Fund and co-op shape the path from accounting to quantitative finance

Q: What is your background?

A: What started as a love for numbers in India quickly evolved into a passion for solving complex financial challenges, and that journey has taken me across continents. After completing the intermediate level of the Chartered Accountancy qualification, which is similar to the CPA exam in the U.S., I realized I wanted more than numbers on a page. Inspired by my parents and an interest in finance and driven by a passion for solving real-world problems, I transitioned from back-end accounting into front-end finance roles focused on strategy and client engagement. Those experiences taught me how to think critically, make decisions independently and deliver value directly to clients. 

Q: Why did you choose D'Amore-McKim?

A: My experience in client-focused finance roles sparked a desire to broaden my global perspective, leading me to pursue a Master's in Quantitative Finance in the United States. I chose D'Amore-McKim because its future-focused curriculum combines finance and technology, equipping me with the skills needed in today's evolving financial landscape. At Northeastern, I found the ideal mix of rigorous academics, hands-on learning through opportunities like co-op and the student-led mutual fund, and a location that offers endless professional connections.

My ambition is to work in a fintech company or a major financial institution like J.P. Morgan or Goldman Sachs. The MS in Quantitative Finance program has given me exactly what I need, a strong foundation in financial theory, and the technical skills to analyze data and drive strategic decisions. 

Courses like Investments and Portfolio Management sharpened my analytical thinking skills, and I've had opportunities to apply financial concepts in real-world challenges. That combination has given me the confidence to take on new responsibilities and grow as a finance professional.

Q: How did you gain real investing experience?

A: One of the most transformative experiences during my program was joining the 360 Huntington Fund, Northeastern's student-managed mutual fund. I had no prior investment background, but I was eager for real exposure to U.S. markets. I started as an equity analyst, researching companies, building valuation models, and making stock recommendations. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding. 

My commitment and market insights earned me a promotion to senior equity analyst the following semester. I continued to pitch stocks and deliver quarterly buy, sell, or hold recommendations. One of my proudest moments was pitching an upstream energy company that received full support and is still in the fund today. That experience gave me confidence, sharpened my analytical skills, and proved that I could make high-stakes investment decisions.

Q: How have your Bloomberg skills set you apart? 

A: My experience with Bloomberg Terminal through the 360 Huntington Fund gave me a strong advantage in finance. I learned how to access real-time market data, analyze trends, and build valuation models using professional-grade tools. Bloomberg isn't just about data, it's about making informed decisions quickly, and mastering it gave me a competitive edge. 

That expertise paid off during my graduate co-op at Publix, where my Bloomberg experience stood out immediately. From day one, I was able to contribute at a higher level, delivering real-time insights to support investment strategies and deliver actionable recommendations. It's a skill set that sets me apart. 

Q: Where did you work as a graduate co-op?

A: My graduate co-op at Publix in Florida was a game-changer. As a financial analyst intern, I had the chance to apply what I learned in classes and through the 360 Huntington Fund to real business challenges.  At Publix, I tackled projects that made a real impact. I automated the profit and loss account, rebuilt complex Excel formulas in a new SQL database, and reduced processing time from hours to minutes. 

Presenting my work pushed me out of my comfort zone and strengthened my communication skills. By the end of my graduate co-op, I had gained confidence, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities I hadn't realized I had. It was truly transformative and reinforced my readiness for a high-level finance role.

Q: How did the Graduate Career Center support you? 

A: The D'Amore-McKim Graduate Career Center was a huge part of my success. Weekly meetings with my advisor helped me refine my resumé, sharpen my application strategy, and stay focused. Balancing this with a full course load was challenging, but the career guidance made it manageable. When I was preparing for my Publix graduate co-op, my advisor provided targeted interview prep, including practice questions that actually came up in my interview. That level of personalized guidance made all the difference.

Beyond advising, the Career Center inspired me to grow in new ways. I served as a teaching assistant, which deepened my understanding of finance while helping others. I also joined the Graduate Career Center's Student Advisory Board, where I collaborated with peers to suggest improvements and enhance the student experience. These roles strengthened my skills, broadened my perspective, and boosted my confidence in applying what I've learned.

The D'Amore-McKim MS in Quantitative Finance program isn't just about academics. It's about building a network, gaining leadership experience, and preparing for every aspect of your career.

Q: What advice would you give to future students?

A: My best advice is to value your time; it goes by faster than you think. The MS in Quantitative Finance program can be completed in 16 months with a graduate co-op or in 12 months without, so make the most of every day. Learn, explore, and step out of your comfort zone.

Take full advantage of Northeastern's resources, from databases and news portals to Bloomberg Terminal certifications. Focus on what works best for you, push yourself to grow, and make the experience both meaningful and productive. Every opportunity you seize here will shape your future in ways you can't imagine.