About Isha
Country: India
Previous University: Ramnarain Ruia College – Mumbai
Undergraduate Degree: Economics
Q: Tell us about your journey from working in securities to pursuing an MS in Quantitative Finance.
A: My path from securities to pursuing an MS in Quantitative Finance has been an evolving journey, shaped by both challenges and opportunities. I completed my undergraduate degree in Economics in India and passed the CFA Level I exam in 2019, but the pandemic disrupted my progress with the CFA program when exams were suspended.
I worked for a US-based company in India, concentrating on mortgage-backed securities. This role was heavily focused on qualitative finance. After three years, I realized the benefits of integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. This led me to pursue a Master's in Quantitative Finance, where I could blend the analytical side of numbers with the strategic insights of finance, giving me a more well-rounded approach to investment management.
Q: Why did you choose the D'Amore-McKim MS in Quantitative Finance program?
A: I chose D'Amore-McKim because of its flexible curriculum, which allowed me to select the courses aligned with my interests. At first, I planned to focus solely on quantitative finance. But as I went along, I realized how valuable it was to be able to shift my focus based on my changing interests and strengths. Other programs lacked this flexibility.. D'Amore-McKim's MS in Quantitative Fianance certainly was a good choice. I enjoy the flexibility to choose electives in advanced finance or economics, mathematics, and computer science.
Additionally, the 360 Huntington Fund was a major draw. Hearing from friends who graduated from this program and now have successful finance careers in private equity and fixed income reinforced the program's strong track record and practical value and proved that this program was ideal for me.
Q: How did you work up to managing director of the 360 Huntington Fund?
A: My journey with the 360 Huntington Fund began in my first semester as an audit analyst. My enthusiasm and proactive participation in the Fund's sessions paid off, and I was promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the spring semester.
As COO, I focused on improving operational efficiencies and managing our portfolio, contributing to our first-place win at the GAME Forum competition. I earned a promotion to managing director for my final semester.
As managing director, I shifted our investment strategy from stable Fortune 500 companies to smaller and mid-cap companies with higher growth potential. I managed trade sizes, assessed financial metrics, and adapted our strategy to macroeconomic factors and policy changes. Despite market volatility, our portfolio performed well, reflecting our strategic agility and my growth in investment management.
Q: How did the 360 Huntington Fund impact your career trajectory?
A: My experience managing the 360 Huntington Fund shaped my career aspirations. The fund's focus on investing in US public equities and managing portfolio holdings inspired me to pursue a role in investment management that combines my research background with practical investment skills.
Currently, I'm building expertise in fixed-income securities, aligning with my previous work in structured finance and securitization, which significantly influenced the 2008 financial crisis. My previous role as a rating agency analyst at a smaller agency focused on research. Combining the insights gained from the Fund with my background, I aim to move into investment management roles within fixed income, blending my research experience with hands-on investment management.
Q: How did the Graduate Career Center support you?
A: Transitioning from a niche finance vertical to investment management was challenging, but the Graduate Career Center team was very supportive. They guided me on how to network effectively, helping me to focus on strategic outreach to a smaller, more targeted group of potential employers.
The career center was instrumental in preparing me for the job search. My dedicated career advisor made himself readily available and coached me through resumé and cover letter writing. He also helped me consider future career options and how to translate experience in the Fund into a career. Their guidance was crucial in navigating the competitive job market.
Q: What advice would you give to future quantitative finance students?
A: My advice for future students is to stay resilient and persistent. The classes can be challenging, and you'll compete with peers from diverse backgrounds with different perspectives and skills. Don't be discouraged by initial setbacks because everyone faces difficulties, especially in the first semester. Keep your focus on your goals and remember that differentiation is key.
Also, make the most of the resources available as a D'Amore-McKim student. The Graduate Career Center, Snell Library resources, and tools like the Bloomberg Terminal and PitchBook are invaluable. These resources, including free subscriptions to The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, are often underutilized, so take full advantage of them to support your studies and career development.
