About Priyanshi

Hometown: Dubai, UAE 
Current Position: Senior Associate, Impact Point Co. 
Previous University: University of Wollongong 
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Commerce, Concentration in Finance
Q: Tell me about yourself.  

A: After working in consulting as a financial accountant for about two years, I began considering a master's in finance because I wanted to learn more about coding and the mathematical approach to quantitative finance.    

Q: Why did you ultimately choose D'Amore-McKim to achieve your professional goals? 

A: One of the main reasons I chose D'Amore-McKim was the liberty the program offers me in selecting classes. This past semester, I took two electives chosen based on my interests and focus within the program. For example, Northeastern has many financial modeling courses, some strictly curated so that students may learn the coding language VBA. Having this skill is an important and attractive attribute when applying for jobs. Certain sectors in finance are looking for employees comfortable using this language and others like it, so I knew this program would give me a competitive edge in the future. 

My goal is to first return to consulting to build on my experience and utilize what I've learned, and in the future, I hope to pursue a career in private equity. Many of my courses this semester are focused on mergers, acquisitions, and valuations, and these skills are essential in consulting and private equity. I'm confident I can leave Northeastern and pursue a successful career. 

Q: What was it like working as an Equity Analyst with the 360 Huntington Fund?

A: The 360 Huntington Fund is a student-run fund that encourages members to get involved and opens their eyes to what is happening in the market. I worked as an Equity Analyst, and I remember during the entire fall semester, I was tracking the market extremely closely so that I could contribute and get involved. I really valued the interactive nature of the fund and the opportunity it gave me to listen to other students. It allowed me to put myself out there and talk to new people. It was a fun experience where we all learned so much. 

Q: You just finished a graduate co-op with Impact Point Co. What was it like?  

A: Impact Point Co. is a consulting firm startup where I worked closely with the office of the CFO as a consultant. I spent my time as a co-op creating thirteen-week forecasts and learning how to take a company's financials and forecast decisions for the long term. This position allowed me to work within a startup while also learning to consult with larger private equity firms. I know the practical knowledge I gained through this hands-on experience will make me stronger in future consulting roles. 

When my co-op ended, they offered me a full-time position after I finish my program, so I can't wait to keep growing with the company.  

Q: Congratulations on the new role! How has your master's prepared you for your future career?

A: At Northeastern, students are given the opportunity to learn and practice the skills that are essential to their future careers. Many courses involve projects and presentations requiring the ability to think on your feet, clearly articulate your ideas, and show your technical knowledge.  

My data analytics class was one of my favorites. I had access to data camp for an entire six months. Most students come from a background where we wouldn't necessarily have access to this information, so this access was incredibly useful in helping me feel prepared for the future. Being a graduate student at D'Amore-McKim, and having the opportunity to do a graduate co-op, have allowed me to leverage my valuation and corporate finance skills, which I will use in my new full-time position.

Q: What advice would you share with future students? 

A: Say yes to the opportunities presented to you. Say yes to being the team leader in a project. Take on new responsibilities. Speak with professors and ask them for help. They are amazing and will talk to you and provide helpful information. It is important to put yourself out there and speak to new people. Don't be shy! and take advantage of the diverse Northeastern community.  

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