While searching for a graduate degree I looked for a school that offered a world class curriculum, located in an international metropolis. I had a pretty clear idea of what I was expecting and Queen Mary's reputation and location made it an easy choice. The University has recently become a member of the Russell Group – the group of 24 leading UK universities, what has proved Queen Mary to be the good selection. In addition, the urban location in the heart of the U.K. capital offers the vibrant lifestyle of a Londoner, exceptional links with employers and a truly multi-cultural perspective. The University equips students with knowledge, skills as well as the mindset necessary to succeed in today's turbulent times and the tough job market.
The University’s newly established Finance Masters seemed the perfect fit for furthering my career in investment banking. The programme content was rich and well structured so that it methodically exposed all students to the world of finance, enabling a well rounded view of all aspects of the subject. Lectures were given by both academic professors and investment banking practitioners which helped the students draw a nexus between theoretical concepts taught in class and their practical implementation. Particularly interesting have been the meetings with industry professionals invited in as guest speakers, allowing to gain a new, often different perspective. Above all, these have been just good opportunities to network with some fine personalities from the LondonCity.
Furthermore, the Finance programme allowed students to choose modules to be attended depending on their practical needs for future profession and provided strong fundamentals for pursuing an array of professional certifications such as the highly rewarded CFA. The course materials were made up-to-date and real life examples were provided in the classroom. The professors expressed a genuine interest in the students' learning providing a holistic approach and expressing concern for their students’ entire development, both academic and personal. Besides, several un-graded modules were added to our programme that enhanced students’ possibilities to build own tailored portfolio of skills and sector expertise. I was also very pleased by the Insessional English sessions additionallyoffered by QMUL and touching upon the skills of making and delivering quality presentations, reports and essay writing, English grammar, proofreading skills and lecture comprehension - all of which helped to maximise the performance at university and improve the quality of academic assignments.
Moreover, Queen Mary Careers, part of The Careers Group of University of London, the largest careers service in the country, was a great help in securing my current employment. I have been provided with up-to-date information on job offers, one-to-one careers advices, practice interviews, CV checks, psychometric test preparation, and a lot more.
In addition, the programme attracts a variety of interesting people. At any time, I was at one table with students from England, Italy, Greece, Russia, China, Canada, India and many other countries. Working with students from such diverse backgrounds has enriched my experience at Queen Mary.
Finally, Queen Mary offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities such as the QUMMIF Investment Club. I have been involved with the Club as the Hedge Fund Sector Leader for several months. I have been managing a team of sector specific research analysts that conducted ETF’s performance analysis in order to identify new investment possibilities. One of the most interesting assignments was delivering presentation and research summaries at Club’s Growth Fund Investment Committee. An experience with the Investment Club has been very valuable as it enables students not only to learn theories but implement them in a professional environment and see the actual markets in action, as a consequence of their portfolio management decisions. Being the QUMMIF Investment Club member also had its perks in the form of the possibility to attend sponsored events with the leading City investment firms and training companies providing study materials and coaching in the pursuit of many professional certifications. In addition, the series of Corporate Events allowed students to network and enhance their business acumen. My role with the Club had definitely expanded my leadership skills and flexibility. It has been a great fun too!
Current position: Business Analyst, Prime Brokerage & Exchange Traded Derivatives, UBS Investment Bank, New York City.
