The paths to Wall Street success: Where 25 rising stars went to school and started their careers
Business Insider's 2026 Rising Stars of Wall Street are a diverse group. See where they went to college and where they got their start.
This year's list of 25 rising stars on Wall Street comes from diverse academic backgrounds and professional journeys. Eleven of the leaders attended Ivy League universities, marking a significant increase from the previous year's class. The group spans various disciplines, with a notable number pursuing degrees in economics, finance, and business.
After graduation, the majority began their careers at major financial institutions like Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, and Bank of America. However, unconventional paths are also present, with some members opting for hedge funds, private equity, or specializing in artificial intelligence. New York City continues to be the hub for most of these professionals, with 20 out of 25 working in the city.
The average age of the class ranges from 27 to 35, with three individuals under 30, including Theo Saarinen, the chief research officer at AIA Labs within Bridgewater Associates.
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