How Bentley Scholarships Power Future Finance Leaders
Scholarships help students like James Mullen ’25, an Economics-Finance major, thrive at Bentley and beyond. He led a student organization, connected with mentors and studied abroad. And, he says that opportunities provided through Bentley’s Pulsifer Career Development Center helped him secure a role as a financial analyst in Aptiv’s Finance Leadership Development Program after graduation. The competitive rotational program involves three 12-month assignments across various finance functions.
Here, Mullen looks back on some of his Bentley highlights — and expresses gratitude to donors who support Bentley students.
Can you share a specific moment or achievement during your Bentley experience that you’re particularly proud of?
In my junior year, I was elected president of the Real Estate Group. Seeing the club grow from just a few members in my freshman year to leading an overflowing room at our first general body meeting was a surreal experience.
What has been your favorite class you’ve taken and why?
My favorite class at Bentley has been Real Estate Investment Decisions [FI318]. Professor [Dana] Harrell brings decades of real-world experience to the classroom, mixed with a remarkable enthusiasm for teaching real estate. Someday, I’d like to invest in commercial property, and this course was a huge stepping stone in understanding the process of doing so.
Who has your favorite mentor been and why?
I wouldn’t say that I have a traditional mentor. With that said, Bentley faculty, career services and even my peers have acted as mentors at different points in my Bentley career. At each level, from freshman to senior year, I always felt like there was somebody I could fall back on to get advice from or ask questions.
What is one opportunity being at Bentley has given you?
Post-graduation, I’ll be joining Aptiv’s Finance Leadership Development Program as a financial analyst, a role I secured through an on-campus recruitment opportunity through the Pulsifer Career Development Center. Through the rotational program, I’ll gain exposure to a variety of finance functions and geographies across a leading global automotive technology company.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to a future Bentley student?
Put in the work during your freshman year. Meet people, join clubs, get a good GPA and look for internship opportunities early. Having a solid base in your freshman year will set you up for the rest of your college career.
What will you miss most about Bentley?
The community. I’ve come to know so many wonderful people over these past few years who I know will continue to do great things in their lives.
Is there anything else you would like to add about your Bentley experience?
Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, is one of the richest opportunities I have taken advantage of. The independence and perspectives I gained were undoubtedly invaluable and something I will hold on to for the rest of my life. Overall, I couldn’t have asked for a better college experience.
To all donors, making education accessible truly changes the trajectories of students’ lives. You’re making a real impact on students like me. Thank you!