Adarsh Geerjanan studied MSc Finance, Investment and Risk, graduating in 2020. He tells us about his time at the University of Kent, his current career as a Credit Risk Modeller, and his future plans.
What was your dream job as a child, and what is your dream job now?
As a child, I always wanted to become a doctor, but as I was growing up, I started envisioning myself working in an Investment Bank, as did my father. Since then, I have studied and worked my way towards this and today my goal is to start my own Wealth Management Firm.
Why did you choose Kent Business School?
I am interested in Finance and KBS was offering a programme which was accredited by GARP and CFA, which caught my interest. Above all, I chose the University of Kent (UKC) for its campus life and I can proudly say that it was one of the best decisions I have made.
Please share some of your favourite memories, achievements and experiences?
The student life exceeded my expectations and every day was a day to be cherished. Strangely, my best memories were during the first COVID outbreak whereby we spent months amongst stranded international students aiding each other during the lockdown period.
What have you been up to since graduating?
Upon returning to Mauritius, I was lucky to join EY Ltd as a Credit Risk Modeller. So far, it has been a challenge and pride to work for such a huge firm. In parallel, I have enrolled for the CFA program and as of now, I have reached the final level.
What does your role involve? What do you like about it the most, and what are the most challenging aspects?
My role involves both the development and the auditing of credit risk models for some of the largest institutions in Mauritius. I really enjoy the fact that my responsibilities are mostly quantitative and involves statistical coding. Since my first day at work, my challenges have been about presentations and client-facing skills and I can say that I have improved a lot in these two years at work.
How do you apply the knowledge and skills you gained during your studies in your job, and what career advice would you give students and fellow alumni?
Research and report writing skills which I have developed to a great extent during my studies are really useful to me. Also, the knowledge acquired from modules like Credit Risk and Financial Data Modelling has to be applied every day at work.
What are your future plans/aspirations?
My future plan is to shift to a more investment-oriented job, where I can make the most of what I am learning in CFA. I was recently offered a job at one of the largest banks in Mauritius as an Investment Analyst and I am planning to move there after completing my CFA.
What advice would you give to current students doing your course?
The MSc Finance (Finance, Investment and Risk) programme was challenging, mostly on the technical side. My advice is to make the most of what the lecturers have to offer by attending all lectures. There is also a lot of self-study. Stay focused as from day one and work on your assignments at the earliest possible opportunity.
Adarsh studied MSc Finance, Investment and Risk at Kent Business School.