When Antoine Smith ’28, M’29 first arrived at the University of Hartford, he wasn’t entirely sure what his long-term career path would look like. What he did know was that he wanted options and opportunity.
Now a first-year sophomore in Barney's 3+1 program, majoring in the business analytics & managerial economics program, with a minor in finance and a plan to acquire an MBA, Antoine has found a path that blends strategy, numbers, and a passion that began in an unexpected place: video games.
Growing up, Antoine loved games that involved trading systems. Coming from an economically-challenged background, he quickly learned that trading wasn’t just part of the game, but a key to unlocking opportunity.
“In order to get certain items or cosmetics, I had to learn how to trade,” he explains. “It taught me how value works.” That early exposure to bartering and strategy sparked something bigger. During his sophomore year of high school, Antoine was introduced to the stock market--and was hooked.
“It felt like I could take what I learned in games and apply it to real life,” he says. “Since then, I’ve studied the market and built a strong foundation in trading.” At UHart, business analytics offered the versatility he was looking for, while his finance minor allowed him to lean into his newest passion: the markets.
Beyond the classroom, Antoine credits Barney with helping him grow personally and professionally. Through programs like Hawks Take Flight, he learned how to present himself with confidence: how to dress professionally, engage in conversation, and build meaningful connections. “Those Friday mornings taught me how to speak, how to sell my brand, and how to pursue conversations with professionals,” he says. “I walk away from networking events now knowing I’ve made a real connection.”
Faculty and staff have also played a pivotal role in his development. Ja Hannah helped him transition successfully into college life, teaching him essential skills like note-taking, time management, and communication. Dean Ivanic’s mentorship gave him the confidence to sit at tables with executives and envision himself in those spaces. “That guidance helped me see that I belong in those rooms,” Antoine says.
Antoine’s growth isn’t limited to lectures and networking events. He’s currently part of a Barney student team managing a 13–15-week experiential project for Berkley Financial Specialists, where students oversee the full project lifecycle, from kickoff and weekly virtual meetings to a final presentation to the executive team.
“It's a real responsibility,” he says. “We’re learning how to operate in a professional environment before we even graduate.”
Outside of academics, Antoine remains deeply connected to the community. He participates in intramural sports, including soccer and basketball, and plans to add volleyball this semester. On Sundays, he attends church with friends from campus. He also returns to his high school to help coach the boys’ basketball team, giving back to the same community that helped shape him. Even though he lives on campus, home is just ten minutes away—a balance that allows him to recharge, spend time with family, and, in his estimation, stay grounded.
Antoine plans to complete his bachelor’s degree in 2028 and his MBA in 2029, and then hopes to enter the job market. With a foundation in analytics, a passion for finance, and a growing professional network, he’s positioning himself for long-term success. What began as learning to trade virtual items has evolved into mastering real-world markets. Through opportunity, mentorship, and determination, Antoine is turning early lessons in value and strategy into a future defined by growth.
Antoine Smith ’28, M’29, Barney School of BusinessWe’re learning how to operate in a professional environment before we even graduate.