We invited a number of senior leaders at Two Sigma to share insights from their careers and offer guidance to interns just setting out on their professional journeys.
In Part 1 and Part 2 of this series, we heard from Two Sigma’s co-CEOs, Chief Technology Officer, and more.
Here, with 2025’s summer intern season entering the home stretch, we hear from:
- Dawn Schoppner, Chief Financial Officer
- Geoff Duncombe, Chief Investment Officer, Two Sigma Advisers
Dawn Schoppner
Chief Financial Officer
Building relationships is so important. When you are in an office, get up each day, walk around, and meet one new person. Trusted relationships are really going to be part of your success, whether at Two Sigma or any other company.
When you are in an office, get up each day, walk around, and meet one new person.
Second, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Do not worry about your question not making sense. Curiosity is very important, and being able to get answers to your questions will help bring you to the next topic you’ll want to learn about, and then the next thing, and so on.
Finally, always raise your hand. Never worry about taking on more responsibility—just work hard.
Geoff Duncombe
Chief Investment Officer, Two Sigma Advisers
Remember: your career will be long, so avoid excessive short-termism during your internship. Instead, think about your “20-year self.” What will that future self benefit from most?
Alternatively, think of yourself as akin to an early-stage growth company. Take risks, take on new challenges, take opportunities to level yourself up. In other words, don’t safeguard yourself too much. The truth is, you’re going to make lots of mistakes—and that’s okay. Use the experiences you gain as an intern and in your early career to build your overall skill set and knowledge base.
Think about what you can give to the company, not what you can take away.
Finally, think about what you can give to the company, not what you can take away. Look around and ask what you can contribute uniquely, instead of focusing on how to maximize your network and so on. Adopting that mentality—of making contributions, rather than simply chasing money or padding your résumé—will lead to a more successful career in the long run.
Learn More
For additional career perspectives from senior Two Sigma leaders, read Part 1 and Part 2 of this series. And if you’re curious about working with us, visit our Careers page for more information.
