About Yasmine
Country: Tunisia
Previous Degree: BS, Finance and Entrepreneurship & New Venture Management
Previous University: Northeastern University
Q: What led you to pursue an MBA and a career in finance?
A: Originally from Tunis, Tunisia, I came to Boston in 2011 and chose Northeastern for my bachelor's degree because of its emphasis on experiential learning. After graduation, I spent six years working for a registered investment advisor in Boston, which I enjoyed. However, I wanted a role with more direct client interaction, which led me back to Northeastern for an MBA to transition from pitching stocks to advisors to becoming one. I am deeply interested in markets and news, but I am most passionate about understanding people—their dreams, core needs, and aspirations for building and preserving their wealth.
Q: What set D'Amore-McKim apart when considering MBA programs?
A: I was looking for a chance to connect with a diverse, global community that encourages meaningful debates and collaboration across cultures, and I found that at Northeastern. What sets the MBA at D'Amore-McKim apart was the flexibility to tailor the curriculum to my interests. I combined two concentrations—Leading People & Organizations and Investments to focus on behavioral finance. The program's flexibility also extended beyond traditional business topics, allowing me to explore my interest in the Arts by taking interdisciplinary courses on leadership and advocacy in that field.
Q: Can you tell us about your corporate residency at JP Morgan?
A: I loved my experience at JP Morgan Private Bank, where I worked as a Summer MBA Associate and Banker. I pursued a three-month residency to amplify my experience in the wealth management field since this is the career path I want to pursue. It was an opportunity for me to apply my knowledge of investments and develop my financial planning skills. My corporate residency was a very hands-on experience. I used my knowledge of investments and developed my financial planning skills so that I can advise clients on all aspects of their balance sheets in the future. My goal is to help clients manage their wealth in a way that supports their life stories, and I believe JP Morgan has the resources to make that vision a reality. I was able to directly apply much of what I learned during my first year of the MBA, including using my personal brand as a competitive advantage, applying sound judgment in managerial decision-making, and building expertise in portfolio construction and risk management.
Q: What was it like taking a global elective that involved travel?
A: One of the highlights of my MBA journey was participating in a Global Field Study, where I traveled to Dubai and Abu Dhabi with 20 other students, faculty, and staff. The travel-based elective offered by the D'Amore-McKim School broadened my perspective and provided real-world insights into the UAE's rapid economic growth. Our visits highlighted the country's emphasis on innovation, sustainability, urban development, and cultural advancement. I gained a deeper understanding of global business dynamics through meetings with executives, guest speakers, and visits to local firms. These experiences were transformative, helping me develop cultural agility and appreciate diverse perspectives and needs.
Q: What lessons from D'Amore-McKim will you take to the professional world?
A: At both the undergraduate and graduate levels, Northeastern's emphasis on community has reinforced my commitment to supporting and helping others. I will continue to bring this mindset of fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment into my professional life. Thanks to class discussions and my corporate residency, I've developed the ability to see challenges and opportunities from different angles —a skill essential for advancing my career in finance.
