These are students who may not otherwise have exposure to the financial services sector or access to professional mentors already working in the industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Black and Latinx workers represent just 7.2% and 7.9%, respectively, of the U.S. securities, investment and commodities workforce.

The CME Group Foundation Scholarship Program provides members of these communities with an opportunity to earn their degrees debt-free, while also offering career development opportunities, like the internship Balogun completed during her senior year.

“I gained a deeper understanding of the derivatives industry and market dynamics," Balogun told Giglio during their taped discussion. "I also learned the importance of data-driven decision-making processes. My managers and supervisors offered a lot of resources, support and guidance.”

But it wasn’t just Balogun’s internship or even her scholarship that helped give her a leg up. She’s also been involved as a volunteer in two other Foundation partner programs – Project Exploration and STEAMbassadors. The first initiative aids K-12 students traditionally underrepresented in STEM, while the second supports college-going 18-24 year olds majoring in science, technology, engineering, art and math.

Balogun started as a youth mentor with Project Exploration, teaching computer science to third through fifth graders. She admits it wasn’t an easy project at first, but by introducing fun and interactive learning activities, the children started to more fully participate.

“I was able to increase their engagement,” Balogun said, “and develop problem solving and innovative thinking skills.” They’re all lessons that she sees as applicable to her future career.

As for STEAMbassadors, Balogun viewed volunteering there as a good opportunity to develop her leadership skills. But the program’s focus on increasing diversity in STEM  resonated with Balogun “as a professional seeking a career in a field which does not have a high representation of people who look like me,” she said.

At UIC, Balogun has continued this mission, serving as the director of student and alumni relations on the executive board for Black Students in Business, where she’s a role model and resource for other students.

Giglio asked Balogun what advice she would give another young person interested in pursuing a similar path.

“My advice would be to reflect on your personal experiences growing up and analyze your strengths and weaknesses,” Balogun said. “Don’t be shy to reach out to mentors in your desired field, and trust in your potential and abilities.”