Graduate Finance Management Council

Focused on the Needs and Interests of Graduate Finance Students

The Graduate Finance Management Council (GFMC) is focused on the needs and interests of graduate finance students. The dedicated GFMC members serve as program ambassadors, mentors and leaders for the MS Finance program. Their support is critical for program support and student success. Continuing students are encouraged to join and support the GFMC.

We strongly believe that our MSF alumni are assets and brand ambassadors for the MSF program as well as a great source of professional guidance for the MSF students.

Since the establishment of the program in Spring 2021, it has helped connect over 80 MSF students with over 40 MSF alumni.

Mentors

Are you a new or continuing MS in Finance student?

GFMC Mentors are happy to answer you questions, such as:

• Who should I contact about this?
• Where can I find information on campus activities?
• When should I start getting involved in campus organizations?
• Did you sit for the CFA while taking classes? What problems did you face?
• How can I meet other people?

See the GFMC Leaders.

Leaders

The Graduate Finance Management Council officers serve as the leaders. Their projects include the following:

• Plan and develop Coffee Chat sessions for new and continuing students
• Plan and facilitate various program related events and workshops
• Develop and coordinate information sessions for prospective students

Mansi Mange

President

As the Co-President of the Graduate Finance Management Council (GFMC) for Spring 2025, I am thrilled to contribute to one of the most dynamic student organizations at UT Dallas. GFMC is not just a platform for finance students—it’s a community that bridges academic learning with real-world applications, offering unparalleled opportunities to connect with industry professionals, sharpen technical skills, and build lasting networks.
As an international student, I’ve experienced the challenges of adjusting to a new academic environment, navigating coursework, exploring internships, and adapting to life in a different country. GFMC played a pivotal role in helping me find my footing, guiding me through these transitions, and connecting me with invaluable resources. Now, it’s my privilege to give back and support others as an officer.
As a Chartered Accountant with over seven years of experience in auditing and financial advisory (valuations) at firms like Deloitte and BDO, I bring a practical understanding of the financial landscape to my role. My focus will be on curating impactful events that empower students to thrive—whether through insightful speaker sessions, skill-building workshops, or opportunities to connect with peers and professionals. I firmly believe GFMC is a cornerstone for any student aiming to make their mark in finance. I aim to foster an inclusive and supportive environment where every member feels empowered to succeed.
Feel free to connect with me to discuss how GFMC can support your journey or to share ideas for new initiatives. Together, let’s make Spring 2025 an unforgettable semester for finance students!

Kushleen Chhabra

Vice President & Committee Chair

I am thrilled to serve as the Committee Chair for GFMC at UTD. With a bachelor’s in finance and extensive experience in finance and insurance consulting, I bring a strong background in data analysis, communication, and equity research. At GFMC, I’m excited to organize impactful events and workshops to support your career growth and enhance our collective understanding of corporate finance, valuation, and investment banking. I aim to foster a collaborative and supportive environment where all can thrive and succeed.
I look forward to connecting with industry professionals and applying what we learn practically. If you have any questions or ideas, please feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!

Sanskar Raheja

General Secretary of GFMC

The Graduate Finance Management Club (GFMC) is a key organization at UTD, focused on supporting finance students and creating opportunities for growth and connection. As a Master’s in Finance student, I started my journey at UTD as an international student adjusting to a new academic and cultural environment. Navigating the challenges of rigorous coursework and settling into a new country wasn’t easy, but the mentorship and support I received from GFMC made a big difference. Through its events, workshops, and community, the organization helped me understand the program better, make use of campus resources, and build a clear path toward my career goals.
As the General Secretary of GFMC, I’m excited to continue this tradition of support and guidance. My experiences—from interning in risk management and financial research to starting a business—have given me practical skills and insights I’m eager to share with others. I’m passionate about creating an inclusive and welcoming space where members can grow, connect with like-minded peers, and prepare for successful careers in finance.
Whether you’re new to the program or looking to make the most of your experience, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out—I look forward to supporting you and being part of your journey at UTD!

Rifat Budhwani

Treasurer & Social Media Manager

GFMC stands as an exemplary student organization committed to supporting the finance student population at UTD. As a Master’s in Finance student with a passion for valuation, corporate finance, and financial analysis, I transitioned into academia as an international student after several years of professional experience. Initially, this shift presented its challenges, but the steadfast guidance of GFMC officers, along with the program director’s mentorship, made the process seamless. Their support enabled me to quickly understand program requirements, campus resources, the internship application process, and the alumni network.
GFMC fosters an inclusive platform where students can expand their knowledge, hone their skills, and cultivate a sense of belonging within the financial industry. Drawing from my own experiences overcoming similar hurdles, I am committed to mentoring and empowering others in their academic and professional journeys. In my roles as Treasurer and Social Media Manager of GFMC, I am enthusiastic about sharing my expertise and insights with current and prospective MS Finance students at UTD. My background in business development, financial analysis, and team leadership equips me to guide and support fellow students effectively.
Feel free to reach out if you need assistance navigating the finance community or achieving your goals at UTD. I’m excited to help you make the most of your journey here!

Yash Patel

Deal Desk & Marketing Manager

Joining GFMC has been an invaluable part of my journey as a Master of Science in Finance student at The University of Texas at Dallas. The organization’s initiatives, such as Coffee Chats, alumni sessions, and case competitions, have provided critical guidance and support, helping me confidently adapt to the academic and professional environment. GFMC’s collaborative community has eased my transition, offering insights into career paths, networking opportunities with industry professionals, and skill development resources essential for aspiring finance professionals.
With a professional background as an Equity Research Analyst and Financial Analyst, I have developed data-driven financial strategies, optimized portfolio performance, and implemented forecasting systems in corporate finance. These experiences have cultivated a strong foundation in investment analysis and corporate strategy, which I am excited to bring to the GFMC community.
Passionate about energy investments and corporate finance, I look forward to contributing to GFMC’s mission of empowering finance students while growing alongside a network of driven peers and mentors. I am eager to connect with current and prospective students, offering support in navigating their academic and professional journeys at The University of Texas at Dallas. As a Deal Desk Officer, I am excited to utilize my background in editorial work to guide students in creating compelling content on emerging financial topics and spark engaging discussions on industry trends.

Samiha Siddique

Student Ambassador

The GFMC student organization is dedicated to connecting incoming Finance students at JSOM with accomplished alumni, providing essential guidance through both academic and professional landscapes. Since joining the MSF program in Fall 2023, I have first-hand experienced the benefits of GFMC’s extensive support network, particularly through the impactful initiatives like the Alumni Roundtable, Excel Case Competition, and the Mentorship Program. I remember how navigating through the academic journey while focusing on extra-curricular activities and securing internship felt overwhelming but the guidance from the GFMC officers and coffee chat sessions arranged by the council made the transition much smoother. These resources have significantly contributed to my academic pursuits and helped build valuable connections with finance professionals. With my background in investment banking and as an active member of GFMC for two semesters, I am well-positioned to mentor both current and prospective finance students at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Master’s in Finance Student Testimonials

Zhiyao Zhao, Class of ’21

Credit Risk Senior Analyst, CitiGroup

The MS in Finance program in JSOM is one of the most valuable MSF programs — with sophisticated and ingenious curriculum design, flexible career directions, and affordable tuition. With a various range of workshops and events, students can obtain many opportunities to network with finance professionals and prepare their future careers based on the suggestions and recommendations from those professionals. The thoughts I would like to share with the students are: Find your real passion, keep putting in the effort and never quit easily.