I am working on a number of posts for the Vanderbilt University MS in Finance program as there has been a bunch of great things happening down in Nashville. As I was going through old content to decide what I wanted to write about and provide updates for, I realized it has been a while since a student has reviewed the program or given their insight on the degree. I found something that I think helps with this.
Below are two of these recent graduate perspectives. I’ve selected segments of their interview that I thought were particularly relevant to anyone considering the degree, but I will include links to the full posts so you can read them in entirety.
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People of Vanderbilt: Shanice Garner (MSF‘22)
What are one or 2 experiences that have really shaped your time here at Owen?
The Leadership Development Program (LDP) and in-class lectures have shaped my time here at Owen. The LDP program was a great experience that allowed me to challenge myself and reflect on the aspirations/career goals I have set. Speaking with an executive coach enabled me to be honest and focused on what I need to develop during my time at Owen and beyond. The faculty here at Owen are truly one-of-a-kind. In-class lectures, specifically the Machine Learning courses taught by Jesse Blocher and Negotiations taught by Jamie Leddin, increased my confidence and prepared me for my first full-time role.
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself during your time at Owen?
Being authentic and yourself is the best that you can offer to people. At Owen, you are encouraged to put your best foot forward and focus on what you can bring to the table.
People of Vanderbilt: Lauren Thomas (MSF‘22)
Who or what empowers you at Owen?
One of my favorite parts of Owen is the community’s relentless passion for creating opportunity out of their passions. If someone is interested in creating a business, they network with alumni, take entrepreneurship classes, and even try their hand at building prototypes over at the Wond’ry. These individuals inspire me to say yes to (nearly) every opportunity that comes my way. Owen is working toward creating an environment that mirrors the evolving world around, taking next steps to explore gaps in diversity and accessibility for all populations. I am encouraged by joining small group conversations where faculty takes time to listen to students about where and how to reimagine Owen’s culture. As a woman in the finance program, I am also motivated by the several wonderful women on our admissions board that push for diverse representation.
What’s your favorite way to connect with the Owen community?
Every Thursday, I try to make it to the Closing Bell to see friends from Owen. I’ve enjoyed taking classes with members in the Owen community outside of the MSF program. It’s wonderful to be in an environment where people genuinely want to get to know each other and share life together.
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself during your time at Owen?
Everyone has something to contribute, regardless of background or experience level. As someone that came directly from undergrad, I never imagined I’d work alongside individuals with years of industry experience. Never being afraid to ask a question or volunteer my opinion has been critical to my Owen experience. When you have an open mind and a willingness to learn from others, you can do anything. Owen has taught me that a lifelong curiosity for the world can be used to reimagine the future of business.
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These two individuals are a great example of the quality students you will find studying in the Vanderbilt MS in Finance program. One thing that always stands out to me when I read these stories or other student reviews is the fulsome experience that graduates of this MSF have had. The classes, the administrators, the various groups and on campus activities, all intertwine to provide students with a very enriching graduate program.
Here is a link to the Vanderbilt University MS in Finance Program
