An M.S. in Finance from University of Rochester would allow me to explore diverse career options. The training in management, business, and mathematics would provide me the tools necessary to serve many roles, and is applicable in commerce, industry, and government employment. The flexibility of the degree enables the holder to branch out and discover areas beyond their immediate expertise, and in turn expand the scope of enterprise and discover novel solutions to old problems.
My initial goals are modest, insofar as my first step will be to seek a position as an analyst in asset management. Asset management would allow me to apply the skills that I have learned in my undergraduate studies with the education I receive at Simon. The broad-based interactions that will occur during my master’s studies will expose me to many fields that will serve me well as I collaborate with the diverse groups involved in asset management. Portfolio managers, bankers, advisors, investment specialists, and traders will just be some of the professionals with whom I’ll be required to cooperate with. The diverse student body at the University of Rochester will expose me to students from the entire world, and consequently provide me with insight that will serve my clients as they seek to maximize their investment returns.
My ultimate goal is to be a portfolio manager in a large investment company. As a portfolio manager I will be responsible for making investment decisions regarding other peoples hard earned money. The position is one of high responsibility, which my training will prepare me for. As a portfolio manager I will be presented with the work of analysts and I will be required to make fast investment decisions while keeping the state of the industry, economy, and markets in mind. My education will provide me with the broad background that will be required to analyze the business environment.
Given the market fluctuations, it is not certain that I will be able to achieve my career goals immediately. In light of the potentially difficult market position it is necessary to have a back up plan that would be satisfying intellectually and professionally. If I am unable to find an entry level position as an analyst, my goal would be to secure a position in a PhD program. A PhD program would allow me to explore the field of finance in a theoretical and intellectual capacity and advance research that would improve the field in a myriad of ways. Furthermore, entering academia would allow me to impart the knowledge that I have gained academically in China and the United States as well as professionally on the next generation of students. Education is perhaps the most important of fields because it allows for the continuity of ideas and expansion of horizons.
In sum, I would like to gain practical business experience with my degree; however, I would be comfortable and passionate in academia as well. Both tracks are very important for the advancement of our collective knowledge.
