About Alex
Current Position: Investment Banking Analyst, RBC Capital Markets
Previous University: Northeastern University
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Finance and Entrepreneurship
Q: Why did you pursue your master's in finance at D'Amore-McKim?
A: The practical focus of the program was really appealing to me. The curriculum is designed to give students a strong foundation in finance theory and analytical tools and to teach us to apply that knowledge to real-world situations. This emphasis was essential to me–I knew I wanted to work in the finance industry and be prepared to hit the ground running after graduation. The MS in Finance seemed like the perfect fit.
Q: How will your identity as both a student and Division One athlete prepare you to achieve career goals?
A: The biggest lesson I've learned as an athlete is to put one hundred percent effort into everything I do. I am on the ice competing with teammates, and I am also in the classroom working with my peers. I give everything I have to whatever I do. Through my sports background, I've developed a skillset that I transfer to my identity as a student today and my future as an investment banker. I balance my commitments while still putting in effort and showing up for myself, my peers, and my teammates. As I progress in my career, I will utilize the lessons I've learned to help me succeed.
Q: Tell us about your student experience at D'Amore-McKim?
A: My experience as a student at D'Amore-McKim has been really fulfilling. I've had a great support system, been academically challenged, and learned a lot. D'Amore-McKim has been supportive as I balanced time commitments and worked to achieve career aspirations. My advisor and professors have offered their advice and encouraged me along the way. I can't imagine being at any other school.
Q: How has your degree prepared you for your full-time position after graduation?
A: I recently accepted an investment banking analyst position at RBC Capital Markets. As a student at Northeastern, I was lucky enough to land two separate summer internships with RBC. This past summer, I worked as a Corporate Banking Summer Analyst. I was able to land this job with help from my advisor and through networking with Northeastern alums.
I've developed an impressive skill set at D'Amore-McKim that has prepared me for my future career in finance. I've gained a strong foundation in finance fundamentals with courses that connect the dots across every level of finance. I've developed strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and soft skills like time management and communication. Establishing a deep understanding of financial analysis, valuation, and modeling has already significantly impacted my feeling prepared for my new role.
Q: What advice do you have for future students?
A: Push yourself outside of your comfort zone. I had a few classes I was nervous about taking, but after diving into the material and speaking with teachers and peers, I realized everyone is there to learn and help each other. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and try new things. Life's a learning experience, and you should take advantage of the opportunities in front of you right now.
Keep Exploring
Gaining confidence through virtual work experience
“Completing a virtual work experience gave me the confidence to answer questions about portfolio management in an interview. I can talk about my experience in any interview, not just for a portfolio analyst position.” says Swetha Sundar, MS in Quantitative Finance'22
Finding her place in finance and making an investment in her future
“The MS in Quantitative Finance degree allowed me to pursue a variety of classes and determine the path I wanted to take in finance. It was an investment in my future. For me, Northeastern ticked all these boxes in addition to being a university centered in a student-friendly community where peers from all over the world surround you with unique perspectives.” says Samantha Li, MS in Quantitative Finance'22
Securing his dream job and forging a career in finance backed by practical experience
“I always had a dream to work on Wall Street. During my time as a financial analyst, I realized that I would need more knowledge and to educate myself further to build a successful finance career in the United States. I ultimately decided to pursue my Master's because I was confident that it would provide me a step up in the finance world and job competition.” Says Ayush Goel, MS in Quantitative Finance'22