Alumni Profile: Jim Waters

James B. Waters III graduated from St. Norbert College in May of 1995.  He graduated with a Major in Business Administration and a minor in History.  He received his MBA from The University of Chicago Graduate School of Business in 2001.

During his wonderful experiences and time at SNC, Jim was involved with intramurals and independents.  Jim was a member of the PW club while he was on campus.  Even though Jim was involved on campus, he still had time for his studies and creating enduring relationships while he was at SNC.  Jim believes that the most important aspect of his time at SNC was the relationships he formed.  He says, “To this day, the biggest takeaway I have from SNC is the people.”

With connections from Career Services, Jim landed his first job at Kemper Funds in a client service role.  He credits his first job to Career Services in that they sent his resume in a batch to the company when an alum requested resumes. Working for Kemper funds was a great learning experience for Jim.  He learned about the markets, the investment business and his role within the business.  He has been able to build a career based on what he believes to be the understanding of how the business works (versus how a particular job works).  

Currently, Jim works for Goldman Sachs & Co. an investment banking firm in the Investment Management Division.  He says that he is fortunate to work in a constantly challenging, team based environment that pushes him every day to excel and to do more than he ever thought or knew he could!  

From a professional perspective, Jim advises us to, “Challenge yourself, Make an impact on others and their success. Go make opportunities.  Excel.  Work harder than everyone else.  Care for and be passionate about your business, your teammates, and your clients.”

 For future SNC alums and grads, Jim gives three pieces of advice:
1)    Have fun,
2)    Live and dream big, and
3)    In all things, focus on people and relationships.