Quick info

• MFin Class of 2020
• Job title: Project Manager, Jacobs Engineering Group, Buildings Infrastructure and Advanced Facilities Division
• Previous education: Bachelor of Applied Science, Civil Engineering, University of Waterloo

Why did you decide to study the MFin program?

I was seeking a program that would equip me with the finance proficiency and help me with the transition into a more business oriented role. Comparing to other programs such as MBAs I found that the MFin program set up is not only finance specific, but also practical. It focuses on both the quantitative analytical side of finance such as risk modeling, and the qualitative side of finance such as macroeconomics and valuation.

What was your main reason for choosing Rotman?

Rotman has been a world-recognized leading business school which is perfectly located at the financial hub of Canada. Its faculty is also well recognized academically and in the industry. 

How did your civil engineering background contribute to your Rotman experience?

I have been involved in the consulting engineering and construction industry for accumulative 7 years. The projects I have been part of are mostly Private-Public Partnership (P3) structured infrastructure projects, in which the private party provide financing for these multi-billion projects. Through my work, I gradually took interest in how these projects are financed which got me to look into Rotman’s MFin program. 
     
The complexity of my work requires me to quickly come up with viable engineering solutions in a fast-paced environment while under pressure. My experience also helps me to dissect problems following a structured approach, making reasonable assumptions in a timely manner.

How are you finding Rotman’s community?

The Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) Intro course has expanded my vision in the entrepreneurship and startup world – multiple paths can lead to value creation and value capture of tech startups, and entrepreneurship strategies and choices are made based on sophisticated analysis and various decision criteria. 

In this current AI revolution age, the CDL course also offers deep insights into AI’s economic implications and intrinsic trade-offs.

What has been the highlight of the Rotman experience? 

Collaboration, debates and discussions with fellow MFin classmates - captivating and inspiring.

What would you say to someone considering choosing the MFin?

Be prepared for the workload but you will definitely enjoy the experience. Time flies if you are with MFin!

What are your future plans?

Upon graduating from Rotman, I see myself in an area that combines my industry expertise and my Master of Finance degree - such as P3 project financing, infrastructure investment, asset management and private equity - however I’m always open and excited to broader areas and opportunities. Rotman has definitely equipped with me the knowledge and skills required, and most importantly the confidence as well.
 

This post was written while Frances was a student in the program.

Accelerate your finance career by earning your Master of Finance. Our innovative 20-month program features top-ranked faculty, cutting-edge curriculum and dynamic connections to Bay Street. From classic corporate finance to fin tech disruption, gain valuable knowledge and skills that will have an immediate impact on your current role – and transform your future.