Finance professional uses analytics to support inner-city literacy

Q: Tell us about your interest in finance.

A: I'm originally from Baku, Azerbaijan, where I interned as an operational risk manager at Bank Respublika, a commercial bank​.​ I was responsible for analyzing financial data and assessing risk, which sparked my interest in the complexities of finance and quantitative analysis. I decided to pursue a Master of Science in Quantitative Finance to deepen my financial modeling and analysis expertise. 

My goal for the next five years is to become a financial manager, risk manager, or fund manager. I'm on course, taking courses in financial modeling and learning programming tools like Python, MATLAB, and R, which are all in high demand in the job market. 

Q: What made you choose D'Amore-McKim's MS in Quantitative Finance?  

A: I chose D'Amore-McKim's MS in Quantitative Finance because I wanted both rigorous finance coursework and opportunities for networking and career development both during and after my studies. Northeastern University's strong emphasis on experiential learning and opportunities to complete a project for one of their corporate partners stood out to me. I felt that gaining finance work experience would greatly enhance my job prospects after graduation. 

I know this was the right choice now that I'm in the program. I'm gaining practical experience through my Community Impact Initiative project, which is crucial. It will not only help me better understand the market and how to work effectively, but it will also help me stand out among job applicants. 

Q: Tell me about your Community Impact Initiative at an education advocacy group. 

A: I'm completing a Community Impact Initiative project at Behind the Book, a New York-based organization dedicated to inspiring young people to read and pursue education. I had previously volunteered with organizations offering educational workshops and with the European Youth Parliament, which organized events to educate youth on policy and governance, so I was eager to support this organization.  

My team was charged with attracting more companies and volunteers to Behind the Book's events and exploring additional ways these organizations can benefit the local community. Specifically, I'm working on diversifying our volunteer base to better match the backgrounds of the students we serve.  We're collaborating with universities and cultural clubs in New York, aiming to strengthen connections and enhance the impact of our programs.  

Q: How is the experience at your Community Impact Initiative empowering you to achieve your goals?  

A: It's been a rewarding experience to support an organization that helps people. I conduct detailed data analysis and build strategic problem-solving and communication skills in my day-to-day work. From a project management perspective, I'm building skills in organizing and analyzing tasks. 

My coursework at D'Amore-McKim prepared me with data analysis and effective communication skills. I developed the ability to conduct quick, high-quality research. Regular class presentations improved my public speaking skills and confidence, which are essential for my weekly updates in my​role.  

Q: How has the Graduate Career Center supported you? 

A: The Graduate Career Center has a great support system since day one. My career advisor helped me refine my resumé and clearly articulate my career objectives. The career team invites me to networking events, and I'm learning to network in the U.S., which in turn gives me confidence in approaching recruiters on LinkedIn and other platforms. I benefitted from the mock interviews, where I practiced answering questions and received constructive feedback, significantly boosting my confidence and readiness for real job interviews.  

I've received full-time job offers and am still receiving interview invitations. I'm confident in the direction my career is heading. 

Q: What advice would you share with future students? 

A: Networking is crucial. Connect with peers, utilize the Graduate Career Center, and seek help when needed. These efforts can significantly impact your ability to achieve your goals.