 | Shage Zhang
Vanderbilt MS Finance Class of 2006
Dean's Award for Academic Excellence in the MSF
Ronin Capital - Research Analyst
Chicago, IL Owen - PhD Finance Program
Nashville, TN |
Why I Chose to Pursue a PhD
While studying in the MS Finance program, I have had a wonderful chance to more clearly shape my future. I first joined the MSF program to build a better career in finance, but now realize that my interests and aspirations are indeed in the academic area. My first step toward this academic world is to obtain a PhD degree. I can keep learning by doing novel research and teaching updated courses, and enjoy a life with a more flexible schedule. My heart will always be excited by intellectual communication with peers.
My PhD Study Plan
I came to the MSF program directly from undergraduate school, and lacked knowledge about the real finance world. Fortunately, the MSF program at Owen provided me with great exposure to different areas in finance, which helped me find my real interests. My special interest lies within corporate finance, and one of the topics I am quite interested in is the impact of IPOs on stock performance in the short term as well as in the long run. I will be involved in this research at the end of my first year of PhD study, which makes me really excited.
How the MSF Prepared Me
The MSF program works well as a bridge to PhD-level study. There are so many great classes that provide a true understanding of different areas in the finance industry. The finance professors here are great. They have great achievements in academia, and moreover, they are always sharing their ideas about business issues with students. These conversations enable me to learn more about the real finance world. The masters level classes are more practical, which will be a good complement for the theoretical study in the PhD program. I also learned about how to work in groups, and how to deliver and present my work efficiently (writing a good report and making a great presentation). These skills are very important for my future research life.
My Summer Internship
I will spend the summer working as a research analyst at Ronin Capital, a trading company in Chicago. My responsibilities include researching historical events on various securities markets, maintaining and improving existing theoretical pricing models, and designing and implementing risk models for management. This will give me exposure to the practical side of asset pricing and risk management, as well as the trading process. A fantastic summer is just waiting for me! The knowledge and skills I gained from MSF program, as well as my offer from the Owen PhD program, helped me open the door to the internship. I know I will benefit greatly and my work will spark ideas for my future PhD research work.
How the Owen Community Supported Me
One month ago, when the MSF program was approaching the end, I was standing at the crossroads of my life. One way would take me out of school to the real business world, where I would earn my living with the knowledge and skills I gained at Owen; the other way would take me down a thorny road of honor—the academic world. The people at Owen helped me make that decision. By talking with professors and listening to their stories, I got a clear picture of the academic career—a fascinating career that fits me well. I really love the Owen community. People here are always ready to help others, and they are willing to share their experiences. That’s the one of the reasons why I chose to stay at Owen for the next five years.
