Lucas Harris
Analyst, Goldman Sachs
B.A. in Business Administration, Concentration in Finance, Minor in Accountancy (2025)
Lucas Harris is a proud graduate of UIS. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and a minor in Accountancy in 2025. While at UIS, he played on the men’s soccer team, served on the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and worked at the Student Union as a senior lead.
Lucas graduated summa cum laude, and began working as an analyst at Goldman Sachs in the Asset and Wealth Management operations division.
Why UIS?
As a student-athlete, Lucas’s interest in UIS stemmed from recruitment to play soccer. But when he saw UIS was part of the University of Illinois system, he was confident in the quality of education. After visiting campus, he realized he liked the small class sizes and how approachable professors were.
“[UIS] created an environment where I felt comfortable asking questions and seeking support when needed, which really improved my learning experience.”
In addition to the academic reputation and athletic opportunities, UIS was also an affordable option in Lucas’ college search. He took advantage of many scholarship opportunities available to undergraduate students.
A Campus Full of Memories
Some of Lucas’s favorite memories come from his time on the soccer team. Friday night games at Kiwanis Stadium, traveling across the Midwest and creating lasting bonds with teammates. He said that his experience beyond athletics, working in the Student Union and serving on SAAC, gave him “leadership experience and allowed [him] to connect with the broader campus community.”
Building a Career in Finance
Today, Lucas is an Analyst at Goldman Sachs in the Asset and Wealth Management operations division. He credits his internships at KPMG Panama during his sophomore and junior years in preparing him for this role. “Those internships allowed me to apply what I was learning in the classroom, build my resume and develop professional skills. They were crucial during the recruiting process in my senior year.”
Lucas credits the coursework at UIS, for giving him a strong foundation in finance and business principles. He also says that his involvement in campus activities taught him how to manage his time efficiently, an essential skill in his current position.
Advice for Current Students
Lucas advises current and future Prairie Stars to, “start gaining relevant experience early—seek out internships as soon as possible. Build relationships with professors and peers and stay focused academically. Every step adds up and helps you stand out when it’s time to apply for jobs.”
Know an inspiring UIS alum?
Nominate them for a future feature by contacting Elizabeth West.