A 3+1 student at the University of Hartford’s Barney School of Business, Caroline Koziol ’26, M’27 is pursuing a double major in finance and business analytics & managerial economics, with plans to complete both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees by 2027.
“I’ve always enjoyed math and understanding the human behaviors that drive our economy,” she says. “Finance allows me to combine quantitative analysis with strategic decision-making, while economics helps me understand why markets and people behave the way they do. Analytics ties it all together.”
At UHart, Caroline has found numerous ways to turn classroom learning into real-world experience. Through Barney’s professional development programs, she’s earned Bloomberg certifications, competed in case competitions, and participated in investment simulations. These hands-on experiences, she says, have been crucial in preparing for a career in finance.
That preparation is paying off. After interning this past summer at Ironwood Capital, a private equity and mezzanine debt firm in Connecticut, Caroline will take her next big step: a summer internship at Goldman Sachs. Her goal is to turn that opportunity into a full-time role after completing her master’s degree.
“The Barney School’s emphasis on professional growth has been so important to me,” she explains. “The faculty and staff truly care about helping students succeed academically, professionally, and personally.”
Caroline Koziol ’26, M’27, Barney School of BusinessUHart encourages students to get involved in every way—academically, socially, and professionally. Because of that, I’ve grown not only as a student but also as a person ready to take on the business world.
Caroline’s leadership extends well beyond the classroom. As co-president of DECA and portfolio manager for the Investment and Portfolio Management Club, she oversees a $150,000 student-run fund, applying theory to real investments and mentoring peers along the way. Caroline has also participated in corporate visits and networking trips to companies such as Aetna and Mastercard, gaining firsthand insight into the world of finance and connecting with UHart alumni in New York City.
Two mentors have been especially influential in her journey: Celia Lofink, retired DECA advisor, who encouraged her early involvement; and Vivek Sharma, assistant professor of finance, who serves as Caroline’s advisor. “Professor Sharma has guided me through certifications, competitions, and leadership opportunities,” she explains. “He’s played a major role in shaping my confidence and career direction.”
Outside of business, Caroline brings the same focus and discipline to her personal passions. A lifelong competitive swimmer, she continues to compete in open-water races, most recently in Mystic and Block Island. She also practices hot yoga daily, travels widely (recently visiting Italy, France, Morocco, Spain, and Mexico), and enjoys baking in her spare time.
Before starting college, Caroline took a gap year to work as a paralegal, an experience that strengthened her organizational and communication skills—traits that now serve her well in business.
As she looks ahead to graduation and her career in banking, private equity, or asset management, Caroline credits UHart with giving her the confidence, community, and clarity to reach her goals.
“UHart encourages students to get involved in every way—academically, socially, and professionally,” she says. “Because of that, I’ve grown not only as a student but also as a person ready to take on the business world."