Anya Sharma
Anya Sharma is a financial analyst at Performance Beauty Group and is based in the New York City Metropolitan Area.
Why did you choose to pursue your MSF at Boston College?
Leaving India and moving thousands of miles to Boston was a major leap for me, but it felt like the right step in my journey. Boston College stood out, not only for its renowned MSF program, but also for its vibrant community that felt like a home away from home. The program’s unique blend of theory and practical learning was what really attracted me. Many of my professors had years of industry experience, bringing real-world insights directly into the classroom. This allowed me to gain hands-on understanding while still in an academic setting.
What is your advice to future BC MSF candidates?
My advice to future BC MSF candidates is to fully embrace the unique opportunities that BC offers, both inside and outside the classroom. First, be open to learning from every angle. Your professors bring a wealth of real-world experience, so ask questions and seek advice on how academic concepts apply to real business situations. Second, lean into the diverse perspectives of your classmates. The students you will meet come from different industries, geographies, and backgrounds. There’s so much to learn from their experiences. Lastly, don’t hesitate to get involved in the BC community. Networking events, guest lectures, and industry panels are invaluable for building connections and learning directly from professionals in the field. Take advantage of BC’s strong alumni network and mentorship opportunities, as they will help guide your career path and open doors you may not have considered. BC offers you the tools, but it’s up to you to make the most of them!
How is the BC MSF helping you in your career?
The technical skills I honed in financial modeling, valuation, and data analysis have been invaluable. The BC MSF program has helped become well-versed in Excel, Python, and other financial tools, which made me confident when navigating complex models during my interview process, and now, in my job, where I regularly analyze financial data and create models for decision-making.
Additionally, the program’s emphasis on real-world application through case studies and hands-on projects has been a game-changer. The cases we worked on in class mirrored real business challenges, and the experience of solving these problems has made me much better prepared to hit the ground running in the workplace.