Varun Rakesh Sharma

Varun Rakesh Sharma

Vice President

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.

More from Graduate Finance Management Council Leaders

Vedant Baniwal

Vedant Baniwal

GFMC Student Ambassador

As the former Committee Chair, I led initiatives to connect finance students with industry professionals through networking opportunities, company visits, and coffee chats. My efforts have been pivotal in organizing events that bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry experience. As the former External Relations Director, I fostered strong relationships with leading finance firms, enhancing internship and job placement opportunities for our members. In the forthcoming semesters, as a Student Ambassador, I am dedicated to guiding prospective students, sharing insights from my professional background, and promoting the invaluable support system offered by GFMC. GFMC has been instrumental in my academic journey at UTD. The support from GFMC officers has provided me with numerous opportunities to develop my skills and expand my professional network. Through their guidance, I have gained access to internships, workshops, and mentorship programs that have enriched my learning experience and prepared me for a successful career in finance. GFMC plays a crucial role in empowering finance students at UTD by providing access to a robust network of professionals, hands-on learning experiences, and mentorship opportunities. Through these initiatives, I am committed to helping students leverage these resources to achieve their career aspirations and thrive in the competitive finance industry.

Kushleen Chhabra

Kushleen Chhabra

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!

Samiha Siddique

Samiha Siddique

Deal Desk Officer

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. In my role as a deal desk officer, I aim to leverage my prior editorial and publications’ experiences to help students deliver insightful articles on the latest financial developments, engage in meaningful dialogue with students on financial trends, and provide targeted guidance on academic choices, resume enhancement, internship opportunities, and career development.

Sumaiya Ansari

Sumaiya Ansari

Social Media Manager

GFMC is an invaluable organization for finance students, providing support through program ambassadors, mentors, and leaders. The council emphasizes a sense of creativity and value creation. By guiding students in their professional development and connecting them with finance professionals and alumni, GFMC enhances career prospects and professional networks. With a passion for leveraging financial expertise to drive strategic decision-making and business growth, I bring 7 years of hands-on experience in various finance roles, including FP&A, accounting, and cash flows. As a Chartered Accountant and ACCA, I am pursuing a Master's degree in Finance at UTD, focusing on Corporate Finance. I am excited to contribute to GFMC's mission by serving as a Marketing manager and support the growth and development of finance students. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to making a positive impact within the GFMC community.

Isha Bhave

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.

Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD in Finance?

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