Q&As - We asked current student, Claire Moore!

Claire Moore is a Class of 2027 Finance major with a Spanish minor.

What inspired you to major in Finance with a minor in Spanish, and how do you see that combination giving you a competitive edge in the industry? 

I have always loved Spanish and began taking it in middle school and high school, so I was excited to continue studying it in college. Especially in Texas and across the United States, there is such a large Spanish-speaking population, and being able to communicate in multiple languages is a huge advantage in the business world. I believe it allows you to build stronger relationships and connect with clients from different backgrounds. 

I chose to major in Finance because it felt like a field that offered so many different opportunities. Finance combines both technical and relational skills, which really appealed to me. I enjoy learning the analytical side of business while also understanding how those skills apply to real people and real-world decision making. 

Can you tell us about your experience working abroad—where you traveled, what your internship involved, and how it influenced your perspective on global finance? 

I participated in the Cox Abroad program in London, where I completed a four-week Advanced Corporate Finance course while also working in an internship. During my time abroad, I interned with Investments & Pensions Europe, a leading publication focused on institutional investing and retirement systems across Europe. I assisted with research related to pension funds, asset managers, and investment trends, and gained exposure to how retirement systems operate across different countries. 

One of the most interesting takeaways was seeing how pension structures in the U.S. differ significantly from those in the U.K. and Europe, particularly in terms of government involvement, long-term funding strategies, and investor priorities. It helped me better understand how regulatory environments and demographics influence financial markets globally. The experience gave me a broader perspective on finance beyond a purely domestic lens and reinforced how interconnected global markets truly are. 

Outside of work and class, traveling throughout Europe was an incredible experience. On weekends we visited places like Edinburgh, Amsterdam, and Ibiza, which made the experience unforgettable! 

You’ve recently accepted an internship with Tolleson Wealth Management—what excites you most about this opportunity, and how did Cox prepare you for this role? 

I am incredibly excited about my upcoming internship with Tolleson Wealth Management because it will allow me to learn more about private banking, especially the credit and lending side of the business. Tolleson is so highly regarded within the Dallas community, and I am excited to learn how firms maintain both exceptional client service and strict confidentiality while managing long-term relationships. 

Cox prepared me extremely well throughout this process. My academic advisor consistently shared opportunities that aligned with my interests and supported me through every stage, from interview preparation to reviewing and signing my offer letter. The Cox Career Management Center is also incredibly accessible and genuinely invested in helping students succeed, which made a huge difference during recruitment. 

Serving on the UHP Student Advisory Board and as President of your sorority requires strong leadership skills—how have these roles complemented your business education? 

Serving on the University Honors Program Student Advisory Board and as President of Kappa Kappa Gamma has strengthened many of the leadership skills I learn about in the classroom. Both roles require communication, problem solving, and the ability to work with people who have different perspectives and priorities. 

As Chapter President, I oversee a large executive team and work closely with university administrators, advisors, and members to make decisions that impact our entire chapter. These experiences have taught me how to lead collaboratively, manage conflict professionally, and think strategically—skills that directly translate to a business environment. 

Who or what has helped you feel most at home on campus, and how has that shaped your time at SMU? 

My friends have truly made SMU feel like home. One thing I love most about SMU is how students come from all over the country. I’m originally from Montgomery, Alabama, and I was nervous coming to campus not knowing many people from my hometown. However, through my sorority and friendships across campus, I’ve built a friend group made up of people from places like California, Connecticut, and Maryland. 

Older students also played a huge role in helping me adjust when I first arrived at SMU. Having mentors as a freshman helped me grow more confident in myself and made navigating college much easier. 

What advice would you give to prospective students about balancing academics, leadership involvement, and career preparation? 

Time management is everything. College should absolutely be fun, and getting involved is one of the best parts of the experience, but it’s important to remember your priorities. Putting academics first creates opportunities later on, whether that’s leadership roles or internships. Finding a balance early and staying organized makes it possible to enjoy everything SMU has to offer while still preparing for your future career. 

Before you go, is there a club, organization, or experience that’s been especially meaningful to you that you’d like to highlight? 

Kappa Kappa Gamma has given me some of my best friends and opportunities during my time at SMU. Serving in leadership roles, including philanthropy involvement, has allowed me to work closely with numerous Dallas nonprofits and national philanthropies. Giving back to the Dallas community that has given me so much has been incredibly meaningful. 

Kappa also provides amazing networking and professional development opportunities through alumni connections across the country, which has been invaluable as I prepare for my career after graduation. I feel incredibly lucky to be part of a sisterhood that will continue long after SMU. 

I would also highlight the Honors College, which creates the perfect balance of academic and social community. It connects students who are motivated and curious while providing faculty support that feels very personal throughout your college experience. 

 Thank you, Claire, for sharing your story! Your drive and leadership shine through, and it’s exciting to see the impact you’re already making at SMU Cox and beyond!