Rifat Budhwani

Rifat Budhwani

Marketing Manager

GFMC (Graduate Finance Management Council) is an exemplary student organization dedicated to supporting the finance student population at UT Dallas. As an MSF student passionate about valuation, corporate finance, and financial analysis, I transitioned into academia as an international student after several years of professional experience. While the shift initially posed challenges, the steadfast guidance of GFMC officers and our program director’s mentorship made my transition seamless. Their support helped me quickly understand program requirements, navigate campus resources, approach the internship application process, and tap into the strength of the alumni network. GFMC fosters an inclusive, empowering platform where students can expand their knowledge, enhance their professional skills, and build a strong sense of community within the financial industry. Reflecting on my journey and challenges, I am committed to mentoring and empowering others on their academic and career paths. As GFMC’s Marketing Officer, I’m passionate about sharing relevant opportunities, showcasing student achievements, and creating engaging content that connects current and prospective MS Finance students with valuable resources. My background in business development, financial analysis, and team leadership equips me to communicate effectively and meaningfully support our community. Feel free to reach out if you need help navigating the finance ecosystem or are looking for guidance as you chart your path at UTD. I’m excited to support your growth and help you make the most of your journey here!

More from Graduate Finance Management Council Leaders

Vidisha Mehta

Vidisha Mehta

Deal Desk Officer

Joining GFMC has been a transformative part of my academic journey as an MS in Finance student at The University of Texas at Dallas. From participating in the Excel Competition to engaging in Coffee Chat Sessions and mock interviews, GFMC has offered a supportive and enriching platform for exploring real-world finance and connecting with a vibrant community of peers and mentors. As an international student, navigating a new academic system, internship search, and cultural environment came with challenges. GFMC provided direction, resources, and a sense of belonging. It is an honor to now contribute back as a Deal Desk Officer. With prior experience in M&A consulting, I bring a foundational understanding of financial due diligence and deal analysis. However, my focus at UTD is on translating that knowledge into meaningful contributions for fellow students. As a Deal Desk Officer, I aim to simplify complex finance topics and break down current market news into engaging, digestible formats. Whether through visual explainers, quick reads, or interactive content, my goal is to make finance more accessible and spark curiosity within the UTD finance community.

Harshita Sri Valleti

Harshita Sri Valleti

Committee Chair

As the Committee Chair of the Graduate Finance Management Council (GFMC), I'm excited to contribute to a platform that supports finance students and equips them with tools to thrive. Whether it's bridging the gap between classroom concepts and industry expectations or helping students build meaningful connections, GFMC plays a key role in shaping confident, career-ready finance professionals. My transition directly from a bachelor's program in India to a master’s in finance abroad came with academic, professional, and personal challenges. What made that leap not just manageable but empowering was the support I found through GFMC's mentorship program, alumni roundtables, and real-world competitions. These experiences didn't just sharpen my technical skills; they allowed me to apply them, gain confidence, and create a clearer direction for my future. With a foundation in corporate economics & finance and hands-on experience optimizing financial models and streamlining budgeting strategies, I'm building on the skills I need to grow into roles in FP&A and investment analysis. As Committee Chair, my vision is to help incoming students make the most of their master's program to test their potential, build lasting networks, and explore areas of finance that truly excite them. I hope to support others just as GFMC has supported me and positively impacted my journey at UTD. Feel free to reach out whether you're looking for a helping hand or a familiar face on campus. I'd love to connect and be a part of your journey.

Sanskar Raheja

Sanskar Raheja

General Secretary & Treasurer

The Graduate Finance Management Club (GFMC) is a vital organization at UTD, dedicated to supporting finance students and creating opportunities for growth and connection. As a Master of Science in Finance student, I began my journey at UTD as an international student adjusting to a new academic and cultural environment. Navigating the challenges of rigorous coursework while settling into a new country was not easy, but the mentorship and support I received from GFMC made a significant impact. Through its events, workshops, and community, the organization assisted me in better understanding the program, utilizing campus resources, and developing 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 equipped me with practical skills and insights that I’m eager to share with others. I’m passionate about creating an inclusive and welcoming environment 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!

Yash Patel

Yash Patel

Vice President

GFMC has been a defining element of my experience as a Finance student at UT Dallas. From Alumni Roundtables and case competitions to the Mentorship Program, the organization has helped me navigate the challenges of grad school, build industry connections, and develop both personally and professionally. I still remember how overwhelming it felt balancing academics, extracurriculars, and internship search, but the guidance I received through coffee chats and officer support made all the difference. Starting as a Deal Desk Officer and now serving as Vice President, I've grown through mentorship, collaboration, and leading initiatives that bring real value to our student community. In my new role, I'll be focused on strengthening alumni engagement through our mentorship program, organizing technical workshops, coffee chats, internship and alumni roundtables, and managing key events, including a visit to the Dallas Fed. With prior experience in equity research and corporate finance, I'm passionate about helping others find their footing and explore career paths in investment and corporate finance. I'm always happy to support current or prospective students. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions, need guidance, or just want to connect.

Mansi Mange

Mansi Mange

President

As the President of the Graduate Finance Management Council (GFMC), 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 economic landscape to my role. I will focus on curating impactful events that empower students to thrive 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!

Bachelor’s Degree Program

Build the skills to do rigorous analysis of financial information through various courses in managerial economics and financial analysis. These skills are in high demand across the corporate world and prized in government and not-for-profit sectors.

BS in Finance

Master’s Degree Programs

Find the finance graduate degree that matches your interests. See a brief summary of each degree or click a program below for more information.

MS in Finance MS in Finance Technology and Analytics MS in Energy Management

PhD Concentration in Finance

Develop strong research skills that are especially relevant for students interested in an academic career. Research seminars are held weekly, and each year, the finance area sponsors a speaker series to bring researchers from other universities to UT Dallas.

PhD in Management Science, Finance Concentration