Paths to Bentley: Vyper LaTulippe ’25

Vyper LaTulippe discovered a passion for business through an unlikely channel — while studying art. 

In high school, LaTulippe earned a fellowship to study in upstate New York after winning a prestigious national award for his ceramics. There, he double majored in Ceramic Engineering and Art and Design, demanding fields that combine principles from materials science, chemistry, physics and engineering to create, design and optimize everything from everyday items like pottery and tiles to advanced materials used in aerospace and electronics systems. He enjoyed the combination of creative, analytical and quantitative skills the two majors entailed.

Yet it was not just these technical aspects that ultimately energized LaTulippe. While completing two engineering cooperatives, he discovered another gift: He found he could bridge the gap between the creative, exploratory mindset of artists and the methodical, problem-solving approach of engineers. "I realized I could speak both languages and also connect the dots between the technical teams and the end market," he says. This sparked an interest in businesss, particularly investment and finance, where he felt these skills would help him excel.

In applying to Bentley, LaTulippe knew everything hinged on whether the university would take a chance on him both scholastically and financially. A standout student with unique skills, he was accepted quickly, but financial barriers remained the real hurdle. "Without scholarships or financial aid, I couldn't have made the switch," LaTulippe says. When he learned he had received ample funding, he knew his goal was within reach. "That was a life-changing moment," he recalls.

At Bentley, LaTulippe threw himself into his new chosen field from day one. "I have access to the trading room, got involved in the investment club and learned from professors who have real-world experience in the finance industry." His initiative helped him secure a highly competitive internship at JMP Group, a capital markets firm recently acquired by Citizens Financial Group. On graduating, he will join Citizens JMP Securities as an investment banking analyst.

LaTulippe says his experience in coming to Bentley has put him on an incredible path of learning and opportunity. "I know if I invest in myself and my skills and work hard I can achieve anything I set my mind to," he says. The fast-paced environment suits him well. "Everyone is pretty full on," he says. "To balance that, I listen to all kinds of music from all over the world, play hockey, create art and experience life at every opportunity."