Previous Degree: BSc in Mechanical Engineering at Queen's University in Canada
Although my background was originally in mathematics and engineering, I gradually became interested in business, particularly finance, as it seemed that it would be a much more stimulating and relevant application of my interests and skills. I therefore decided to pursue a graduate degree in finance to give me knowledge of this field and after a lot of research the LSE was my top choice. I was impressed with the reputation of the Department of Finance along with the programme structure of the MSc Finance course (which is less targeted towards financial engineering and mathematical finance than a lot of other finance masters programmes).
When I started the programme, I knew that I would be working in Mergers & Acquisitions at an investment bank after I graduated, so I really wanted to focus on gaining the skills applicable for that job. From the range of courses I was easily able to learn everything I wanted (and more) about M&A, but I believe I also gained a much broader and richer education. Through the various elective courses I now have an appreciation for how capital markets function, how various types of securities are priced, how institutions hedge their risks and how fund managers invest their capital. I believe that these skills will benefit me a great deal in the future, however my career develops.
Aside from the course material, perhaps the best part of the programme was being around so many smart and motivated people. Class discussions were always interesting and interactive, and you really got the feeling that students cared more about understanding the course material than simply getting a high mark. That sort of environment makes it very easy to motivate yourself and get excited about what you are learning.
Where are they now?
After I graduated from LSE I began my career in finance working at RBC Capital Markets in Toronto as a M&A Analyst. In two years I gained a very good appreciation for the fundamentals of valuation. I was able to hit the ground running given the coursework I had done at LSE. After two years I left to obtain my MBA at Wharton Business School, where I decided major in real estate, a subject I was becoming increasingly interested in. I now work for Oxford Properties in Toronto focusing on real estate development, part of a team responsible for building new office buildings, apartments, shopping centres and industrial complexes. It is very interesting work which covers everything from architecture, construction, engineering and, of course, finance. I think it’s a great blend of my engineering and finance backgrounds.
I am grateful for having attended LSE. I have been able to use what I learned as an investment banker, MBA student and real estate developer; a sound understanding of finance seems valuable in all business contexts. I also have lasting friendships. One year after graduation I spent a week traveling the U.S. with six of my closest friends from school. A year later I attended the wedding of a friend from my residence, Grosvenor House. I am also still in touch with alumni who live in Toronto. Looking back, the year I spent studying and traveling through Europe was certainly one of my best!