Trailblazing Student Sophie Scherer Rings Nasdaq Bell—and Shatters Barriers for Women in Finance

Sophie Scherer Rings Nasdaq Bell, Ignites New Era for Women in Wall Street’s Fast Lane

NC State senior Sophie Scherer takes center stage on Wall Street, driving diversity in finance and inspiring a new generation of leaders.

Rising NC State senior Sophie Scherer just made headlines on the world’s biggest financial stage—ringing the closing bell at Nasdaq as a high-achieving student, burgeoning investor, and passionate advocate for women in finance. Her journey reflects the fast-changing face of Wall Street and signals fresh hope and opportunity for the next generation.

Sophie, a double major in computer science and finance with a minor in Spanish, stood beneath the Nasdaq spotlight beside the accomplished alumni of Girls Who Invest—marking a decade of trailblazing progress for young women in investing. For Sophie, the moment capped years of focus and grit—and opened new doors for students nationwide.

How Did a College Senior Get to Ring the Nasdaq Closing Bell?

Sophie’s interest in finance was sparked early—her father introduced her to options trading, setting off a passion that would flourish at NC State’s Poole College of Management. She found inspiration after meeting an alum working in the trading world: That pivotal encounter revealed the possibilities of a career blending computer science with high-stakes investing.

Now, as managing director of Bell Tower Capital Management, Sophie leads a student team overseeing a $200,000 real investment portfolio. She also co-founded the university’s first-ever Quantitative Finance Club, offering undergrads a space to explore data-driven investing and complex risk strategies.

Her commitment and leadership earned her the invitation to Nasdaq as part of Girls Who Invest’s 10th anniversary, standing with other female powerhouses who are redefining a once male-dominated industry.

Q&A: Sophie’s Formula for Success in Finance

Q: What was it like to ring the closing bell at Nasdaq?
Sophie described the event as unforgettable—a vivid reminder of how far the finance world has come and of the immense opportunities opening up for young women everywhere.

Q: How do you prepare for Wall Street’s toughest challenges?
Sophie highlights intentional preparation: building technical skills, networking widely, and learning from books like “Heard on the Street” and “Thinking in Bets.” She credits her network of mentors, professors, and peers for propelling her forward.

Q: What advice does Sophie have for aspiring finance students?
Start early, reach out boldly, and never let a nontraditional background hold you back. Just one conversation can shape your entire career. Sophie encourages students to pay it forward, opening doors for the next generation.

How to Land a Quant Trading Role Before Graduation

1. Sharpen Your Technical Skills: Dive into math, programming, and finance courses. Build personal projects that show your mastery.

2. Network Relentlessly: Attend industry events, connect with alumni, and seek advice from professionals—just as Sophie did.

3. Join or Start Campus Organizations: Lead or participate in student-run investment funds or clubs. These experiences are career-launching springboards.

4. Prepare for Interviews: Practice with real trading problems, competitions, and technical interview questions. Resources from Citadel and Bloomberg can offer key insights.

5. Stay Inspired and Give Back: Read, mentor others, and champion inclusivity in finance as the industry continues to evolve.

What’s Next for Sophie in 2025?

This summer, Sophie will intern at Citadel Securities, a global leader in trading and market making. There, she’ll collaborate on quantitative projects, strategize with top analysts, and pitch trade ideas in real-world, high-speed simulations.

Looking ahead, Sophie’s aim is clear: Continue breaking barriers, inspire others from all backgrounds to dream big, and pay forward the support she received at NC State and Girls Who Invest.

Ready to Break Into the Fast-Growing World of Quant Finance?

• Get early exposure to investing and tech—don’t wait for graduation
• Network with alumni and industry champions
• Join or lead campus finance and tech organizations
• Practice technical and behavioral interview skills
• Believe in your unique path—then pave the way for others