William R. Hough Master of Science in Finance 2020-21

RBC Capital Markets, New York, NY

Without the support of our numerous donors to the MSF program, my classmates and I would not have received the outstanding educational experience that we did in our past two years as MSF students. Unique course selection, smaller class sizes and access to the Bloomberg terminals were all vital resources in guiding our success and would not have been possible without donor support. Each of these resources enabled us to better ourselves as students and further our careers. Thank you for making the investment in the futures of students like myself and the many others who will follow me. Your continued support to our MSF Program is greatly appreciated.

Without the support of our numerous donors to the MSF program, my classmates and I would not have received the outstanding educational experience that we did in our past two years as MSF students. Unique course selection, smaller class sizes and access to the Bloomberg terminals were all vital resou... Read More

Without the support of our numerous donors to the MSF program, my classmates and I would not have received the outstanding educational experience that we did in our past two years as MSF students. Unique course selection, smaller class sizes and access to the Bloomberg terminals were all vital resources in guiding our success and would not have been possible without donor support. Each of these resources enabled us to better ourselves as students and further our careers. Thank you for making the investment in the futures of students like myself and the many others who will follow me. Your continued support to our MSF Program is greatly appreciated.

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Wells Fargo Securities, Charlotte, NC

The MSF program placed me in a tremendous position to succeed professionally. While the program allowed me to take advantage of numerous resources, access to older MSF students was perhaps the most beneficial. Despite having their own responsibilities, older students made it clear from the beginning that they were approachable and willing to use their experience to help younger students navigate the internship world. I was unsure which specific track I wanted to pursue within finance and the many sessions older students held to candidly discuss their internship experiences gave me the information I needed to narrow down the options and choose my path. After choosing the investment banking path, I worked to improve my resume based on crucial feedback older students gave me after they reviewed it. The program also held sessions in which I refined my interview skills by practicing both behavioral and technical interview questions with older students who gave up their time to help me build confidence in my answers. Finally, after I ultimately secured my big internship for the summer following my junior year, the older students once again helped by giving advice on performing well to increase the chance of receiving a full-time offer. This process inspired me to do the same and give back by mentoring younger MSF students and helping them along their journey. Watching them secure internships has arguably been even more rewarding than it was to receive my own offer. This cycle is what makes the MSF program truly special.

The MSF program placed me in a tremendous position to succeed professionally. While the program allowed me to take advantage of numerous resources, access to older MSF students was perhaps the most beneficial. Despite having their own responsibilities, older students made it clear from the beginning... Read More

The MSF program placed me in a tremendous position to succeed professionally. While the program allowed me to take advantage of numerous resources, access to older MSF students was perhaps the most beneficial. Despite having their own responsibilities, older students made it clear from the beginning that they were approachable and willing to use their experience to help younger students navigate the internship world. I was unsure which specific track I wanted to pursue within finance and the many sessions older students held to candidly discuss their internship experiences gave me the information I needed to narrow down the options and choose my path. After choosing the investment banking path, I worked to improve my resume based on crucial feedback older students gave me after they reviewed it. The program also held sessions in which I refined my interview skills by practicing both behavioral and technical interview questions with older students who gave up their time to help me build confidence in my answers. Finally, after I ultimately secured my big internship for the summer following my junior year, the older students once again helped by giving advice on performing well to increase the chance of receiving a full-time offer. This process inspired me to do the same and give back by mentoring younger MSF students and helping them along their journey. Watching them secure internships has arguably been even more rewarding than it was to receive my own offer. This cycle is what makes the MSF program truly special.

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UBS, Weehawken, NJ

Dr. Durant’s class, Structuring and Solving Business Problems, is preparation for resolving real-world business issues using tried-and-true problem-solving methods. His participatory teaching style and individual focus on improvement were instrumental in an enjoyable course, and it proved to be an invaluable source of knowledge and skills that I plan on utilizing for the entirety of my career. The values and principles that were also emphasized over its length will play a key role in the decisions that I make in the future. I am thrilled that I had the opportunity to take Dr. Durant’s class and feel more prepared for my career having done so.

Dr. Durant’s class, Structuring and Solving Business Problems, is preparation for resolving real-world business issues using tried-and-true problem-solving methods. His participatory teaching style and individual focus on improvement were instrumental in an enjoyable course, and it proved to be an... Read More

Dr. Durant’s class, Structuring and Solving Business Problems, is preparation for resolving real-world business issues using tried-and-true problem-solving methods. His participatory teaching style and individual focus on improvement were instrumental in an enjoyable course, and it proved to be an invaluable source of knowledge and skills that I plan on utilizing for the entirety of my career. The values and principles that were also emphasized over its length will play a key role in the decisions that I make in the future. I am thrilled that I had the opportunity to take Dr. Durant’s class and feel more prepared for my career having done so.

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Citi Private Bank, New York, NY

I am the Co-President of Diversity in Banking and Securities, an organization aimed at helping bring diversity to Wall Street by giving Gators of all backgrounds the necessary means and resources to excel in banking. Last year, I was part of the Executive Board that founded the organization on campus and being able to see the difference it made for so many students inspired me to take on this position and further shape the culture of future bankers at UF.

I am the Co-President of Diversity in Banking and Securities, an organization aimed at helping bring diversity to Wall Street by giving Gators of all backgrounds the necessary means and resources to excel in banking. Last year, I was part of the Executive Board that founded the organization on campu... Read More

I am the Co-President of Diversity in Banking and Securities, an organization aimed at helping bring diversity to Wall Street by giving Gators of all backgrounds the necessary means and resources to excel in banking. Last year, I was part of the Executive Board that founded the organization on campus and being able to see the difference it made for so many students inspired me to take on this position and further shape the culture of future bankers at UF.

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Continuing education

The Finance Professional Speaker Series is an integral part of the MSF program and was a driving factor for me to join the program. As a young student the best way to learn the ins and outs of a new space is to be immersed within the topic, and every Friday during the semester I had the chance to be immersed within a new niche of finance. The Speaker Series gives many current students an inside look at various jobs, roles and functions in the ever-expanding world of finance. I am thankful for our esteemed alumni and other finance professionals for their willingness to share their experiences with the MSF community and I look forward to coming back to speak in the near future!

The Finance Professional Speaker Series is an integral part of the MSF program and was a driving factor for me to join the program. As a young student the best way to learn the ins and outs of a new space is to be immersed within the topic, and every Friday during the semester I had the chance to be... Read More

The Finance Professional Speaker Series is an integral part of the MSF program and was a driving factor for me to join the program. As a young student the best way to learn the ins and outs of a new space is to be immersed within the topic, and every Friday during the semester I had the chance to be immersed within a new niche of finance. The Speaker Series gives many current students an inside look at various jobs, roles and functions in the ever-expanding world of finance. I am thankful for our esteemed alumni and other finance professionals for their willingness to share their experiences with the MSF community and I look forward to coming back to speak in the near future!

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Wells Fargo Securities, Charlotte, NC

With COVID-19 keeping us out of the classroom, MSF professors were challenged with finding new ways to deliver the classes necessary to prepare students for their full-time jobs in the highly competitive finance industry. Fortunately, MSF professors were able to adapt and overcome this challenge, effectively making the transition to hosting classes virtually via Zoom. This would not have been possible without the commitment to learning that each MSF student possesses. During the pandemic, MSF students demonstrated their drive to excel in their future professions by continuing to give themselves to their classes, even when physical attendance was not possible. The era of COVID-19 was and still is a challenge for all of us, but in the case of the MSF program, it proved that its professors and students are able to work together to create an exceptional learning environment, even in the most trying times.

With COVID-19 keeping us out of the classroom, MSF professors were challenged with finding new ways to deliver the classes necessary to prepare students for their full-time jobs in the highly competitive finance industry. Fortunately, MSF professors were able to adapt and overcome this challenge, ef... Read More

With COVID-19 keeping us out of the classroom, MSF professors were challenged with finding new ways to deliver the classes necessary to prepare students for their full-time jobs in the highly competitive finance industry. Fortunately, MSF professors were able to adapt and overcome this challenge, effectively making the transition to hosting classes virtually via Zoom. This would not have been possible without the commitment to learning that each MSF student possesses. During the pandemic, MSF students demonstrated their drive to excel in their future professions by continuing to give themselves to their classes, even when physical attendance was not possible. The era of COVID-19 was and still is a challenge for all of us, but in the case of the MSF program, it proved that its professors and students are able to work together to create an exceptional learning environment, even in the most trying times.

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Truist, Charlotte, NC

Heavener Peer Advisors are tasked with the unique role of advising first-year business students on class advice, involvement opportunities, and will map a four-year academic plan to ensure a timely graduation. The program gave me a chance to give back to my community at UF by giving first-hand guidance on how to properly tackle college.

Heavener Peer Advisors are tasked with the unique role of advising first-year business students on class advice, involvement opportunities, and will map a four-year academic plan to ensure a timely graduation. The program gave me a chance to give back to my community at UF by giving first-hand guida... Read More

Heavener Peer Advisors are tasked with the unique role of advising first-year business students on class advice, involvement opportunities, and will map a four-year academic plan to ensure a timely graduation. The program gave me a chance to give back to my community at UF by giving first-hand guidance on how to properly tackle college.

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Singer M. Tucker, New York, NY

An experience that has been integral to my personal and professional growth throughout my four years at UF was my involvement with the Leadership Development Program. I was granted a wealth of knowledge from my upperclassmen mentors that prepared me to excel in both academic and professional settings. As an upperclassman, becoming a Leadership Ambassador allowed me to pass along the guidance I had gained from my mentors and my own experiences to the classes below me. This program taught me early on just how valuable a well-built network can be and played a key role in fostering not only professional relationships, but personal as well.

An experience that has been integral to my personal and professional growth throughout my four years at UF was my involvement with the Leadership Development Program. I was granted a wealth of knowledge from my upperclassmen mentors that prepared me to excel in both academic and professional setting... Read More

An experience that has been integral to my personal and professional growth throughout my four years at UF was my involvement with the Leadership Development Program. I was granted a wealth of knowledge from my upperclassmen mentors that prepared me to excel in both academic and professional settings. As an upperclassman, becoming a Leadership Ambassador allowed me to pass along the guidance I had gained from my mentors and my own experiences to the classes below me. This program taught me early on just how valuable a well-built network can be and played a key role in fostering not only professional relationships, but personal as well.

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Global Atlantic Financial Group, New York, NY

The hands-on nature of the MSF coursework and dedication from instructors prepared me far greater than I could have expected for my junior summer internship. From incorporating the usage of Bloomberg terminals and live data into many projects, to learning how to build advanced models to evaluate recent mergers and acquisitions or popular investment opportunities, the exposure to tools and practices used in a professional setting has been incredible. I was able to hit the ground running during my summer internship and impress my managers with the knowledge and experience already gained through the MSF program, even amidst the virtual aspect. The senior year coursework only continued this trend, from Dr. Brown’s capstone course allowing us to manage a portfolio with a small team, to Dr. Brask’s course teaching us more detailed nuances of various investment techniques. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to take advantage of these resources and close mentorship from instructors, as they have provided an excellent foundation to begin my career in the asset management industry.

The hands-on nature of the MSF coursework and dedication from instructors prepared me far greater than I could have expected for my junior summer internship. From incorporating the usage of Bloomberg terminals and live data into many projects, to learning how to build advanced models to evaluate rec... Read More

The hands-on nature of the MSF coursework and dedication from instructors prepared me far greater than I could have expected for my junior summer internship. From incorporating the usage of Bloomberg terminals and live data into many projects, to learning how to build advanced models to evaluate recent mergers and acquisitions or popular investment opportunities, the exposure to tools and practices used in a professional setting has been incredible. I was able to hit the ground running during my summer internship and impress my managers with the knowledge and experience already gained through the MSF program, even amidst the virtual aspect. The senior year coursework only continued this trend, from Dr. Brown’s capstone course allowing us to manage a portfolio with a small team, to Dr. Brask’s course teaching us more detailed nuances of various investment techniques. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to take advantage of these resources and close mentorship from instructors, as they have provided an excellent foundation to begin my career in the asset management industry.

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Wells Fargo Securities, Charlotte, NC

The MSF program provides many great opportunities that are made possible through the support of donors. I am grateful for the small class sizes, access to Bloomberg terminals, and wide selection of courses. These unique aspects of the program not only created a better educational experience, but also made me better equipped for my internship this past summer. Thank you to all the donors who made this experience possible.

The MSF program provides many great opportunities that are made possible through the support of donors. I am grateful for the small class sizes, access to Bloomberg terminals, and wide selection of courses. These unique aspects of the program not only created a better educational experience, but als... Read More

The MSF program provides many great opportunities that are made possible through the support of donors. I am grateful for the small class sizes, access to Bloomberg terminals, and wide selection of courses. These unique aspects of the program not only created a better educational experience, but also made me better equipped for my internship this past summer. Thank you to all the donors who made this experience possible.

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RBC Capital Markets, New York, NY

The MSF program provided me a tremendous amount of opportunities, both professionally and personally. Upon acceptance into the program, I was eager to figure out the best way to give back to the MSF program. It became evident that mentoring students in the Exploring Financial Economics program was a great way to have an immediate impact on the MSF program. Even though I was in the EFE students’ position a couple of years prior, I felt that acting as a confidant on specific situations, providing antidotal experiences broadly, and assisting with interview prep, helped the EFE students through many of the questions and concerns that I once had. The best part of this mentorship were the relationships I built with these students, and I am looking forward to keeping these friendships many years down the road.

The MSF program provided me a tremendous amount of opportunities, both professionally and personally. Upon acceptance into the program, I was eager to figure out the best way to give back to the MSF program. It became evident that mentoring students in the Exploring Financial Economics program was a... Read More

The MSF program provided me a tremendous amount of opportunities, both professionally and personally. Upon acceptance into the program, I was eager to figure out the best way to give back to the MSF program. It became evident that mentoring students in the Exploring Financial Economics program was a great way to have an immediate impact on the MSF program. Even though I was in the EFE students’ position a couple of years prior, I felt that acting as a confidant on specific situations, providing antidotal experiences broadly, and assisting with interview prep, helped the EFE students through many of the questions and concerns that I once had. The best part of this mentorship were the relationships I built with these students, and I am looking forward to keeping these friendships many years down the road.

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Boston Consulting Group, Miami

The MSF program has provided me with many valuable experiences, such as being able to work in private equity my sophomore summer. This internship provided me with excellent financial and technical experience in a field that is extremely difficult to achieve placement without the connections and alumni resources offered by our program. During my recent internship with Boston Consulting Group, I never felt behind or less prepared than my fellow interns who often hailed from “more prestigious” schools. Given that BCG is a top 3 management consulting firm worldwide, they are highly selective and usually only target students from the top echelon of public and private universities. When I start full-time at BCG this summer, I will be surrounded by graduates from the best universities in America, and the world.

The MSF program has provided me with many valuable experiences, such as being able to work in private equity my sophomore summer. This internship provided me with excellent financial and technical experience in a field that is extremely difficult to achieve placement without the connections and alum... Read More

The MSF program has provided me with many valuable experiences, such as being able to work in private equity my sophomore summer. This internship provided me with excellent financial and technical experience in a field that is extremely difficult to achieve placement without the connections and alumni resources offered by our program. During my recent internship with Boston Consulting Group, I never felt behind or less prepared than my fellow interns who often hailed from “more prestigious” schools. Given that BCG is a top 3 management consulting firm worldwide, they are highly selective and usually only target students from the top echelon of public and private universities. When I start full-time at BCG this summer, I will be surrounded by graduates from the best universities in America, and the world.

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Truist, New York, NY

When I reflect upon my time at the University of Florida, my involvement with MSF strongly stands out as a defining part of my development. Through MSF, I was given a strong foundation of financial knowledge and real experience to build my career around. Along with the amazing education and professional development, I am proud of the people I have met. I would not be where I am today professionally or personally without the professors, staff, and friends that I have gotten to know through the program.

When I reflect upon my time at the University of Florida, my involvement with MSF strongly stands out as a defining part of my development. Through MSF, I was given a strong foundation of financial knowledge and real experience to build my career around. Along with the amazing education and professi... Read More

When I reflect upon my time at the University of Florida, my involvement with MSF strongly stands out as a defining part of my development. Through MSF, I was given a strong foundation of financial knowledge and real experience to build my career around. Along with the amazing education and professional development, I am proud of the people I have met. I would not be where I am today professionally or personally without the professors, staff, and friends that I have gotten to know through the program.

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Evercore Partners, New York, NY

Coming to UF as an intimidated freshman during the Fall of 2017, the Gator Student-Run Investment Fund provided me with a community of like-minded, motivated individuals that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. From my time an analyst to my time as a portfolio manager, the learning opportunity never dissipated. It’s rare to find such an amazing organization that gives one the opportunity to follow, lead, and make an impact on those around them. GSIF defined my college experience and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Coming to UF as an intimidated freshman during the Fall of 2017, the Gator Student-Run Investment Fund provided me with a community of like-minded, motivated individuals that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. From my time an analyst to my time as a portfolio manager, the learning opportunity never d... Read More

Coming to UF as an intimidated freshman during the Fall of 2017, the Gator Student-Run Investment Fund provided me with a community of like-minded, motivated individuals that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. From my time an analyst to my time as a portfolio manager, the learning opportunity never dissipated. It’s rare to find such an amazing organization that gives one the opportunity to follow, lead, and make an impact on those around them. GSIF defined my college experience and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

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Honeywell, TBD

The MSF program provided me an excellent opportunity to learn the skills needed to thrive in the finance community. The program set me up for success in gaining employment post-graduation and making connections with outstanding individuals through its Finance Professional Speaker Series. I appreciate all MSF has given to me.

The MSF program provided me an excellent opportunity to learn the skills needed to thrive in the finance community. The program set me up for success in gaining employment post-graduation and making connections with outstanding individuals through its Finance Professional Speaker Series. I appreciat... Read More

The MSF program provided me an excellent opportunity to learn the skills needed to thrive in the finance community. The program set me up for success in gaining employment post-graduation and making connections with outstanding individuals through its Finance Professional Speaker Series. I appreciate all MSF has given to me.

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RBC Sales & Trading, New York, NY

Going into a remote Sales & Trading internship, I wasn’t sure what to expect. With everything surrounding the global pandemic happening at once and RBC having to rapidly adjust their 10-week summer internship program, I knew my experience would be different, and I was a little nervous with how I was going to be able to prove my capableness. I was quickly reassured once hitting the desk for my first rotation that I had a leg up from using a Bloomberg terminal in Dr. Takeda’s Special Topics course. Without the experience from her class, I don’t think I would have been as confident and comfortable trying to navigate Bloomberg remotely. On top of using Bloomberg, Dr. Takeda’s Special Topics course also assisted me in understanding the more complex concepts that were addressed on the Rates Sales desk. I felt prepared when concepts like yield curve, carry-trades and pricing bonds were brought up, because I had previous exposure through her class and other MSF courses. I heavily credit classes like Dr. Takeda’s as the reason I was able to stand out in my internship and receive a return offer, and I am very grateful for her and my other professors’ dedication to helping their students fully grasp difficult concepts.

Going into a remote Sales & Trading internship, I wasn’t sure what to expect. With everything surrounding the global pandemic happening at once and RBC having to rapidly adjust their 10-week summer internship program, I knew my experience would be different, and I was a little nervous with how... Read More

Going into a remote Sales & Trading internship, I wasn’t sure what to expect. With everything surrounding the global pandemic happening at once and RBC having to rapidly adjust their 10-week summer internship program, I knew my experience would be different, and I was a little nervous with how I was going to be able to prove my capableness. I was quickly reassured once hitting the desk for my first rotation that I had a leg up from using a Bloomberg terminal in Dr. Takeda’s Special Topics course. Without the experience from her class, I don’t think I would have been as confident and comfortable trying to navigate Bloomberg remotely. On top of using Bloomberg, Dr. Takeda’s Special Topics course also assisted me in understanding the more complex concepts that were addressed on the Rates Sales desk. I felt prepared when concepts like yield curve, carry-trades and pricing bonds were brought up, because I had previous exposure through her class and other MSF courses. I heavily credit classes like Dr. Takeda’s as the reason I was able to stand out in my internship and receive a return offer, and I am very grateful for her and my other professors’ dedication to helping their students fully grasp difficult concepts.

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Evercore, New York, NY

The MSF program not only boasts an impressive curriculum but also promotes an extremely valuable culture wherein its members are truly part of the same team. Year after year, students in the program seem to choose collaboration over unhealthy competition, which makes the experience much more enjoyable. Older students are also routinely happy to mentor younger students or even applicants to the program. Through fostering this culture, Dr. Brown and Mrs. Herring have made an engine for the MSF program to rapidly progress year after year – it is really exciting to think about what it might look like 5 to 10 years from now.

The MSF program not only boasts an impressive curriculum but also promotes an extremely valuable culture wherein its members are truly part of the same team. Year after year, students in the program seem to choose collaboration over unhealthy competition, which makes the experience much more enjoyab... Read More

The MSF program not only boasts an impressive curriculum but also promotes an extremely valuable culture wherein its members are truly part of the same team. Year after year, students in the program seem to choose collaboration over unhealthy competition, which makes the experience much more enjoyable. Older students are also routinely happy to mentor younger students or even applicants to the program. Through fostering this culture, Dr. Brown and Mrs. Herring have made an engine for the MSF program to rapidly progress year after year – it is really exciting to think about what it might look like 5 to 10 years from now.

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RBC Capital Markets, New York, NY

While most people looked at the COVID19 pandemic as a negative occurrence in our lives, I found that some positive things occurred despite the fact my classes were online. This includes discovering new hobbies and interests that I was not able to pursue while in traditional classes. I was able to focus more on my physical goals in the gym, read books that I couldn’t get to before, and try new activities like go-karting and skydiving. The online classes also provided me more time to connect with old friends and even new ones that I met through MSF. Overall, while adjusting to online classes was tough at the beginning, it allowed me to learn more about myself and who I wanted to be as I continue my career after UF.

While most people looked at the COVID19 pandemic as a negative occurrence in our lives, I found that some positive things occurred despite the fact my classes were online. This includes discovering new hobbies and interests that I was not able to pursue while in traditional classes. I was able to fo... Read More

While most people looked at the COVID19 pandemic as a negative occurrence in our lives, I found that some positive things occurred despite the fact my classes were online. This includes discovering new hobbies and interests that I was not able to pursue while in traditional classes. I was able to focus more on my physical goals in the gym, read books that I couldn’t get to before, and try new activities like go-karting and skydiving. The online classes also provided me more time to connect with old friends and even new ones that I met through MSF. Overall, while adjusting to online classes was tough at the beginning, it allowed me to learn more about myself and who I wanted to be as I continue my career after UF.

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Citi Sales & Trading, New York, NY

Dr. Brown’s junior year course sequence covered fixed income and interest rate topics. Dr. Brown did an astounding job introducing new topics while continuing a deeper dive until mastery. The course material taught during this series led to the MSF students gaining an upper hand during their summer internships. While I was on the desk, the background knowledge acquired from Dr. Brown’s courses allowed easier understanding and communication about complex products within the rates sector. During this internship, we were tasked with pitching multiple trade ideas. I felt like the background gained from this course series made me more comfortable handling complex rates products. This gave me an advantage and allowed me to stand out compared to other interns during these pitches. I strongly attest a big portion of my return offer to Dr. Brown’s course sequence. Without it, I believe I would have struggled to stand out given limited knowledge of the topics prior to the courses.

Dr. Brown’s junior year course sequence covered fixed income and interest rate topics. Dr. Brown did an astounding job introducing new topics while continuing a deeper dive until mastery. The course material taught during this series led to the MSF students gaining an upper hand during their summe... Read More

Dr. Brown’s junior year course sequence covered fixed income and interest rate topics. Dr. Brown did an astounding job introducing new topics while continuing a deeper dive until mastery. The course material taught during this series led to the MSF students gaining an upper hand during their summer internships. While I was on the desk, the background knowledge acquired from Dr. Brown’s courses allowed easier understanding and communication about complex products within the rates sector. During this internship, we were tasked with pitching multiple trade ideas. I felt like the background gained from this course series made me more comfortable handling complex rates products. This gave me an advantage and allowed me to stand out compared to other interns during these pitches. I strongly attest a big portion of my return offer to Dr. Brown’s course sequence. Without it, I believe I would have struggled to stand out given limited knowledge of the topics prior to the courses.

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JPMorgan, Palm Beach, FL

I served on the executive board of Student Investment Club for 4 semesters, including Technical Director and President, overseeing transformation of the club to bi-weekly educational sessions to supplement usual speaker series. They make PowerPoint presentations and participate in discussions to grow their financial knowledge, learn how markets operate and make investment decisions. Making this addition to the club was very important to me because I am a firm believer that everyone should have a general understanding of how to analyze the market and invest in the financial markets. The most profound moments were from students sharing the impact that the club had on their financial passion and confidence applying for jobs. One of the most memorable student interactions I had was when an architecture major told me that he had never had any exposure to finance or the stock market until attending our meetings, and once he started attending, he realized that he enjoyed finance more than architecture and switched his major to finance. Seeing that I could make a tangible impact on our members and help them grow their financial knowledge base was my favorite part of serving on the executive board of SIC.

I served on the executive board of Student Investment Club for 4 semesters, including Technical Director and President, overseeing transformation of the club to bi-weekly educational sessions to supplement usual speaker series. They make PowerPoint presentations and participate in discussions to gro... Read More

I served on the executive board of Student Investment Club for 4 semesters, including Technical Director and President, overseeing transformation of the club to bi-weekly educational sessions to supplement usual speaker series. They make PowerPoint presentations and participate in discussions to grow their financial knowledge, learn how markets operate and make investment decisions. Making this addition to the club was very important to me because I am a firm believer that everyone should have a general understanding of how to analyze the market and invest in the financial markets. The most profound moments were from students sharing the impact that the club had on their financial passion and confidence applying for jobs. One of the most memorable student interactions I had was when an architecture major told me that he had never had any exposure to finance or the stock market until attending our meetings, and once he started attending, he realized that he enjoyed finance more than architecture and switched his major to finance. Seeing that I could make a tangible impact on our members and help them grow their financial knowledge base was my favorite part of serving on the executive board of SIC.

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RBC Capital Markets, New York, NY

My time in the Gator Student Investment Fund was definitely the most helpful and important part of my college experience. The ability to learn complex finance topics and engage in meaningful work from as early as freshman year provided me a significant leg up in my academic and job recruiting experience. Additionally, older students were incredibly supportive and remain strong personal and professional connections. I am very appreciative of Dr. Brown and the GSIF Board of Directors for creating and maintaining this opportunity for UF students and am looking forward to seeing how the fund progresses in the coming years.

My time in the Gator Student Investment Fund was definitely the most helpful and important part of my college experience. The ability to learn complex finance topics and engage in meaningful work from as early as freshman year provided me a significant leg up in my academic and job recruiting experi... Read More

My time in the Gator Student Investment Fund was definitely the most helpful and important part of my college experience. The ability to learn complex finance topics and engage in meaningful work from as early as freshman year provided me a significant leg up in my academic and job recruiting experience. Additionally, older students were incredibly supportive and remain strong personal and professional connections. I am very appreciative of Dr. Brown and the GSIF Board of Directors for creating and maintaining this opportunity for UF students and am looking forward to seeing how the fund progresses in the coming years.

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Citi Private Bank, New York, NY

Founders Fund gave me the opportunity to develop myself substantially both professionally and personally. Working alongside other students in my sector, I got a hands-on learning experience constructing and presenting a stock pitch to the rest of the Fund. It was a fantastic way to deepen my understanding of finance topics I had learned in my graduate coursework. In addition, I learned a lot about the economy, equity markets, and investing, and was surrounded with intelligent like-minded individuals to discuss these topics. I also enjoyed mentoring younger students in the Fund. I believe my experience in this organization helped me stand out in my internships to eventually get a full-time offer.

Founders Fund gave me the opportunity to develop myself substantially both professionally and personally. Working alongside other students in my sector, I got a hands-on learning experience constructing and presenting a stock pitch to the rest of the Fund. It was a fantastic way to deepen my underst... Read More

Founders Fund gave me the opportunity to develop myself substantially both professionally and personally. Working alongside other students in my sector, I got a hands-on learning experience constructing and presenting a stock pitch to the rest of the Fund. It was a fantastic way to deepen my understanding of finance topics I had learned in my graduate coursework. In addition, I learned a lot about the economy, equity markets, and investing, and was surrounded with intelligent like-minded individuals to discuss these topics. I also enjoyed mentoring younger students in the Fund. I believe my experience in this organization helped me stand out in my internships to eventually get a full-time offer.

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Citi Private Bank, New York, NY

I joined Founders Fund during my sophomore spring semester. I was quickly immersed in a fast-paced environment with many intellectually curious and driven students. I joined the organization knowing very little about valuing a company, let alone actually pitching a company. With the help of mentors and executive members within the fund, I was able to dive straight into technical content and create in-depth analysis for companies within my sector while also gaining the experience of pitching original ideas to a large, professional group. I was able to learn quickly and enjoyed the work I was doing. I excelled in the organization and led my own sectors. From this experience, I was able to help the younger students while gaining expertise in certain areas. Looking back on the experience, I credit Founder’s Fund in combination with the MSF program with giving me the technical experience necessary to set myself apart from other students in the interviewing process.

I joined Founders Fund during my sophomore spring semester. I was quickly immersed in a fast-paced environment with many intellectually curious and driven students. I joined the organization knowing very little about valuing a company, let alone actually pitching a company. With the help of mentors ... Read More

I joined Founders Fund during my sophomore spring semester. I was quickly immersed in a fast-paced environment with many intellectually curious and driven students. I joined the organization knowing very little about valuing a company, let alone actually pitching a company. With the help of mentors and executive members within the fund, I was able to dive straight into technical content and create in-depth analysis for companies within my sector while also gaining the experience of pitching original ideas to a large, professional group. I was able to learn quickly and enjoyed the work I was doing. I excelled in the organization and led my own sectors. From this experience, I was able to help the younger students while gaining expertise in certain areas. Looking back on the experience, I credit Founder’s Fund in combination with the MSF program with giving me the technical experience necessary to set myself apart from other students in the interviewing process.

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Salesforces, Atlanta, GA

Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Boca Raton, FL

Stephens, Atlanta, GA

Dr. Parrino’s Investment Banking and Corporate Financial Modeling course was extremely helpful preparing for my junior summer internship in Houlihan Lokey’s investment banking division. I was certainly better prepared for many of the assignments than my internship peers. The course assignments, especially the final project in which we pitched an M&A transaction, directly mirrored the work that I did on the job.

Dr. Parrino’s Investment Banking and Corporate Financial Modeling course was extremely helpful preparing for my junior summer internship in Houlihan Lokey’s investment banking division. I was certainly better prepared for many of the assignments than my internship peers. The course assignments, ... Read More

Dr. Parrino’s Investment Banking and Corporate Financial Modeling course was extremely helpful preparing for my junior summer internship in Houlihan Lokey’s investment banking division. I was certainly better prepared for many of the assignments than my internship peers. The course assignments, especially the final project in which we pitched an M&A transaction, directly mirrored the work that I did on the job.

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Boston Consulting Group, Miami, FL

Having the opportunity to receive an internship and a full-time position with BCG is truly remarkable. This was made clear to me by seeing the lack of representation from state schools in my summer intern class, as most students came from well-regarded private universities such as Harvard, UPenn, MIT, and Georgetown.

Having the opportunity to receive an internship and a full-time position with BCG is truly remarkable. This was made clear to me by seeing the lack of representation from state schools in my summer intern class, as most students came from well-regarded private universities such as Harvard, UPenn, MI... Read More

Having the opportunity to receive an internship and a full-time position with BCG is truly remarkable. This was made clear to me by seeing the lack of representation from state schools in my summer intern class, as most students came from well-regarded private universities such as Harvard, UPenn, MIT, and Georgetown.

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Wells Fargo Securities, Charlotte, NC

Family has always been important for me, and because my father works in the finance industry, I was motivated to pursue a similar career path. Initially, I was uncertain about where I wanted to work or more specifically what I wanted to do and as a result I applied to different internships hoping to gain insight. Experience is the best guide to understanding what you enjoy both in and outside of the workplace. Through my past internships in both an accounting firm and a wealth management firm, I better understood the type of work and number of hours which I am most comfortable. From here, I made the determination that I would enjoy working longer hours right out of college to accumulate knowledge and experience which fits the Investment Banking career path. I gained exposure to the Investment Banking track through the MSF program’s coursework and speaker series which inspired me to apply for an Investment Banking internship at Wells Fargo. I now have a full time offer as an Investment Banking Analyst in Charlotte with Wells Fargo in part due to the information and understanding of the job I gained in the MSF program.

Family has always been important for me, and because my father works in the finance industry, I was motivated to pursue a similar career path. Initially, I was uncertain about where I wanted to work or more specifically what I wanted to do and as a result I applied to different internships hoping to... Read More

Family has always been important for me, and because my father works in the finance industry, I was motivated to pursue a similar career path. Initially, I was uncertain about where I wanted to work or more specifically what I wanted to do and as a result I applied to different internships hoping to gain insight. Experience is the best guide to understanding what you enjoy both in and outside of the workplace. Through my past internships in both an accounting firm and a wealth management firm, I better understood the type of work and number of hours which I am most comfortable. From here, I made the determination that I would enjoy working longer hours right out of college to accumulate knowledge and experience which fits the Investment Banking career path. I gained exposure to the Investment Banking track through the MSF program’s coursework and speaker series which inspired me to apply for an Investment Banking internship at Wells Fargo. I now have a full time offer as an Investment Banking Analyst in Charlotte with Wells Fargo in part due to the information and understanding of the job I gained in the MSF program.

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Wells Fargo Securities, Charlotte, NC

The MSF Program has been a focal point of my time at the University of Florida. In addition to being a student-athlete, I am grateful to have been a part of a niche group of individuals with a strong academic focus and interest in financial careers. The program was instrumental in my career placement and helped facilitate a smooth transition from sports to a professional career.

The MSF Program has been a focal point of my time at the University of Florida. In addition to being a student-athlete, I am grateful to have been a part of a niche group of individuals with a strong academic focus and interest in financial careers. The program was instrumental in my career placemen... Read More

The MSF Program has been a focal point of my time at the University of Florida. In addition to being a student-athlete, I am grateful to have been a part of a niche group of individuals with a strong academic focus and interest in financial careers. The program was instrumental in my career placement and helped facilitate a smooth transition from sports to a professional career.

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