When Justin Nelson, a Tufts University alumnus, sought a summer internship in the finance sector
during his junior year, he faced a daunting challenge. The absence of a
dedicated career network in finance at Tufts meant he had to rely on personal
connections. This struggle, however, laid the groundwork for a future
transformation.
Nelson secured an internship as a web developer at JP Morgan in New York City, a position that blossomed into a
full-time role post-graduation. Holding a degree in chemistry and economics,
Nelson’s career trajectory took him to the private banking division and
eventually to a managing director role in asset management in Greenwich,
Connecticut.
But Nelson didn’t forget his alma mater. Recognizing the potential of Tufts students, he embarked
on a mission in 2006 to make Tufts a core school for JP Morgan’s asset
management group—a status that would bring active recruitment to the
university. Initially, the process was challenging. Justin
Nelson managed travel logistics, collected résumés, and met with students, all without
the backing typically granted to representatives of core schools.
Despite these hurdles, Nelson’s dedication paid off. Over the years, he increased the number
of Tufts interns and employees at JP Morgan, culminating in Tufts being
designated a core school in 2009. This milestone opened doors for many
students, providing them with valuable opportunities in finance.
Jon Trott, a 2010 Tufts graduate, is one such beneficiary. Amid the aftermath of the financial
crisis, Trott secured a summer internship at JP Morgan, thanks to Nelson’s
efforts. Justin Nelson later joined the firm full-time, highlighting
the critical role Nelson played in his career.
Nelson’s initiative has since fostered a robust network of Tufts alumni at JP Morgan, who continue
to support and recruit from their alma mater. Through speaking engagements and
active recruitment, Nelson ensures that the connection between Tufts and JP
Morgan remains strong, benefiting both the students and the firm.
Refer to this article, for additional information.
Learn more about Justin Nelson on https://tfn.tufts.edu/about/advisory-committee/