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.
The Finance Alumni Mentorship Program provides the MSF students:
- A platform to connect 1:1 with MSF alumni and seek their valuable guidance on academic and career strategies
- The opportunity to connect and network with MSF alumni
- Valuable professional and career-related development by the MSF alumni, including mock interviews, resume critique, career discussions, etc
- Extensive career exposure by networking with alumni across a wide range of finance domains such as credit risk, venture capital, financial modelling, etc
Since the establishment of the program in Spring 2021, it has helped connect over 80 MSF students with over 40 MSF alumni.
Ambassadors
Are you considering getting your MS in Finance?
GFMC Ambassadors are happy to answer you questions, such as:
- What is it like to be a student in the Master of Science in Finance program at UT Dallas?
- How can students get involved at UT Dallas?
- Would you like to know more?
We have ambassadors from many countries around the world. When you email an ambassador, feel free to specify an ambassador from a particular country or region, and we will do our best to connect you appropriately. See the GFMC Leaders.
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?
A mentor is ready to answer your questions.
Email your questions to MentorMSF@utdallas.edu .
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- The Graduate Finance Management Council will assist the MS Finance program as Ambassadors for the program, Peer Mentors to new students and with other tasks as appropriate.
- To apply, each candidate must adhere to the following guidelines:
- Must be able to actively serve on the GFMC for at least one long semester.
- Complete the online application
- Assist with MS Finance activities throughout the semester.
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
Sanjana Yegateela
President
I am honored to serve as the President of GFMC. Having been a member of GFMC for more than a year, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact this organization has on graduate finance students. The people we encounter in our lives have a profound impact on our own choices, and I am grateful for the guidance I received from GFMC members during my own journey. Now, it is my turn to pay it forward to the upcoming students. I have encountered countless students who arrive with a multitude of questions about their career paths. I understand that the right path differs for each individual, and I am committed to being a part of their journey. By offering guidance, sharing experiences, and helping them explore their interests and skills, I strive to empower them to discover their true calling.
Moreover, I strongly believe in the power of giving back to society. It is not enough to solely focus on personal achievements; we must uplift those around us as well. I am excited to continue serving GFMC and its members, offering unwavering support, guidance, and a listening ear. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of graduate finance students and inspire them to reach their full potential.”
Varun Rakesh Sharma
Vice President & Event Manager
It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as the Vice President of GFMC. I embarked on my GFMC journey as a committed member during my initial semester at UT Dallas, echoing the common experience of international students who often find themselves wrestling with a multitude of questions and uncertainties regarding their academic and career trajectory. The invaluable guidance and assistance I received from fellow GFMC team members significantly contributed to smoothing my transition and wholeheartedly embracing me as part of the UTD community. In my capacity as Vice President, I am excited about my role in organizing educational events and workshops, partnering with finance experts to assist students in gaining practical expertise and achieving their career objectives. Leveraging my six years of professional background in Corporate Banking, Corporate Finance, Auditing, and Taxation, I eagerly anticipate sharing valuable perspectives and experiences with aspiring finance professionals. I firmly believe I can contribute significantly to the success of incoming and current students, extending the knowledge I’ve gained from my extensive work experience. My dedication to serving the finance community aligns with GFMC’s mission of fostering growth, knowledge-sharing, and value creation. Feel free to connect with me for any assistance or to explore how GFMC can support you in your journey at the University of Texas at Dallas.
Varsha B R
Vice President & Deal Desk Officer
GFMC student organization is more resourceful for incoming and current students in the Finance field. With over five years of experience in the banking industry and as an international student, the transition to academic life and a new environment is always overwhelming. Being part of this organization has eased this transition through Coffee Chat sessions and connecting with peers. Also, GFMC has helped me focus on my strengths, overcome weaknesses, connect with industry professionals, and analyze my career path through Financial Advisory Board sessions, Alumni sessions, and Case competitions. Holistically, GFMC has shaped me to be a better version of myself. As a Deal Desk Officer, I aim to share my views, work with students, and engage them in sharing their insights on recent financial happenings. I also aim to guide and support their journey to becoming industry professionals.
Ajay Gurram
Treasurer & Marketing Manager
GFMC stands as an admirable student organization committed to providing steadfast support to the finance student population at UTD. As a qualified Chartered Accountant returning to school as an international student after three years of professional experience, I faced a significant hurdle. However, the exceptional efforts of the GFMC officers greatly eased this process. The team, along with the program director, provided impeccable guidance and mentorship, enabling me to quickly familiarize myself with program requirements, various campus resources, the internship application process, and alumni networks.
GFMC serves as an inclusive platform that allows students to acquire new knowledge, enhance their skills, and foster a genuine sense of community in the financial industry. Drawing from my personal experiences overcoming similar challenges, I am confident in my ability to support and mentor others, just as my senior GFMC members did for me. In my roles as Treasurer and Marketing Manager of GFMC, I am dedicated and excited to share my knowledge and experiences with current and prospective students pursuing an MS in finance degree at UTD. Please feel free to reach out to me if you need any assistance navigating the finance community during your university journey.
Pashmeena Kothari
Committee Chair
I am delighted to introduce myself as an officer of the Graduate Finance Management Council (GFMC) team. As someone who values the power of networking and knowledge sharing, I have been an active member of GFMC since my first semester at UT Dallas. Like many international students, my journey here was initially filled with questions and uncertainties about the path ahead. GFMC played a pivotal role in helping me navigate this transition by providing unwavering support and welcoming me into the UTD family. Inspired by the positive impact I experienced, I eagerly sought to contribute back to this vibrant community by taking up the role of Committee Chair within GFMC. In my capacity as a Committee Chair, I am excited to lead efforts in planning informative events and workshops to provide fellow students with practical skills and knowledge, empowering them to excel in their finance careers. Our goal is to ensure that every GFMC event is not just worth attending but also enriching. I hold a Master’s degree in Advanced Accountancy and alongside pursued Chartered Accountancy (CA) which is equivalent to U.S.A CPA. My educational background has been complemented by over 5 years of professional experience in Corporate Finance, Accounting, Auditing, and Taxation at a renowned firm in India, further enhancing my expertise in the field. I am passionately committed to cultivating a finance-centric atmosphere, facilitating the connection between the academic sphere and the dynamic world of industry, and nurturing a welcoming and encouraging network within the university’s finance community. I wholeheartedly invite you to reach out to me if you need any guidance in your academic or professional journey. Together, we can make the most of your experience within GFMC and the finance community at UT Dallas
Isha Bhave
General Secretary
GFMC is a student organization dedicated to uniting and assisting finance students at UTD through initiatives such as coffee chats, networking events with industry professionals and alumni, and offering mentorship programs. The organization provides a platform for students to connect with like-minded peers, make friends, build professional networks, and kickstart their journeys at UTD. Having been a member of GFMC since my initial semester, I recall the challenges faced as an international student—questions about course structures, classes, navigating the internship landscape, and adapting to life in a new country. Fortunately, GFMC leaders played a pivotal role in guiding me through these uncertainties.
Our organization is a collective of mentors ready to offer support whenever needed. As the General Secretary of GFMC, I am committed to providing support to students in both their academic pursuits and professional endeavors. I aim to offer the best guidance to everyone in every way possible. I am eager to share my learnings and experiences accumulated over 2 years of professional experience in law and finance, coupled with 1 year of academic experience here at UTD.Whether you’re a new student finding your way or a current student, please feel free to reach out to me at any time. I am more than happy to share insights, provide assistant, and contribute to your growth during your time at UTD.
Vedant Baniwal
External Relation Director
GFMC brings together individuals who have an interest in finance to create a powerful network and support system. Since becoming a member, I have first-hand knowledge of the difficulties faced by international students and have benefited much from the support of the GFMC team, who welcomed me into the UTD family. This inspired me to run for office and take the committee chair position so I could work with finance experts and aid students in developing practical skills and achieving their career aspirations. The GFMC has given me confidence in my capacity to use the resources at UTD. I am delighted to share my ideas and lessons learned while working at EY and Deloitte. As the Committee Chair, I am committed to promoting a culture of finance, bridging the knowledge and experience gap between academia and industry, and creating a helpful network. I’m dedicated to offering everyone the best support I can while they’re a part of the university’s finance community and happy to help fellow students with my five years of prior corporate finance experience.
Master’s in Finance Student Testimonials
Shermin Kadiwala , Class of ’19
Audit Analyst, AIG
I’m very grateful to be a part of the MS in Finance Flex program! The program gave me a wonderful opportunity to develop my quantitative skill set with myriad resources available for finance graduates seeking to advance their careers.
Salman Jasim, Class of ’20
Reporting Analyst, Flagstar Bank
The MS in Finance program is ranked as one of the country’s best finance programs. Courses focus on applying classroom knowledge and the latest software to solve real-life problems.
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.
Siddharth Jain, Class of ’20
Finance Controller at Alex Hemani Inc.
The MS in Finance program at UT Dallas was the best decision of my life which helped me tremendously to achieve my personal and professional goals. With its world-renowned faculty and a rich, global, and robust curriculum with participants from diverse cultural as well as professional backgrounds, it enabled me with the advanced skills necessary to create a niche for myself in the finance industry. I also made some great connections that helped me navigate my way forward.
Jai Krishnan, Class of ’17
Financial Analyst, Daseke Inc.
The MS Finance program gave me the flexibility, knowledge and experience that I needed for my career. Faculty helped me tailor my coursework and mentored me to succeed with my professional goals. Active participation in student organizations, competitions judged by industry leaders and projects with real-world case studies developed my leadership and networking skills, critical in today’s competitive job market.
Noah Harness, Class of ’20
Investment Analyst, Invitation Homes
My biggest takeaway from the MSF program is my improved knowledge of statistical and quantitative methods and their applications to solving today’s business and financial problems. My recommendation and advice for incoming students and prospective candidates is to be ready to learn advanced methods and techniques to conduct quality & intelligent financial analysis, and to explore new programming softwares you haven’t used before. You get what you put into it, and if you put in the hours, you’ll have an amazing graduate experience.
Andrew Bardin , Class of ’19
Forecasting and Analytics at J.P. Morgan
My time in the MS in Finance program at UT Dallas was invaluable. I made so many great connections with professors, staff, and classmates that I looked forward to attending classes. The curriculum and resources made it possible to focus my education on the cutting edge of finance, using data, quantitative methods, analytics, and simulation. The skills that I learned through case studies and projects helped me get a great job and enabled me to make an impact right away.
Varshil Parikh, Class of ’20
Investment Analyst at GHR Foundation
My MS Finance journey gave me an insight into the practical side of the investment and finance world. Having knowledge about the core concepts is crucial but knowing how to apply them is more important than that. MS Finance at UT Dallas provided me with an environment of practical learning by offering practical courses, workshops & competitions. Working in teams with people from different backgrounds and cultures from all around the world gives you the ability to view the problem at hand via multiple perspectives. In addition to this, the CMC also supported me in my growth on the non-academic soft skill side for overall career development.
Yu-chi Wang, Class of ’19
Senior Valuation Consultant, CBIZ Business Valuation Group (Acquisition & Investment Analyst, Hardeman)
With the aspiration of working in the most mature financial industry in the world, I came to the United States to pursue my Master’s degree. UT Dallas MS Finance program provides international students the opportunity to start a chapter in the US at the most reasonable rate with abundant resources in one of the fastest growing cities in America.
Sebastian Stinson, Class of ’17
Senior Manager, First Line Risk Management, Charles Schwab
In my opinion, the most important thing you can learn is how to learn better, and there is no better place to master that skill than at UT Dallas.
Muhazdeen Ibrahim , Class of ’19
Senior Analyst , Goldman Sachs
The MSF program at UT Dallas provides students with strong competence in the finance industry.
Haoming Chen, Class of ’18
Data Analyst, Huafu Securities Corporation Ltd.
UT Dallas was a wonderful place for me to explore my academic and career development because it provides students with various professional resources.
Jaime Jerez, Class of ’19
Senior Associate at Forensic
The MS Finance program not only helped me to fortify my knowledge in finance but also, its flexible curriculum helped me to gain assets that have helped me tremendously in my personal and professional goals.
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