MSc Finance & Investment Management, 2009 From Aberdeen to Investment Banking in Africa
Your Time at Aberdeen
Why did you choose to study at Aberdeen? The University had the course I wanted and the School had a good ranking. I had also read a lot about the city being the oil capital of Europe. The Scottish culture fascinated me and I wanted to get a bit of that experience.
Why did you choose your particular course? I was starting off a career in an altogether new field (Finance) that was different from what I had studied in undergrad. Finance and Investment management seemed like a sure way to leverage on the experience I'd had up to that point and get some academic foundation to get me on the right career track.
What did you most enjoy about your time at Aberdeen? Did you have any particularly memorable student experiences? I took a trip to Balmoral Castle with my friends and it was a great experience. I always looked forward to lectures with classmates at King's College as well as studying at the Edward Wright building.
If talking to a group of prospective students, what advice would you give them to help them make the most of their time at the University of Aberdeen? While studying, take time to visit the city and environs and create beautiful memories. The university staff are always ready to help so always reach out when you need to.
Your Time After Aberdeen
What was the title of your first job after graduating from Aberdeen? Assistant Manager, Asset Management at Financial Derivatives Company Ltd.
What did your first role involve? Advising clients on investments and monitoring/managing their portfolios to maximise returns.
What is your current job title? Deputy Managing Director at Afrinvest Capital Limited in Lagos, Nigeria.
What is your current role? Advising institutional clients on capital raising.
Please briefly describe the journey from your first job after graduating to where you are now. It's been quite a journey. I started off at my first job post-uni feeling I was not making the most of my degree and felt I needed to be where I could get more challenges and apply myself more. I got that chance and I'm doing it now.
Was your degree at Aberdeen essential for getting to where you are now? If so, in what way? Yes, it was. I was more competitive and it prepared me to take the professional exam that I needed to grow in my career.
One Top Tip
While working towards a goal, be flexible on how to get there and be willing through the journey. The world is changing a lot these days, and your openness to embracing change will go a long way.
