MSc Finance & Economics Alumni Profiles

Jasper Knyphausen
Bachelor and Master of Science in Mathematics, University of Bonn
Now a Research Analyst in the Monetary Policy Strategy Division at the ECB, and an incoming PhD candidate at the University of Oxford

The programme impressed by its mix of rigorous foundational courses in Financial Economics with a wide range of specialised elective options. In this way, theoretic econometric principles are perfectly combined with practical questions in the finance industry. This structure gave me – even as someone who previously came from a pure mathematics background – the optimal basis for working in central banking after graduation and for pursuing a challenging PhD-degree thereafter.

I would encourage every new student to take full advantage of all the different opportunities that LSE provides - from the networking events, over the individual consulting sessions in the career centre, to the office hours of the programme administrators and professors, who significantly supported me with questions about the course material and with my PhD-applications. For those who fully immerse themselves in the programme, the year in London with all the new connections and friendships will have profound benefits that will fundamentally boost further careers.

Isabella Gschossmann
BSc. in Business Administration, LMU Munich.
Now an incoming PhD candidate at Imperial College, having completed a traineeship at the European Central Bank

I chose to do the MSc Finance and Economics at LSE because of the excellent prospects it brings to students with PhD ambitions in finance or economics. Its reputation, the guidance provided by the department and the quality of training all contribute immensely to students’ success in applications. The degree has further helped my career by opening various paths, hence allowing me to gain experience in central banking before pursuing a PhD. Finally, it has equipped me with the skills and knowledge required to be successful in research, which eventually gave me the confidence to pursue graduate studies.

The highlight of the programme definitely is sharing this experience with your F&E cohort, which will be full of very ambitious and bright people. I advise prospective students to be open-minded and make use of all the opportunities the MSc brings, including the connections it offers to current and past students.

Ahmet Erdem Cetintas
BA in Economics & BSc in Mathematics, Bogazici University
Now at Risk Control Ltd

I was looking for a programme which would prepare me for academia as well as equip me with a skill set for an industry job. MSc Finance and Economics was the perfect choice considering its excellent placement record for top PhD programs and industry jobs.

I am currently a quantitative analyst at a risk consulting firm. The core courses provided the financial, mathematical, and statistical theory required for my role. With the help of the coding assignments in the elective courses, I applied my theoretical knowledge to hands-on work, which is crucial for the quantitative projects at my job.

The programme is fast-paced and packed with information. Learning from the professors who are the best in their fields is a great experience. Although it is sometimes challenging to keep up, my advice for prospective students is to make the most of the programme. The department staff is helpful and always supports you if you have any issues. Finally, enjoy London with your amazing classmates!

Wenchuan Zhao
Bachelor in Accounting, Tsinghua University
Now DPhil in Finance student, University of Oxford.

The F&E programme is a compass that activates the magnets of knowledge and intelligence, as it features extraordinary academic resources in one of the best finance departments in the world. I chose it over many other alternatives as preparation for Ph.D. study, and this was the best decision I have ever made! At LSE, each professor makes a great effort to explain financial theory clearly and is approachable; giving you the chance to immerse yourself in all aspects of financial economics. Based on broad exploration during the year, I was able to decide my research field for later study.

The programme is rigorous and challenging, summer break before the start is a good time for math refreshing and self-study. Participate in lectures and office hours actively, as you will receive valuable advice from course study to career decisions. The relationship with professors is shaped by you, and it is truly beneficial, as they always support you without reservation.

Hendrik Wagenaar
Bachelor of Science in Economics, University of Mannheim
Now at McKinsey & Company

My undergraduate economics studies and my practical experience in the financial industry shaped my passion for topics in finance and in economics. The possibility to combine these two fascinating fields in my graduate studies attracted me to the MSc Finance and Economics programme at LSE. It is a unique programme in Europe, and perfect for everybody who has a deep interest in both areas.

The F&E programme is challenging and rewarding. I was impressed how the programme manages to prepare the students for so many different careers. The gained knowledge and the broad set of skills allow students to pursue careers in academia, the public and the private sector. In my case, the department gave me all the support I needed to land a consulting job next to my studies.

My advice to future students is to be curious about all the opportunities this programme offers. Make use of the great resources at the university and if you encounter a problem of any kind, there is always somebody to help.

Akanksha Patel
B.Tech (Honours) in Information Technology, Indian Institute of Information Technology
Now an Assistant Vice President in Quantitative Research at Citi

While working as a Trade Execution technology strategist, my interest was piqued to understand the fundamentals and driving forces of financial markets.

The MSc in Finance and Economics course at LSE offered an in-depth understanding of quantitative and intuitive aspects of financial markets, which equipped me excellently for my role as a Quant researcher in the Citi Institutional Clients Group.

My interactions with diverse batchmates, alumni, and professors broadened my perspective and helped me in steering my career in the desired direction.

My advice to future students is to take any academic challenges in a positive spirit and seek support when necessary. Be open to networking with and learning from your fellow batchmates as well as alumni.

Enrico Calabresi
Bachelor in Economics and Business, LUISS Guido Carli University
Now a Business Analyst at McKinsey & Company

I was looking for a challenging and rigorous Master's programme that would keep both the industry and the PhD doors open. The MSc in Finance & Economics at LSE was the natural choice to me, and it turned out to exceed my already high expectations. The programme fully exploits what makes LSE one of the top universities in the world, namely its reputation for ground-breaking impeccable research and its overly successful job placement record. You have the opportunity to make your profile very attractive to employers and at the same time explore the very foundations of Finance and Economics theory. What’s more, you will meet extraordinary people coming from a variety of different backgrounds and having extremely diverse aspirations for their future.

You should make the most of your time in LSE without stressing too much about finding a job. From the academic faculty to the staff, everybody is genuinely interested in your success in the programme and will guide you through it. Be also open to know your fellow students and make friendships that will last far more than your time in London.

Jeremias Huber
Bachelor of Science in Economics, Humboldt University, Berlin
Now a PhD Candidate in Finance at Columbia Business School, previously pre-doctoral Research Assistant at Chicago Booth

While spending an undergraduate exchange year at UC Berkeley, I was drawn to the idea of building economic models of the financial world and pursuing a career in research. With this goal in mind, I chose MSc Finance & Economics, as it provides excellent academic training for students seeking to prepare for PhD studies or research-oriented roles in industry or policy.

The core class Financial Economics was among the main academic highlights for me, and throughout the programme I enjoyed the challenging course work. I have learned from some of the worlds’ leading experts in their fields; to this day I find myself going back and looking at LSE lecture material. On a more personal note, I made close friends amongst my peers, making my time there even more memorable. Lastly, the global nature of LSE’s community greatly contributed to a unique experience.

After F&E I worked as a Research Professional at UChicago Booth for one year before starting my PhD at Columbia Business School. F&E strengthened my ambition to pursue a PhD in Finance and in many helpful ways continues to carry over into my current studies.