For Sofija Valancius ’27, studying finance is personal. Her parents immigrated to the United States from Lithuania in their twenties, building a life in a new country while navigating unfamiliar financial systems. Watching their careful approach to money sparked Valancius’ desire to better understand finance and one day help guide others through it.
As she explored her college options, Valancius learned that she had received a scholarship to attend the University of Notre Dame. When she visited campus, she remembers a moment when everything seemed to click into place and she could picture herself there. “It felt like a moment from the Lord that was gifted to me,” she says. “Everything fell into place.”
Valancius has made the best of her time at Notre Dame too. With involvement in the Investment Club, the Student International Business Council, and Campus Ministry, her schedule is full to the brim with meaningful opportunities. She also serves as a teaching assistant for Professor Thomas Gallagher in the Mendoza College of Business, strengthening her foundation in management and organization.
Last summer, Valancius experienced the unexpected loss of her father. In the months that followed, she found support in the Notre Dame community, leaning on friends, mentors, and campus resources during a difficult time. A mentor in the Transformational Leaders Program helped connect her with support and remained a steady presence as she navigated the loss.
Reflecting on her journey as a first-generation student at Notre Dame, Valancius expresses deep gratitude for the opportunity she has been given. “[My parents] sacrificed so much to come to the United States and give me an education, an option they didn’t even have.”
Religious presence, amazing academics, and athletics were Valancius’ priorities when choosing a college. She says that Notre Dame has all that and adds that the community she has found here is unique and special.
One of Valancius’ favorite memories from her college career is the first snowball fight during her first year. Every winter, during the first snowfall at Notre Dame, students gather on South Quad at midnight for a snowball fight. As a Floridian, Valancius recalls walking outside of Bond Hall and seeing the snowfall, calling it “magical.”
Experiences of community are important to Valancius. She appreciates that the Notre Dame family stands out for its plethora of mentorship opportunities. Throughout her time here, she’s found that professors, staff, alumni, and upperclass students give honest help and advice that truly helps students prepare for their future.
Valancius aims to pursue private wealth management. Feeling a personal calling to help those who have been in her situation, she wants to work in a client-facing environment where she can assist others with financial support.
To Valancius, being first-generation means to give back to her community and make the most out of her experiences: “ND has felt like a second family to me because they have provided me with so many resources to make this dream come true,” she says. “Whether it’s the mentors or academic connections, I owe it all to the support I get from this University.”
Watch the video above to learn more about Sofija Valancius’ Notre Dame journey.
