A young man from a family of construction workers has set his sights on the bustling financial district of New York City. Henrry Lavariega, inspired by powerful scenes in movies like "The Big Short," aspired to carve out a niche for himself in the world of finance. This first-generation college student, whose father built a successful construction business after immigrating from Mexico, now pursues an ambitious path at Binghamton University. Lavariega is enrolled in the Master of Business Administration 4+1 program and focuses on management information systems and business analytics. His involvement with various university programs and organizations has not only enhanced his academic experience but also prepared him for a promising career in finance.
From Construction Sites to Financial Districts
Lavariega’s journey began with admiration for the influential figures he saw in films about finance. He was captivated by their ability to navigate complex markets and make strategic decisions that could impact economies. Growing up, he witnessed his father build a thriving construction business, which further fueled his ambition. Lavariega knew early on that he wanted to follow a similar path but in the financial sector. At Binghamton University, he found the perfect environment to pursue this dream. Majoring in economics and later joining the School of Management (SOM), Lavariega immersed himself in a curriculum that allowed him to explore various facets of finance, from wealth management to commercial real estate.
The allure of finance lies in its dynamic and multifaceted nature. Lavariega thrives in this environment, where volatility and versatility converge. His academic pursuits have been complemented by hands-on experiences, such as working with SOM professors who specialize in alternative investments and asset management. Through these interactions, he has gained valuable insights into the intricacies of the financial world. Additionally, Lavariega has taken advantage of opportunities to mentor younger students, helping them navigate core subjects like microeconomics and financial accounting. This mentoring role has allowed him to develop leadership skills while reinforcing his own understanding of key concepts.
Building Leadership and Mentorship Skills
Beyond his academic achievements, Lavariega has dedicated time to building leadership and mentorship skills. He actively participates in the Transfer Student Success program, where he mentors sophomore and junior transfer students in both the School of Management and Harpur College. Lavariega emphasizes the importance of seizing every opportunity, regardless of how small it may seem. He advises mentees to start networking early and take full advantage of the resources available through SOM’s Career Services team. Recognizing the competitive nature of the job market, he encourages students to prepare well in advance for future opportunities.
To further enhance his leadership capabilities, Lavariega served as a teaching assistant for a Principles of Microeconomics course, where he honed his public speaking and presentation skills. He has also been involved with the Street Smarts Finance Society, an organization dedicated to career development in the financial services industry. During the spring 2025 semester, Lavariega will gain practical experience by working with a real estate company, focusing on investment properties and project management. While his background differs from that of his family members, Lavariega remains committed to following in his father’s footsteps by putting in the necessary effort to achieve his career goals. He believes that success comes from treading water before diving into bigger opportunities, and he aims to maximize his efforts while contributing to the community around him.