway Center presents an accessible and informative set of topics, videos, and activities to help you improve your financial literacy. The course is taught by Smith College Economics professor emeritus Randall Bartlett. With his eloquent storytelling prowess, Bartlett demystifies financial topics ranging from the time value of money to taxable income, and helps you gain a firm conceptual understanding of personal finance. A strong foundation in financial literacy will empower you to ask the right questions when managing your own financial affairs throughout your life.

Financing life course

Bloomberg Terminal Certifications

As a student entering a rapidly changing economy and geo-political climate, you need every edge you can get. Knowledge of and experience using the Bloomberg Terminal is that edge.

Bloomberg is a terminal-bound financial services platform that provides analysis and quotes for equities (stocks) and indices, global company and economic data, real-time and historical industry and market news, and advanced analytical and data functions. It is the standard in the financial services industry.

Bloomberg Finance Fundamentals (BFF) is a self-paced, interactive e-learning course that provides an introduction to the key concepts involved in finance and investment. Throughout the course, you’ll explore real-life scenarios through the perspectives of various professionals, helping you to manage your money and build an understanding of the different careers available across the finance sector. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete.

Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC), also known as Bloomberg Certification, is a self-paced e-learning course that provides a visual introduction to financial markets and the core functionality of the Bloomberg terminal. It takes approximately eight hours to complete.

The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Certificate offers insights for weaving ESG considerations into business and investment strategies. Delve into the foundational elements of ESG, understand the influence of shareholder activism on corporate practices, navigate ESG management across various corporate life stages, and master the essentials of ESG reporting for companies committed to these fundamental values. It takes approximately 12 hours to complete.

Reserve the Terminal
Peer Mentoring Appointment

Important Note: Since there is only one Bloomberg Terminal, we ask that students use it only during your scheduled time.

Student Spotlight

Sara Ellis ’24

Major: Neuroscience

Financial Literacy Empowerment Fellow, 2023–24

“Becoming a Money Mentor taught me to approach coaching my peers about personal finance with care and compassion. I learned to be open to asking questions and to acknowledge the emotions and feelings that talking about money unleashes. The training helped me be open and honest about my own personal finance journey, realizing that ignoring it or not asking for help will not get me very far. Post-graduation I plan to continue acquiring tools and resources in the hopes that I can launch an initiative to share my knowledge with foster care and at-risk youth in Arizona.”

Financial Literacy Empowerment Fellows

As students, thinking about how you handle your money is likely at the bottom of a very long list of responsibilities. In today’s world, with growing generational wealth inequality, financial literacy is a powerful tool that can change lives. Personal finance is not just about managing your money; it’s about gaining peace of mind knowing that you have the skills needed to make financial decisions with confidence. By learning about personal finance for yourself and gaining the skills to share your knowledge with others, you have the potential to create a ripple effect of positive change in the world.

Smith’s Financial Literacy Empowerment Program—Money Mentors—is a transformative financial education initiative through which you’ll learn the basics of personal finance (budgeting, saving, debt management, and wealth building), discover how to align financial decisions with your life goals, and be empowered to share your knowledge with others. Supported in part by a grant from the Hearst Foundation.

Apply to become a Money Mentor.

  • Applications Open: September 11
  • Applications Close: September 27, 11:59 p.m.
  • Interviews: October 1–October 4
  • Notifications: October 9

Each Fall, Fellows receive training on personal finance topics and learn techniques to become successful peer coaches. Each Spring, Fellows serve as Money Mentors to the campus by leading workshops, hosting events, and offering 1:1 guidance as requested.

Training

Training sessions will be held in the Conway Center classroom, from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. on the following Saturdays: October 26, November 9, December 7, and February 1.*

*Please make your calendar for these and other Key Dates. Students who cannot commit to all training sessions should not apply.

Trainees receive a $500 stipend at the end of the fall semester. Fellows who successfully complete training are hired as Money Mentors and receive a $2,500 stipend paid in equal bi-weekly installments over the course of the spring semester.*

*Money Mentors are not permitted to hold another on-campus job during the spring semester.

Open to all currently enrolled students in good standing. Must be on campus for the 2024–25 academic year. Students graduating before May 2025 are not eligible. Preference is given to students who have attended at least one personal finance workshop offered by the Conway Center.

You must submit an online application for the Financial Literacy Empowerment Fellows program. Select candidates will be invited to the interview round during the week of September 30–October 4. Successful applicants will begin training in October 2024 (see Training dates).

Current Fellows

Chaira Harder ’25

Computer Science major

I am an international student with dual citizenship from Canada and Thailand, with an interest in entrepreneurship and finance! I have a lot of experience navigating my own personal financial goals, and I’m excited to help other students navigate and achieve theirs too.

Chioma Opara ’27

Computer Science and Quantitative Economics major

Financial literacy has long fascinated me and I have had the amazing opportunity to explore what this means in concrete terms through the Conway Center this past year. I’m super excited to share my knowledge with you and to continue learning in my role as a Money Mentor!

Elm Markert ’25

Statistical & Data Sciences major; Biological Sciences minor

I believe that there is no single “correct” way to do personal finance. Each individual has different goals, risk tolerances, and life circumstances. As a Money Mentor, I aim to help you clarify your own goals and ensure information about tools you can use to achieve those goals is accessible.

Faithrose Daniel ’27

Undeclared major

A passionate advocate for social justice and community change, I’m always eager to embrace the world’s diverse stories and perspectives. A lover of travel and new experiences, I find joy in life’s simple pleasures, whether it’s exploring new cuisines or embarking on adventures. To me, financial wellness is about creating a life where money supports your passions and purpose.

Glenvelis Perez ’26

Computer Science and Statistical & Data Sciences major

Learning about finances and spreading the knowledge I’ve gained is incredibly important to me. I’m passionate about connecting with my peers, and I hope to be a helpful resource as we navigate our finances together. I’m looking forward to meeting you all! 

Joberlye Hernandez ’26

Sociology major; Digital Art minor

Originally from NYC and the Dominican Republic, I’m thrilled to be a money mentor this year! I’m passionate about promoting financial literacy, which is crucial to learn but can seem daunting. Whether it’s budgeting, saving, or managing finances, I’m here to help you tackle your concerns. Let’s work together to achieve financial independence and make informed decisions!

Ruth Gomez ’26

Psychology and Neuroscience major

My aim is to learn about financial literacy and expand my knowledge to those around me in the most helpful way. As a first generation, low income student it is important for me to be self-aware of my financial decisions and their impact on my future. With guidance, I am thrilled to be able to help other Smithies as well!

Sabina Ali ’27

Economics and Statistical & Data Sciences major

I have a deep passion for financial literacy. As a Money Mentor, I will work to empower you to build a strong financial foundation and achieve your personal goals. Let’s build a brighter financial future together!

Senior Fellows

Gillian Sanchez ’26

Psychology and Education & Child Studies major

I’ve had concerns and curiosity about money at the back of my mind since I was a child. With this program I’ve gained peace of mind knowing that I have the knowledge and resources to use my money wisely and effectively. I hope to help you feel the same way.

Glory Divine Yougang Tahon ’26

Computer Science and Psychology major

I’m an international student from Cameroon. My goal as a Money Mentor is to help you set clear goals and build good and solid personal finance habits such as budgeting, saving, etc. Join me on this journey as we conquer the complexity of money management together!

Izzy Quinonez ’26

Mathematical Sciences major

What I love about being a Money Mentor is that I can problem-solve with people who need it, and I really enjoy working with numbers. I'm excited to help out in whatever way I can. I like talking about credit, savings accounts, and budgeting.

Lesly Gonzalez Herrera ’25

Computer Science major

Being from Nicaragua, I believe that financial stability is paramount to success. I am committed to helping you understand budgeting, savings, investments, and debt management. My goal is to empower you to make informed financial choices so you can thrive financially and reach your goals.

Mary Ann Martinez Molina AC ’25J

Biological Science major; Exercise & Sports Studies minor

As a Mexican immigrant, personal finance information has often felt like a well-kept secret for only privileged students. I strongly believe this knowledge should be within everyone’s reach. My goal is to inspire you to find ways to level up your money moves and set meaningful goals for the future.

Max Lardschneider ’26

German and Italian Studies major

The topic of money is often a taboo subject, yet it is imperative to address. While I may not always have all the answers, my job is to guide you in setting financial goals and making informed decisions. Financial education is a journey, and I’m excited to be part of yours!