Hernandez Gains Real-World Finance Experience Through Internship at ACC Capital

Angela Hernandez, a senior finance major from Little Rock, is building a strong foundation for her future career in finance through an internship at ACC Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution that supports Arkansas business owners by providing access to capital and technical assistance.

Hernandez began her internship in July and will continue through December. She said the experience has given her valuable exposure to the lending industry and deepened her understanding of entrepreneurship and community development.

“Through this internship, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with several departments, including community development, lending, and marketing,” she said. “I’ve participated in a variety of projects that have given me insight into the full process of loan application and approval. It’s allowed me to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting and see how financial institutions serve underserved communities.”

Hernandez, who will graduate in May 2026, plans to pursue a career in investment banking while also exploring real estate investment. She said her time at ACC Capital has helped her refine critical skills that will support her career ambitions.

“This internship has given me a true glimpse into what my future could look like on a day-to-day basis,” she said. “Balancing school, work, and this internship has strengthened my time management skills. I’ve also learned to approach challenges more strategically and with a broader perspective. These experiences have given me a stronger sense of professionalism and purpose in pursuing a career in finance.”

One event that left a lasting impression on Hernandez was Credit to Capital, a financial literacy event hosted by ACC Capital.

“After the event, an older woman approached Adriana Fuentes, the vice president of community development, in tears thanking her for the opportunity,” Hernandez said. “She said the event gave her a renewed sense of hope and a better understanding of how to improve her credit and finances. It made me realize how many people still lack access to essential resources like financial literacy. It reinforced my desire to work in a field where I can help others gain the tools they need to succeed financially.”

For Hernandez, the internship has also offered lessons she couldn’t have learned in a classroom.

“While textbooks and lectures provide foundational knowledge, working in a real-world environment has shown me how to apply that knowledge in practical, meaningful ways,” she said. “I’ve experienced what it’s like to work a 9-to-5 schedule, attend diverse meetings, and contribute to projects that have a real impact. It’s taught me how to navigate a professional setting, communicate effectively with different departments, and think critically beyond the academic setting.”

Beyond her coursework and internship, Hernandez is also actively involved on campus. She is a founding member of the UA Little Rock Colony of Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc., where she serves as treasurer and academic chairwoman, and she recently joined the Finance Club to expand her knowledge and network within the industry.

Hernandez said her experiences at UA Little Rock and ACC Capital have given her confidence in her ability to succeed after graduation.

“I feel like this internship brought everything I’ve learned in the classroom to life,” she said. “It has prepared me for my future career in ways that go beyond academics. It’s been a unique opportunity that I’ll carry with me as I take the next steps in finance.”