Executive Summary id="executive-summary"
About the Master of Science in Finance program
The Master of Science in Finance (MSF) program started in 2001 and has evolved to primarily a combination degree program for students from various University of Florida undergraduate degree programs wanting to complete both their undergraduate degree and a Master of Science in Finance degree within four years.
UF undergraduate students apply during their second year on campus and begin MSF courses in their third year. Students take graduate-level finance courses alongside MBA and other finance students, in lieu of some undergraduate degree courses. Students intern the summer after their third year with the firm they plan to return to full time after graduation. Most MSF students come from undergraduate finance, accounting, economics and mathematics programs.
The MSF program also serves students who want access to Ph.D. courses or a joint degree from the UF Levin College of Law.
From the Director's Desk
The 2022-2023 academic year was eventful.
The largest class in program history graduated this May. Fifty seniors graduated, which is almost double the historical average. Placements and the maturity of the Class of 2023 were on par with previous classes. The ability to offer the MSF experience to larger cohorts is the result of strong incoming University of Florida freshman classes, the efforts of Kelly Herring and the faculty teaching in the program, and alumni financial support.
Class sizes of around 50 will continue in the years to come. High performing Gators are a rapidly growing force in finance.
Strong and practical instruction embraced by the students enrolled in the program has been the cornerstone of the MSF program. However, the program instruction must continue to evolve. To that end, enhancements to the program curriculum were made in the 2022-2023 academic year: elective courses in Behavioral Finance and Machine Learning were offered, and computer programing was integrated into one of the core courses.
Sincerely,
David Brown, PhD
Director, Master of Science in Finance program
MSF stands among nation’s elite
The MSF program remained in the nation’s top 10 graduate finance programs on the QS 2023 Master’s in Finance rankings.
For the fourth consecutive year, the MSF program was named No. 6 among the ranked U.S. programs (No. 4 among U.S. public schools), following the University of California – Los Angeles, the University of California – Berkeley and the University of Texas – Austin.
Among global master’s degree programs in finance, the UF MSF program was named the No. 31 program out of the 189 ranked global programs, securing its spot in the top 16 percent of international master’s programs in finance.
Class Overview
The MSF program continues to grow the quality and diversity of its students.
Class of | Size | Average SAT | Average GPA | Diversity |
---|---|---|---|---|
2021 | 29 | 1420 | 3.73 | 31% |
2022 | 37 | 1449 | 3.89 | 32% |
2023 | 54 | 1452 | 3.90 | 41% |
2024 | 50 | 1442 | 3.88 | 52% |
2025 | 50 | 1465 | 3.89 | 42% |
GSIF id="gif"
Investing in the best
The Gator Student Investment Fund (GSIF) is a student-managed investment fund that gives members a realistic asset management experience. Students work with real capital and deploy it in value-oriented domestic equities while actively managing portfolio risk.
Academics id="academics"
Prepared for the future
MSF students are prepared for the finance industry through their time in the program. They learn daily about the industry and receive the best training possible to be immediate contributors on their first day of a job or internship.
Incoming MSF Class of 2025
Rising MSF juniors are spending their summer working in sophomore summer opportunities with these companies. Thank you to UF alumni that helped make these experiences happen.
- ADT, Boca Raton
- Allstate, remote
- Amazon, Harrisburg
- Amazon, Seattle
- Bank of America, NYC (2)
- Bank of Montreal, NYC
- Bayshore Capital, Tampa
- Beach Point Capital, St. Petersburg
- Elion Partners, Miami
- Energy Impact Partners, NYC
- Enhanced Retail Solutions, NYC
- Ernst & Young, Atlanta
- FNB Corporation, Pittsburgh
- Freepoint Commodities, Stamford
- Jefferies, NYC (2)
- JM Family, Deerfield Beach
- Koss Olinger, Gainesville
- Lightning Partners, Orlando (2)
- Lorient Capital, Miami
- NextEra Energy, Juno Beach
- NeXtGen Biologics, Gainesville (2)
- Northrop Grumman, DC
- Ocean Blue, Miami
- Pacific Coast Capital Partners, Atlanta
- Pickard Poser Wealth Management, Miami
- Public Pension Capital, NYC
- Raymond James, St. Petersburg
- Royal Caribbean, Miami
- Silver Mile Capital, London
- The Federal Reserve Bank, NYC
- University of Florida Investment Corporation, Gainesville
- World Toilet Organization, Singapore
Bruce Foerster retiring
Bruce Foerster taught the MSF Capitalism course for 20 years. Every year, Bruce’s course culminated with a panel, sponsored by BB&T Foundations of Free Enterprise: Capitalism and Capital Markets. This year’s topic was: Amtrack at 51+ Years of Age – Is This Any Way to Run a Railroad? It was moderated by Jay R. Ritter, PhD, Joe B. Cordell Eminent Scholar Chair, University of Florida.
Other members of the panel were:
- Geoffrey H. Doughty, life-long railroad executive and co-author AMTRAK – America’s Railroad – Transportation’s Orphan and Its Struggle for Survival
- Jim Mathews, President & CEO, Rail Passengers Association (formerly NARP), a 501(c)(3) advocate for all U.S. transit and commuter rail passengers
- Ruth Steiner, Professor and Director, Center for Health and the Built Environment, research on transportation and its impact on land use, University of Florida
In addition to teaching, Bruce has annually hosted a series of round tables for students to learn about areas of the finance industry.
Upon his retirement from UF, Saby Mitra, Dean, Warrington College of Business, and Dave Brown thanked Bruce for his contribution. He was awarded, Distinction of University of Florida Honorary Alumnus.
Engagement id="engagement"
Staying connected
Many MSF alumni remained closely connected to the program and give their time to help the next generation of students learn about the finance industry.
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Dillon Knox
Vice President, RBC Capital Markets
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Joshua Rosenbaum
Managing Director, RBC Capital Markets
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Robert J. Cousin
Managing Director, J.P. Morgan
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Thomas Ball
Co-Founder and Managing Director, Next Coast Ventures
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Tapan Buch
Vice President & Assistant Treasurer, Procter & Gamble
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Phil Smith
Operating Partner, Altaris Capital Partners
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Joseph Theriac
Director, Finance & Investor Relations, Enterprise Products Partners L.P.
$25,000+
- Alan S. & Barbara A. Pareira
$10,000 - $24,999
- Adams Homes
- Janice F. & Charles F. Cellier
- Saul Goodman
- Catherine T. & Peter L. Gylfe*
$5,000 - $9,999
- Robert C.* & Kelly M. Arditi
- Daniel L. & Lindsay R. Beiley
- Russell Carpenter
- Marta Cotton
- Kyle J. Deasy*
- Steven B.* & Kimberly B. DeRose
- Thomas A. Horkan III & Zandra P. Horkan
- Brian D. & Julie Peller
$2,000 - $4,999
- Canon Coleman II & Lisa D. Coleman
- Roy R. & Gayle S. Dickson
- Steven M. & Natalie E. Raney
- Laurence R. Smith & Margaret Saba-Smith
- Matthew J. Steffes
$500 - $1,999
- Robert G. & Catherine C. Abood
- Michael J.* & Lauren B. Andreas
- Randy & Sheryl E. Appleyard
- Brennan A.* & Emily E. Bubp
- Andrew N. Cappello Jr.*
- David Deckman*
- Andrew S. Devenbeck*
- Desi DiPierro*
- Crystal S. Gao*
- David R. & Nicole D. Geller
- Kevin A. Mesmer*
- Christopher A.* & Justine M. Noth
- Kristin E.* & Matthew M. Olson
- Brent M. Penter*
- Ronald P. Smith*
- Brenden M. Vickers*
- Andrew S.* & Melissa M. Winner
- Haiyan Wu* & Zhiwen Tang
$1 - $499
- Arif H. Ahmed
- Joshua A. Berry*
- Dr. David T. Brown
- Keene Chau*
- Avi S. Dahan*
- Anand N. Dhuldhoya* & Dr. Shachi D. Zaveri
- Morgan A. Eddy*
- Eric L. & Dr. Karyn G. Herndon
- Rashit M. Ismail & Mona El Alaoui
- Joseph T. Kersanac*
- Jeffrey S. Masse*
- Abraham A.* & Kristina P. Ouano
- David A. Pinsky*
- Eric B. Rabinowitz
- Jesse Rosenblum*
- Daniel S.* & Laura G. Sanborn
- Adam M.* & Emily D. Schiff
- Nicholas J. Sorenson*
- Perry Steele
- Sarahanna Thomas*
- Mitchell J. Zitsbank*
*MSF Alumni
Corporate Support
- Bloomberg L.P.
Impact id="impact"
Ready for the real world
MSF students are prepared to be immediate contributors in finance roles. With their strong preparation in the program, students are sought by some of the most recognizable companies in the industry.
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Azat Agishev
Wells Fargo, Charlotte, NC
Joining GSIF was one of the best decisions that I made at UF. Over the two years, GSIF helped me develop foundational skills and knowledge from the ground up necessary to succeed in the industry. As a result, I excelled during my junior summer internship which opened future opportunities in front of me. At GSIF, I found mentors that supported and guided me throughout my professional experience. At the same time, GSIF gave me some of my closest friends who stood by my side at work, in class, and during stock pitch competitions when we represented UF and MSF together.
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Jackson Anderson
Honeywell, Clearwater FL
Taking Dr. Parino’s Investment Banking & Corporate Modeling course was essential to my success at Carbonxt, Inc. and Honeywell. Dr. Parrino’s unrivaled ability to clearly explain the complexities of corporate finance gave me the tools necessary to stand out in a competitive business environment. Further, Dr. Parrino’s employment of rich case studies and open-ended projects grounded my learning in real-world applications and made it easier to redeploy these new skills in future projects. As a Program Controls Intern at Honeywell Aerospace, my work revolved around projects continuously complicated additional technical jargon.The experience I gained in Dr. Parrino’s project-based courses – which taught me how to get my hands dirty in professional finance and overcome intimidating deadlines – was a perfect fit and gave me the confidence necessary to thrive. Every course with Dr. Parrino is a masterfully-crafted exploration of the nuances of finance and business, and I am incredibly grateful to him and the UF MSF program.
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Elise Bell
JPMorgan, Dallas
It has been a true privilege to be an MSF student and fully capitalize on the benefits of the small class sizes, thoughtful course selection, and access to the Bloomberg Terminal Lab. The classroom setting was a key component in our unique MSF experience, as it fosters an environment of collaboration, curiosity, and confidence. In the lab, I have had the opportunity and pleasure to have hands-on learning experience through classes such as Special Topics in Investment Finance and Asset Allocation. 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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Bryce Beltz
Citizens Bank, Atlanta
The MSF program was instrumental in helping me land my full-time role. Mrs. Herring introduced me to a key contact within Citizens who was also an alumnus of the MSF program. This contact not only helped me prepare for my interview, but also took the time to candidly answer all of my questions about Citizens M&A division. Without this introduction, I would have had a much more difficult time landing my crucial junior summer internship. After an amazing summer internship program at Citizens, I am very excited to return to the office and begin my career. I must thank the alumnus, who was a mentor throughout the internship, and the MSF program who first made the introduction.
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Alexander Benitez
Thales, Orlando FL
Besides being able to learn important industry knowledge from courses, the MSF program provided me with a great group of peers to learn with and from. Having working classmates was crucial to my experience of learning and enjoying the program. Being able to work with and challenge each other in our courses allowed me to create bonds that extended outside of the classroom. Having that supportive network of very smart individuals within the program really enhanced my learning experience, professional development, and overall enjoyment of my college experience. Through MSF, I have created lifelong friendships that I am forever grateful for.
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Savan Bhula
KBW, NYC
The MSF program has been an invaluable experience for me, and I am forever grateful for its role in shaping my career path. Not only did it provide me with the necessary technical and behavioral skills for the job market, but it also allowed me to work alongside a group of hardworking and dedicated peers who motivated me to achieve my best. The support and encouragement we gave each other throughout the interview process made it a far less stressful experience, and I feel fortunate to have been a part of such a positive and collaborative environment. Beyond the classroom, the MSF program provided a platform for deeper discussions of financial concepts and fostered intellectually curious and motivated individuals to work together. The result was a network of lifelong friendships. As we move forward into the next stage of our lives, I am confident that these relationships will continue to grow, and the lessons learned from the MSF program will continue to guide and inspire us.
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Jack Boyd
Eastdil Secured, Miami
When reflecting on my college experience, the MSF program created a unique opportunity for me to acquire two degrees in the span of four years. Among the many benefits it provided me, the most useful was a strong network that would not have been possible had I chosen to pursue a standard four-year degree. Additionally, the high-level coursework gave me an advantage during my junior summer internship that allowed me to excel amidst other candidates from many competitive universities. It is clear to me that the MSF program was integral to my professional development and has positioned me well for a starting position in the financial industry.
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Leah Burkam
Truist Securities, Atlanta, GA
The MSF program has provided me with many opportunities and a network of people who are eager to support me. This has allowed me to secure an internship and a full-time offer at a firm located in Atlanta. As an out-of-state student, moving to Florida came with many challenges. Joining the MSF program provided me with a community and a clear path for my college years. This gave me the confidence to succeed in another new state and city. The MSF program gives students the chance to work for firms all over the country, and I am excited that MSF has led me to Atlanta. I am looking forward to all the new and exciting memories I will make in a new city!
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Sebastian Carson
Boston Consulting Group, Miami
I paid for my graduate education, so being blessed with the Hough Scholarship was incredibly helpful. Thank you to Dr. Brown and Mrs. Herring for nominating me for the award, and to the Hough family for their generous gift. The experiences gained through the MSF program will stick with me forever and were made possible by the Hough scholarship. The MSF degree gives me confidence in my intellectual abilities no matter the career I chose, and that was truly worth the cost.
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Diego Chavez
Wells Fargo Securities, Charlotte
The MSF program helped me grow greatly professionally. The main reason is the culture of older students who are willing to mentor the younger ones, which became extremely helpful during recruiting. By talking through my experiences and goals I was able to decide on a career path within finance while also getting the help during the recruiting process. By having the opportunity to talk to younger students during my junior and senior year, I felt that I was able to help EFE and GSIF students through the same issues I faced when I was in their shoes. Thank you to all the donors and individuals that have impacted my college and professional career. I will always be thankful for my experience in the MSF program.
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Jeremy Cheng
Pandi Capital, Kansas City
Over the past four years, the MSF program has opened up doors and opportunities in my career, and the skills and knowledge gained in the program have been invaluable. While the classes have been impactful, over the long run, I believe it will be the connections and relationships formed during my time in the program that will prove to be the most memorable. Overall, the MSF program at the University of Florida has had a positive impact on my life and career, and I know the program will continue to help future students succeed in their pursuits.
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Joseph Cowan
NextEra Energy, Juno Beach, FL
The MSF Program significantly altered my professional and academic experience providing me with opportunities that would never have been available to me. Being able to obtain my graduate degree within four years and begin my career sooner is so instrumental to my future success. The technical skills and industry knowledge we have been immersed with in such a short time frame, along with the connections we have made will follow me for the rest of my career and will indeed prove invaluable.
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Nicolas Cuesta
RBC Capital Markets, NYC
The most impactful aspect of the MSF program was the opportunity to access alumni and participate in exclusive round tables. Throughout my freshman year, seniors from MSF generously offered guidance on navigating the recruitment process, including mock interviews and mentorship that aided me in developing my career path. During my sophomore year, while attending an MSF RBC round table, I made a meaningful professional connection with an employee who shared similar interests. The introductions MSF made for me were critical to securing my internship opportunity, and I remain grateful for all the mentorship and assistance provided to me.
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Michelle Cuppy
RBC Capital Markets, NYC
If you had told my 18-year-old self all that I would accomplish in just four years, I would have been overwhelmed with disbelief. The thought of achieving so much in such a short amount of time would have seemed almost impossible. Looking back on my time as a gator, I know that none of this would have been possible without the valuable guidance, direction, coaching, and mentorship provided by all MSF faculty and alumni. I feel deeply honored to have been a part of such a program, and the skills and knowledge I gained will undoubtedly continue to serve me well in my future endeavors. I eagerly anticipate the day when I can give back to the next generation of MSF alumni, and show my appreciation for an institution that has given me a gift that will last a lifetime.
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Alexia Dauelsberg
Goldman Sachs, Miami
As I prepare to graduate and embark on a new chapter in my life, I cannot help but to reflect on my favorite part about being in the Master of Science in Finance program. For me, it was the opportunity to expand upon my knowledge and expertise in fields that I have innate interests for—wealth management and real estate. Throughout the program, I was exposed to cutting-edge research platforms and real-world applications, which allowed me to deepen my understanding of complex financial concepts and hone my analytical skills. The collaborative learning environment provided by the faculty and my fellow classmates was also a highlight of the program, motivating me to push myself to new levels of academic and professional achievement. Overall, I am grateful for the experiences and skills I have gained through the Master of Science in Finance program, and I look forward to applying them to my future endeavors at Goldman Sachs and beyond!
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William (Caleb) Davidson
Honeywell, Richmond
The MSF program provided me with exceptional opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Brown, Mrs. Herring, and the other MSF faculty for offering me the chance to learn from incredible professors and join a remarkable peer group. Upon graduation, I will work alongside other MSF graduates at Honeywell. When first learning about the company, the MSF program held a small roundtable where my peers and I could interact with the Honeywell recruiter in a more personal setting. The MSF program’s reputation enabled me to develop a stronger relationship with recruiters, and the alumni network established provided me a deeper insight into different roles within the finance industry. I am excited to work with former classmates at my new company and grateful for the amazing opportunities that have been opened to me.
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Jack Dellenger
Evercore, NYC
Being a member of The Founders Fund has been one of my favorite experiences during my time at UF. The Fund helped me develop the skills and relationships necessary to succeed in both my professional and personal life. Some of my best friendships were formed with people I met in the Fund. I couldn’t have gotten to where I am today without all of the older students offering their guidance. Learning how to construct a stock pitch and become an expert on a sector helped foster my infatuation with investing. The process of researching, building a presentation, pitching, and then answering questions deepened my understanding of finance. The Founders Fund enabled me to thrive in my career, and I will forever be grateful for the experience.
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Jacqueline Digiorgio
TBD
When I arrived at the University of Florida, it was a large institution, with many new faces and many paths to choose from. It wasn’t until I began the MSF program that I felt I had a home and sense of belonging. From the community of friends that quickly transpired to the professors that genuinely cared about my success to the professional development aided by Mrs. Herring, I knew I had a support system. These MSF friendships began as we pushed each other to be better, to learn more, to give one hundred percent, and to strive to be our very best selves. I am grateful to have met such disciplined, motivated, kind, and curious individuals that I now call some of my best friends. Some professors from Dr. Naranjo to Dr. Gendreau to Dr. Wang had a profound impact on me and my career goals. The classes they taught were meaningful and energetic. I was excited every day that I entered those classrooms, as we engaged in thought-provoking discussions, and I walked out, having gained more knowledge than when I walked in. These classes and professors brought joy back into learning for me, and for that I would like to say thank you. Lastly, I am grateful for the professional development given to us in our first two years of university, as I would not be the same, confident individual I am now, without it. My four years at UF were made because of the MSF program, the countless hours spent with other students, learning about finance, but also learning about ourselves and our capabilities. Now as I enter my next chapter of life, I move forward auspiciously with memories, an abundance of knowledge, and wisdom. Thank you to the MSF program.
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Jacob Fatovic
Eastdil Secured, Atlanta
Receiving my Master’s degree in only four years has been a tremendous help to kickstart my career. Talking to employers and people in the finance or real estate industry, the first thing everyone notices on my resume is that I have two degrees. However, they are even more impressed when they see I was able to get both in four years. It is rare that students are motivated and capable to take so many credits in a short period of time, but the MSF program allowed me to do that and further my pursuit of knowledge while in college. Not only is it an exceptional opportunity to have a Master’s degree on paper, but the classes and people I was able to meet have further jumpstarted my career. The ability to take advanced classes helped me come into my internship with more experience and knowledge than the average student my age. It also gave me the experience to take a leadership role from day one. Additionally, the small class environment has given me the confidence to speak out and share my opinion even if it may be in the minority. Overall, obtaining my graduate degree in four years has jumpstarted my career and allowed me to enter the workforce prepared.
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Kayla Freyre
JPMorgan, Miami
Being a part of the MSF program has been an incredibly positive experience. One of the most valuable aspects has been the opportunity to build a network of intelligent, like-minded, and supportive peers. Additionally, the selection of courses offered has provided me with in-depth finance knowledge that I can apply throughout my career. The professors in the program have been dedicated and genuinely interested in helping us succeed, which has made a significant impact on my overall experience. With the skill set that I have developed through MSF, I feel tremendously prepared and excited to begin my career as a Middle Market Banking Analyst at JPMorgan.
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Avery Fu
Procter and Gamble, Cincinnati
I’ve taken many amazing and useful courses while attaining the MSF degree, but one of the most impactful classes I have taken is Financial Decision Making with Dr. Christopher James. The course introduced incredibly practical knowledge of corporate finance, most of which I have understood at a surface level prior to the course. It took topics such as tax, debt, and equity – all topics not easily conceptualized and applied, and gave it real practical applications via case studies. I enjoyed it greatly, and it is something I will be actively applying during my career.
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Jonas Gaspari
Truist, Atlanta
The MSF program provided me with invaluable resources, and a dynamic network of contacts in the financial world. The program opened doors to opportunities that would have otherwise been difficult for me to obtain and ultimately helped me secure a great job after graduation. Over the course of four years, I received guidance and support that was integral in navigating the complex and often daunting recruitment process. One of the greatest aspects of the program is the quality of friendships you form during your time. I feel much more comfortable and confident about my future knowing I have such a solid network of support that I developed through MSF. I am and will always be thankful for my time at the University of Florida and in MSF.
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Graham Geis
JPMorgan, Tampa
The MSF program helped to cultivate skills through classes and projects that have already been extremely useful. It is nice to know that I will continue to use the knowledge that I acquired in the MSF program in my full-time job and come in as prepared, if not more, than any of my professional colleagues – definitely some weight off the shoulders when starting a first full-time post college career.
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Ana Gjuraj
Honeywell, TBD
I have greatly enjoyed the MSF program during my time at the University of Florida. Not only have I been given the opportunity to study courses which have tremendously enhanced my financial knowledge, but I have also made long lasting connections. I am grateful to have met and collaborated with so many unique and outstanding individuals who share a similar interest in finance. The connections I’ve made with my fellow classmates will be cherished the most as we move on to the next chapter of our lives.
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Brett Gross
RBC Capital Markets, NYC
MSF coursework such as Dr. Parrino’s investment banking and financial cooperate modeling class was instrumental in my success during my internship at RBC capital markets. I really enjoyed Dr. Parrino’s class as I thought he was an engaging professor who had substantial industry experience. I was able to leverage the skills learned in his class during my final internship project at RBC where I was tasked with building a DCF and LBO model to evaluate a client.
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Joshua Honorat
Vista Equity Partners, Chicago
Being a part of the MSF program equipped me with the confidence, connections, and technical knowledge to co-found DISS Capital, a non-profit student investment fund focusing on exposing students from non-represented backgrounds to careers in finance. Entering the MSF program as an undergraduate engineering student, I initially contemplated how well I would be able to establish a keen financial understanding and what impact I would have within the program. I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity in my final year in college to invest back into the UF community of students who are ambitious but oftentimes unaware of their full potential. As I look out into the future, I can confidently say that DISS Capital will continue to positively impact students and expose them to unique opportunities and lifelong friendships.
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Marek Hornak
Evercore, NYC
Joining the Gator Student Investment Fund (GSIF) in my freshman year was perhaps the best career decision (apart from joining MSF) that I could have made. The fund gave me access to like-minded peers as well as older students, who were invaluable in teaching me technical skills, explaining the nuances of the finance industry, and generally acting as mentors in and out of the professional world. Some of my best friends in college came from GSIF, and I undoubtedly owe my success in landing an investment banking job to the leaders of the fund. When I got the chance to be one of the Portfolio Managers during my final year in school, I made sure to carry on the legacy of “paying it forward” and nurturing talent at all levels of the organization. The fund was also crucial in building my skills as an investor and allowed me to compete in (and win) several national stock pitch competitions. I am immensely grateful for the hard work of everyone involved in making the fund as successful and professional as it has been, from alumni to Dr. Brown and the fund’s Board of Directors, and I hope that students will have the chance to participate in this one-of-a-kind organization for years to come.
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Taysir Ismail
Hamilton Lane, Philadelphia
During my last module I had the opportunity of taking both Entrepreneurial Finance and Venture Finance taught by Dr. Wu and Dr. Parrino. Both of these classes were about venture capital and taking them together gave me an in-depth understanding of this unique asset class. This is one of many examples where the exceptional MSF program has allowed me to gain a deep understanding of a topic that isn’t covered in the traditional undergraduate finance degree.
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Chloe Johnson
Evercore, NYC
The MSF program provided me with access to incredible professors that were able to bring their real-world expertise to the classroom. One such professor was Dr. Parrino, who is a Managing Director at Fifth Third Securities and the professor for the Investment Banking, Mergers and Acquisitions, and Venture Finance classes. He taught us how to research companies, perform accurate valuations, and ultimately distill and present information in a persuasive and professional manner. I could not have asked for better preparation for my career in Investment Banking. The skills I learned in his and other MSF classes continue to give me a competitive edge.
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Devin Katz
McKinsey, Miami
I was a Career & Peer (CAP) mentor for two years and oversaw the CAPs involvement in Warrington Welcome. Serving the business school as an MSF CAP mentor has been a terrific experience. Being in MSF expanded my capabilities as a CAP, as the MSF program has been one of the greatest contributions to my professional development. When mentees come into the CAP office wanting to apply to MSF, I am so excited for what’s ahead of them.
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Harry Koutroumanis
Truist Wealth, Charlotte
The MSF program put me in a mindset of success. Before being in MSF I doubted I was capable of achieving greatness, but once I was accepted into the program, greatness became a standard benchmark from which to progress from. I wouldn’t trade the experience I’ve had in this program with my mentors, peers, and faculty for any other graduate program.
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Victoria Lake
JP Morgan, Charlotte
One of the most impactful classes I took during the MSF program was Dr. Mahendrarajah Nimalendran’s Introduction to ML/AI Applications in Finance. Dr. Nimal is incredibly passionate about machine learning, and every class was a pleasure. He explained the fundamental theory behind each application and demonstrated live in Python how this could be applied to financial problems. I began Dr. Nimal’s class with no prior knowledge of coding in Python, and by the end I could apply machine learning code to detect credit card fraud with nearly 100% accuracy! I found myself challenged and intrigued by the material, and I can say with confidence that I will be entering my full-time position with a unique and valuable skill set.
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Noah Lewis
Raymond James, St. Petersburg
Canon Coleman’s value investing class was extremely impactful not only in preparing me for my career and refining how I approach investing, but also in encouraging independent thinking. These tools boosted my technical knowledge and have given me a very strong skill set that will set me ahead of the curve on day one as an equity research associate. I am extremely grateful that Canon Coleman takes the time each year to share his experience and expertise. I would recommend his class to anyone, and it is one of the reasons MSF is so special. Go Gators!
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Jobeth Liss
Alpha FMC, NYC
My favorite thing about being in the MSF program is how prepared I feel to start my career in Finance. The course work has challenged me and ultimately taught me a deep understanding of topics I will use daily. I also feel that I have a very strong technical knowledge of Excel and financial modeling that I would not have gained in a typical undergraduate degree. Outside of the classroom, I have learned soft skills such as networking with my class, older students, and professors that is vital to success in this field. I am confident that I will take the skills from MSF, as well as the comradery of my peers, to my full-time career.
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Justin Lorry
Capital One, McLean
My experience in the MSF program has been exceptionally rewarding from an educational standpoint. This comprehensive program has provided me with a deep understanding of various financial topics, ultimately instilling a sense of confidence in my ability to excel in the workforce with a robust financial skillset that sets me apart from my future colleagues. I found particular enjoyment in Dr. Durant’s class on structuring and solving business problems. Although not exclusively finance-focused, the course taught me valuable problem-solving techniques by breaking down complex issues into manageable segments and addressing them through a structured framework. This approach has proven invaluable in both my academic and internship experiences. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to participate in the MSF program, and eagerly anticipate applying my acquired skills at Capital One, as I embark on this exciting new chapter in my career.
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Madeleine MacLaren
Wells Fargo Securities, Charlotte
I am very excited to move to Charlotte, North Carolina, and experience all the city has to offer after graduation! Being born and raised in Florida, I have never lived outside of the state, and I am looking forward to starting my career in a new city. This past summer during my internship, I got to explore Charlotte and attend many different events including sporting events, concerts, festivals, and more. I am excited to go back to the city with some of my fellow MSF colleagues and continue to experience all Charlotte has to offer!
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Jose Mayorca
Federal Reserve Bank of New York, NYC
I am looking forward to starting my full time position at the Federal Reserve Bank in New York! It has always been a dream of mine to be able to collaborate and influence public economic policy in an influential financial institution and this position meets all the criteria. The MSF program played a key role in understanding advanced macroeconomic and investment concepts which will prove essential for my future position. I have no doubts that the knowledge and connections from my MSF experience will allow me to maximize all opportunities in the Federal Reserve.
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Anthony Nasnas
KPMG, Miami
Completing a graduate degree from the University of Florida in just four years was an incredible achievement. Not only did it provide the chance to save on an additional year of tuition fees, but it also allowed for an early entry into the workforce, providing me with a head start for professional growth. The MSF program’s well-designed curriculum and supportive faculty also facilitated a seamless transition from my undergraduate degree in mathematics to my graduate degree in finance.
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Jaiden Patel
JP Morgan, NYC
Special Topics in Investment Finance with Dr. Takeda was especially impactful for me. The class was taught in the Capital Markets lab, allowing us to use the Bloomberg terminals to complete class work and homework. Dr. Takeda took a very structured approach to teaching us about a few topics in finance and made sure we always understood the underlying foundation. It ultimately lead to a built intuition about certain finance topics that made many of the other graduate classes much easier. I would recommend this course to everyone, especially those that may be struggling to understand some of the more advanced topics around portfolio construction.
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Kosha Patel
Goldman Sachs, Boston
I am excited to be moving to Boston post-grad for full-time! Moving to a new city can be scary, exciting, and challenging all in one. However, I am looking forward to exploring new restaurants, meeting new people and taking advantage of all Boston has to offer! I am confident that UF and MSF have both prepared me by giving me the academic and professional skills to apply to for life after grad. I am also thankful for all the memories I have made over the last four years and can’t wait to make some new ones in Boston as well!
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Alessandro Perugini
William Blair & Co., Atlanta
The MSF program has been the most rigorous and influential academic experience during my time at the University of Florida. The professors, faculty, and staff were integral to my success in the program, and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without them. Dr. Brown’s and Dr. Parrino’s courses challenged me to reshape the way I approached finance, and the year-long asset management capstone project was a transformational opportunity to work with my peers and simulate a professional engagement. I am extremely thankful to have been a part of this amazing program, and I am grateful for the professors, faculty, and staff who have prepared me along the way as I begin my career in investment banking.
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Caleb Pezzi
Guggenheim Securities, NYC
The MSF program’s coaching from alumni and older students was a critical aid to placements for multiple internships and my ultimate full-time role. When I was a sophomore interviewing for analyst roles in investment banking I had the opportunity to discuss the processes with older MSF students who had received job offers from the same firms. These students told me exactly what concepts I needed to learn to have a successful technical interview, the types of behavioral questions the firms liked to ask, and even gave me multiple mock interviews. When it came time to compete against students from other schools, multiple interviewers told me that I was the most prepared candidate they had spoken to that day. I credit that level of preparation to the MSF students from prior classes. Two years later as a graduating senior, I can confidently say that I “paid it forward” to the younger classes, and I know they will continue to pay it forward when it is their turn to step up.
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Brian Ramsey
NextEra Energy, Juno Beach, FL
The MSF faculty has provided unmatched industry experience that has been pivotal to my education. Their devotion to preparing MSF students to succeed in building a career is reflected in the classroom and other instructional opportunities provided by the program. Professors that specialize in the area in which they teach have allowed me to gain a different understanding of how businesses practice certain financial methodologies in real-life applications, and I could not be more thankful.
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Alejandro Salinas
Centerview Partners, NYC
The MSF program far exceeded the expectations when I was initially interested in applying. Besides having access to great professors, like Dr. Brown, the MSF program’s biggest asset is the mentorship culture among the students. Thankful to have learned so much from upperclassmen and being able to share my advice with underclassmen.
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Justin Sheir
William Blair, Atlanta
The MSF program connects you with opportunities in many cities–including my next home of Atlanta! Moving to a new city is exciting and nerve-racking at the same time but having fellow MSF classmates in your new home makes the transition much easier. I am eager to see what Atlanta has to offer and I have the MSF program to thank for the new journey in my life.
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Cameron Slack
Equitable, Jacksonville
I am extremely excited to go out into the working world for Equitable Advisors in Jacksonville, Florida. This July I will be taking the CFP exam so I can start my work as a financial planner. This training and MSF’s informative courses have helped give me the knowledge base and confidence to pursue this career. Now I am able to do the one thing that brings me the most joy, helping people. As a financial planner, I will work closely with individuals and families to help them achieve their financial goals. Whether it’s helping a young couple save for a down payment on their first home, assisting a business owner in creating a retirement plan, or guiding retirees to the finish line, I will be able to make a real-world impact for all of my clients and make a living doing what I love.
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Demoi Smith
JP Morgan, Houston
The Master of Science in Finance program offered me and my classmates the chance to experience new learning opportunities, from attending Speaker Series presentations to hear about private equity careers, to getting exposure to fascinating fixed income and interest rate topics. Through taking classes and working alongside intelligent individuals, I have experienced ample challenge along with sufficient support that have developed my ability to solve problems and approach new tasks. Additionally, I am glad to have been a recipient of the William R. Hough Scholarship as it enhanced my experience of the MSF program. Receipt of the scholarship supported my efforts to further my education and enter the workforce with a preparedness that was established in part by the MSF program. The scholarship has contributed to my university experience and time studying at the Hough Graduate School of Business and is greatly appreciated.
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Paul Snider
Morgan Stanley, New York
As a result of the MSF coursework, I came into my internship more prepared and confident than any of the other analysts. This in turn allowed me to excel in my position and receive a full-time return offer. I have a much more expansive and in-depth knowledge base than my recruiting class, and I have the MSF program to thank for that. I cannot truly express how appreciative I am of this program and the massive leg up it has given me in accelerating my career. I feel more prepared than ever for full-time work and would not be on the same academic level with undergraduate courses alone.
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Grant Stanish
RBC Capital Markets, NYC
My entire life, I have had one clear goal: be the first person in my entire family to get a college degree. MSF has forever changed the direction of my family’s life. First, I have brought TWO degrees, something my family had never had. Second, I now have a full-time, six-figure job in the financial capital of the country: New York City. Third, I have developed a highly specialized knowledge base in finance that has elevated me to among the best students in the country. Fourth, (barring any major setbacks), my family will likely never have to worry about paying bills or being able to afford food anymore. Lastly, I have developed a deep set of friends and professional connections that will serve me well in my career. The impact the MSF degree has made on me and my family cannot be understated. Our lives have fundamentally changed and I cannot thank the MSF program enough. And it’s not just about securing a job, it’s also about acquiring the knowledge and connections because those cannot be taken away. I will forever be grateful.
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Sydney Watson
Capital One, McLean
Receiving a William R Hough scholarship has been an absolute highlight of my experience within the MSF program! It provided me the opportunity to be the first person in my family to receive a master’s degree and it has inspired me to continue to give back to a program that has done so much for me over the last four years. This program expanded my knowledge of the finance industry while offering a community of people wanting to see each other succeed. It challenged me and gave me the opportunity to grow alongside some of the best and brightest people I know. I am so thankful not only for everything that this program has added to my life but also to the Willam R Hough Family for making it possible. I am beyond excited for a future where I can give back just like those who have graciously come before and paved the way.
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Kevin Tyler
RBC Capital Markets, NYC
As a first-generation college student, it was very difficult to navigate the finance industry. Fortunately, the MSF program guided me on the right track to obtain an entry-level job once I graduated college. Specifically, Mrs. Herring did a great job preparing me and my classmates on how to be young professionals in the industry, and Dr. Brown and Dr. Parrino did an excellent job of teaching us the necessary skills needed to succeed in both our internships and full-time jobs. If it weren’t for the MSF program, I do not believe I would be on the same track that I am now, and I am very thankful to have found out about the program during my freshman year.
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Bilal Andha
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
RBC Capital Markets, NYC -
Adolfo Anzola
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Citi Private Bank, NYC -
Lily Brames
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Bank of America Private Bank, Charlotte -
Johanna Bruk
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Sterling Organization, West Palm Beach -
Z. Beata Chen
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
RBC Capital Markets, NYC -
John Cuttitta
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
RBC Capital Markets, NYC -
James Donnelly
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Evercore ISI, NYC -
Max Durst
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
KPMG, Miami -
Bradley Elias
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
KPMG, Atlanta -
Phoebe Funai
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Wells Fargo Securities, TBD -
Brennen Gil
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Bain & Company, Atlanta -
Camila Ginorio
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
JPMorgan Chase, Miami -
Luca Giorgi
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Digital Bridge, Boca Raton -
Zachary Godkin
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Evercore, NYC -
Adam Goga
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Honeywell, TBC -
Allison Graves
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
RBC Capital Markets, NYC -
Hunter Griffie
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Truist, Atlanta -
Genna Grodin
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Citi Private Bank, NYC -
Jackson Harris
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Eastdil Secured, Atlanta -
Jackson Hickey
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Delta Air Lines, Atlanta -
Ryan Jacks
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
FP&L, NextEra Energy, Juno Beach -
Samuel Johnson
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Antarctica Advisors, Miami -
Syuzanna Kocharyan
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Citi Private Bank, NYC -
Karim Limayem
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Lazard, NYC -
Adam Linares
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Blackstone, NYC -
Davis Luckner
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
RW Baird, Tampa -
Susan Mago
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
UBS, NYC -
Jamison McAdams
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
The Founders Group, NYC -
Blake McCoy
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Houlihan Lokey, NYC -
Alfonso Mestre
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
BC Partners, NYC (remote) -
Karl Milland
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
TD Securities, NYC -
Jagger Milliard
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
RBC Capital Markets, NYC -
Aisulu Munkina
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Research Assistant, UF -
Paul Nameth
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Lincoln, NYC -
Kasun Navaratna
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Nomura, NYC -
Andrew Peterson
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Evercore, NYC -
Ryan Popov
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
FanDuel, Atlanta -
Nicolas Poveda
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Bank of America, NYC -
Veer Raxwal
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Guggenheim, NYC -
William Reed
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Canopy 360, Ocala -
Eesha Reddy
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
McKinsey, Detroit -
Karla Rivera
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Blackstone, NYC -
Zoe Sachs
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Intuitive Surgical, Atlanta -
Arina Shalobodova
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Centerview Partners, NYC -
Zachary Stefansson
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Hawks Ventures, Atlanta -
Rachael Stockel
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Houlihan Lokey, NYC -
Leonardo Ting
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
Houlihan Lokey, NYC -
Carolyn Torres
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
UBS, Weehawken & NYC -
Paul Trauger
LinkedIn
Accepted for summer 2023:
JPMorgan, NYC
Scholarship Recipients
Congratulations to our outstanding students who received these scholarships.
Jeffrey M. Levine Banking Scholarship:
Betty W. Penter Memorial Scholarship:
William R. Hough Scholarship:
Peter Gylfe honored
MSF alumnus Peter Gylfe was named to Institutional Investor’s 2023 Hedge Fund Rising Stars. Gylfe is one of 10 people from around the nation included on the list for his rising prominence in the hedge fund industry.
Gylfe is senior portfolio manager at Millennium Management, where he has built and runs a fundamental long-short equity strategy focused on the industrials and materials sectors with a team of five analysts.
Contact Us id="contact-us"
Kelly Herring
Director, William R. Hough Program in Finance
Master of Science in Finance Program
352.392.9249
Email Kelly Herring