William Tier has built his path in finance by combining curiosity, initiative, and a drive to create value both inside and outside the classroom.
After earning his undergraduate degree in Finance from the University of Arkansas in 2024, Tier chose to continue his education through the Master of Science in Finance program, where he deepened his expertise while staying actively involved in shaping new initiatives within the university community. Now, as he prepares to graduate, Tier has been selected as his program’s 2026 Outstanding Graduate Scholar.
Below, William shares more about his experience in the program and his advice for others considering a future in finance.
Did you always plan on a career in finance?
I did not always know I wanted a career in finance, but I used college as a proving ground to figure out where I performed best and what kind of work energized me most. Over time, I found that finance — especially investing and private markets — fit the way I like to think, work, and create value, and that realization shaped the direction I’ve pursued since.
What made you choose the Master of Science in Finance program?
I chose this Master’s program because I wanted to deepen my knowledge in finance while specifically strengthening my understanding of private market investing, valuation, and decision-making. Just as importantly, I saw the program as a way to fully leverage the university’s people, mentorship, and opportunities to accelerate my growth and position myself for success beyond the classroom.
What is your current job? How are you applying what you’re learning in the program?
I currently work full time as a venture capital investor at Capital Factory, an Austin-based firm, where I am also helping build out our expansion in Northwest Arkansas. I also currently work for High Street Equity Partners, VC based in Washington, D.C. in a regional deal flow lead capacity. In both of these roles, I use what I’ve learned both in and outside the classroom every day — from evaluating companies through their financial statements and business models to developing the judgment and communication skills needed to speak with CEOs, assess opportunities, and represent ideas professionally in high-stakes conversations.
What are your favorite moments or memories from the program?
Some of my favorite moments came from being able to help build things that would last beyond my own time in the program. In particular, it was incredibly meaningful to support Ken McGovern as the Alternative Assets program went from an idea to something real over multiple semesters, which I now serve on the board of advisors, and to help launch the student venture capital fund and club with Dr. Cash Acrey, which gave students tangible ways to engage with investing, leadership, and the broader finance ecosystem.
As you approach graduation, what advice would you give to prospective or current students?
I would encourage students to find the people who believe in them and in their ideas, and then go all in. Use every resource available outside the classroom, especially your professors, because the right mentors can materially shape your future — and treat the program as a proving ground where you can test yourself, try things, and even fail in ways that help you grow before the consequences are as high as they are in the real world.
How has the program prepared you for future success?
This program gave me the space to do exactly that — to learn, to build, to lead, and to test myself in meaningful ways — and I believe that directly helped me get to where I am now. It strengthened my technical abilities, but even more importantly, it helped me develop the confidence, judgment, and initiative to create value in organizations, contribute beyond my immediate role, and pursue bigger opportunities with a much stronger foundation.
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Are you interested in building a career in finance? Click here for more information about the program, including application requirements and upcoming virtual information sessions.
