Credit Risk Internship - Summer 2025

As a Credit Risk Intern at Pagaya, you'll be integral to supporting our Credit Risk team by focusing on projects that highlight credit risk management and machine learning application. You will work with data modeling, perform analyses on financial statements, and develop technical writing skills to present complex information clearly. Your role will also involve collaborating with team members to iterate on existing processes and drive impactful outcomes in our innovative fintech environment.

To qualify for the Credit Risk Internship at Pagaya, candidates should be pursuing an undergraduate degree with an expected graduation in Jan/May 2026. Strong familiarity with Python, SQL, and Excel for data management is essential, alongside an understanding of credit assets and investment vehicles. Previous experience in consumer lending and strong communication skills will also be beneficial. The ideal candidate should exhibit creativity and analytical thinking, with a strong drive to excel in a collaborative team environment.

Interns at Pagaya will gain firsthand experience in the fast-paced fintech industry. Throughout the internship, they will expand their knowledge of risk management, data analysis, and financial modeling. Additionally, interns will learn from seasoned professionals and be engaged in discussions that challenge their thinking and foster professional growth while contributing to key projects that align with the company’s priorities.

Interns will be expected to work a full-time schedule, Monday through Friday. The structure includes in-office work at our Midtown Manhattan location Monday through Thursday, while Fridays can be remote. This flexible approach ensures a balance between collaboration and independent work, allowing interns to make the most of their experience while contributing effectively to their teams.

At Pagaya, interns will find themselves in a vibrant and inclusive work environment centered around collaboration and innovation. The culture is designed to empower individuals to take initiative, share ideas, and learn from one another. Interns will work alongside seasoned professionals who are passionate about finance and technology, creating a stimulating atmosphere that encourages curiosity and professional development.

Credit risk refers to the potential that a borrower may fail to meet their obligations in accordance with agreed terms. It is crucial in finance, as it helps institutions evaluate the likelihood of default and manage their exposure. When answering this question, relate your understanding to how Pagaya uses AI and machine learning to assess credit risk, emphasizing your analytical skills and knowledge of the industry.

In preparing for this question, highlight your specific experiences working with Python and SQL. Discuss any projects where you utilized these languages for data analysis, modeling, or financial calculations. Provide examples that showcase your familiarity, problem-solving abilities, and your approach to using these tools to derive insights, especially related to credit risk.

Think back to a specific team project where your contribution made a significant impact. Detail the role you played, the challenges you faced, and how you collaborated with others to achieve success. Highlight the importance of teamwork in achieving the project’s objectives, and connect this experience to the collaborative culture at Pagaya.

Research Pagaya’s mission and values, and be prepared to discuss its AI-driven methodologies. Explain how Pagaya integrates technology into credit risk management, enhancing decision-making and improving outcomes for investors and partners. Showing your knowledge and enthusiasm for the company helps demonstrate your alignment with its goals.

When answering this question, emphasize your time management and organizational skills. Discuss specific strategies you employ, such as breaking down tasks, prioritizing effectively, and remaining adaptable. Provide an example of how you handled a similar situation in the past, showcasing your ability to work under pressure while delivering quality results.

Share your personal interest in the fascinating aspects of credit risk management, such as analyzing data, solving complex problems, or the impact of financial analytics on decision-making. Relate these interests to your aspirations and how they align with the opportunities available through the Credit Risk Internship at Pagaya.

Accuracy in technical writing is crucial, especially when conveying complex financial concepts. Discuss your process for ensuring precision, such as thorough research, peer reviews, and clear structure. Provide examples from previous work where your attention to detail enhanced the clarity and impact of your written materials.

Prepare a story where you faced a challenge that required analytical thinking. Detail the steps you took to analyze the situation, consider various solutions, and how you arrived at the best outcome. This showcases your problem-solving skills and illustrates how you can apply these skills in a real-world context, especially in a role focused on credit risk.

Discuss your desire for growth, learning, and innovation in a fast-paced environment. Talk about your ambitions and how you thrive when faced with challenges, emphasizing your eagerness to contribute to a company like Pagaya that champions inclusion and continuous improvement.

When addressing this question, illustrate your ability to simplify complex ideas by using analogies or relatable examples. Emphasize your communication skills and how effective storytelling can bridge the gap between technicalities and accessibility, which is vital for engaging diverse stakeholders.