Keith Sera ’20 found his passion for economics at University of the Pacific while taking advantage of many opportunities for hands-on experiences, including visits to major employers such as LinkedIn.

Keith Sera ’20 found his passion for economics at University of the Pacific while taking advantage of many opportunities for hands-on experience.

Just one year into his college career, Sera was an intern for Assemblymember Catharine Baker in Sacramento. There he was able to learn about the California legislative system. That same summer, he had the opportunity to participate in the California State Auditor Office’s Externship Program. It was a one-day program that allowed him to experience the operations and culture of the State Auditor’s Office.

“With guidance from the professors in the economics department, my interest in economics has expanded during my time at Pacific,” said Sera. “I would certainly not be in the position that I am today without the help I have received from faculty and Career Services.”

Sera took advantage of career advising in order to improve his resume and LinkedIn profile, and attended multiple Tiger Treks during which he visited employer headquarters to learn more about the company and industry.

“The individuals with Career Services are always willing to help students with the next steps after their time as an undergraduate and it is something that I am incredibly grateful for,” Sera said.

During this past school year, Sera also had the opportunity to be a part of the Eberhardt School of Business Student Investment Fund (SIF), a program where students manage an investment portfolio nearing $3.7 million dollars. By learning more about the different sectors within the market, he developed a deeper passion for finance and found new avenues where his background in finance could complement his skills learned from SIF.

“The Student Investment Fund is one of the most valuable experiences I have had during college,” said Sera.

On campus Sera is a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and Omicron Delta Epsilon honor society, former president of the Interfraternity Council, and founder and former president of the Nikkei Student Union. Through these organizations he was able to promote community involvement and encourage students from all backgrounds to meet each other.

Sera is expected to graduate in December 2020 and is planning to start a career in the finance industry, specifically a job in investing.

“While the idea of being done with school forever is very appealing, I do suspect that I will return to school in pursuits of an MBA further down the road.”