When Justin Nelson graduated from Tufts University
in 1998, he had already set his sights on a career in finance. Landing an
internship as a web developer at JP Morgan, Nelson quickly transitioned from
intern to a full-time employee. Over the years, he climbed the corporate
ladder, ultimately becoming a managing director in asset management. 

Nelson’s journey, however, wasn’t a solitary one. Justin Nelson recognized the challenges aspiring finance
professionals faced and sought to bridge the gap between academia and the
finance industry. In 2006, he initiated efforts to make Tufts University one of
JP Morgan’s core schools for recruitment. This undertaking ensured that more
students would have direct access to internships and job opportunities at the
prestigious firm. 

Initially, Nelson’s efforts were met with modest success. He frequently traveled to Tufts, meeting
with students and collecting résumés, often funding these trips out of his own
pocket. Despite the lack of initial support from JP Morgan, his dedication paid
off. By 2009, Tufts had become a core school, thanks to Nelson’s tireless
advocacy. 

The impact of Justin Nelson’s work is evident in the success stories of many Tufts alumni.
Jon Trott, who graduated in 2010 with a degree in economics, credits Nelson for
his internship at JP Morgan during the tumultuous financial crisis of 2009.
Trott’s successful internship turned into a full-time position, a testament to
the doors Nelson helped open. 

Today, there is a robust network of Tufts alumni at JP Morgan, many of whom serve on recruiting
committees, screen résumés, and mentor current students. Nelson’s dedication is
not just about filling positions; it’s about fostering a community that supports
and uplifts its members. 

As Nelson reflects on his contributions, he remains focused on encouraging other alumni to
advocate for their alma mater within their respective firms. His commitment to
educational advancement and professional development continues to shape the
paths of many aspiring finance professionals. Visit this
page on LinkedIn, for more information. 

Learn more about Justin Nelson on https://www.ft.com/content/ddb3b6e0-78bd-11ea-9840-1b8019d9a987