Levi Pettit: The Importance of In-Person Work Experience

Levi Pettit, a finance professional and MBA student at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School, emphasizes the value of in-person work experiences for young professionals entering the finance industry. Despite the recent trend towards remote work, Pettit believes that face-to-face interactions are crucial for career development.

“The young people who want to pursue finance may find that attractive,” he says, referring to remote work opportunities. “They may see older friends or family who have these hybrid jobs, where they can travel or work from home. However, [for an] entry-level job, [they] really should be looking for opportunities where they can be face-to-face with people every single day. That’s where I learned the most — and how I grew the most.”

Pettit argues that being physically present in the workplace offers unique learning opportunities, especially for those just starting their careers. “Unfortunately, I just don’t think remote environments provide that opportunity,” he says. “If I was graduating today, I would try to find something that required me to be in a seat five days a week, and make sure there was some type of team culture.”

He particularly values the chance to observe company leaders in action: “Regularly observing a company’s leaders, making decisions, and performing other tasks can assist with professional development.”

Pettit’s advice extends beyond just showing up to the office. He encourages young professionals to be proactive in their career development: “You’ve got to do it. You have to put yourself out there. Find mentors — I would definitely not be where I am today if it wasn’t for the mentors I have in my life.”

For Pettit, success in finance comes from a combination of formal education, practical experience, and continuous learning. His own career trajectory, from college graduate to investment associate and now MBA student, exemplifies this approach to professional growth in the finance industry.