Ben Kamara, '24 Master in Finance: Embracing Experiential Learning
Monday, September 23, 2024
Program
'24 Master of Science in Finance
Hometown
Freetown, Sierra Leone (by a way of Piscataway, NJ)
Current Job Title and Employer
Sr. Financial Analyst at Johnson and Johnson
Fun Fact
I'm passionate about collecting world currencies (note). With 40 countries under my belt, I'm on a mission to reach 100 in the next few years.
Meet the Carlson School community and learn about the experiences and career connections we offer.
What was your initial reason or motivation for pursuing a Master of Science in Finance?
My initial motivation for pursuing a Master of Science in Finance was to make a career shift from corporate finance to Investment Management. Driven by a desire to strengthen my financial knowledge, particularly in portfolio management and investment analysis, I was drawn to the program's emphasis on hands-on learning opportunities, especially through the David S. Kidwell Funds Enterprise, commonly known as The Carlson Funds Enterprise. This transition aligns with my long-term goal of developing and introducing a stock exchange in Sierra Leone, my country of origin, to tap into the investment opportunities there and help drive economic development.
Why did you choose the Carlson School?
Driven by a desire to bridge the gap between theory and practice, the Carlson School of Management's MS in Finance program emerged as the perfect fit for my academic goals. The curriculum's focus on real-world application, particularly through the experiential learning project with client companies and the Carlson Funds Enterprise, deeply impressed me. This project aligns perfectly with my vision to gain practical skills and complement the theoretical foundation I aim to build. Carlson's commitment to small class sizes fosters a deeper learning environment, and the personalized attention from faculty and career coaches, especially those specializing in finance, is invaluable for my career aspirations. Furthermore, Carlson's dedication to diversity in the financial field resonates strongly with my values, making it a compelling choice for my graduate studies.
What was your most valuable Carlson School experience?
The Carlson Funds Enterprise has undoubtedly been the most valuable part of my experience at the Carlson of Management. In this program, I was able to apply the knowledge gained from other courses to excel with my fixed-income consumer team on various projects. Learning to use tools like CapIQ and the Bloomberg Terminal was particularly rewarding, as these were skills I had not possessed before joining the Carlson School. Additionally, the guidance provided by our outstanding Managing Director, Susanna Gibbons, was crucial to the success of our projects.
As I prepare to take Level 1 of the CFA examination, the rigorous academic training and resources provided by the Carlson School are invaluable. This preparation boosts my confidence and ensures I am well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to advance in finance.
How has your Carlson School experience helped you change your career path and get to where you are?
My experience at the Carlson School of Management has been instrumental in reshaping my career trajectory. The access to industry-standard tools like CapIQ and the Bloomberg Terminal at the Carlson School has significantly enhanced my analytical skills, making me a strong candidate in job interviews. The support from faculty and the Carlson Career Business Center has also been pivotal. They have not only helped refine my interview techniques but also assisted in expanding my professional network, which is crucial while I'm actively seeking job opportunities.
As I prepare to take Level 1 of the CFA examination, the rigorous academic training and resources provided by the Carlson School are invaluable. This preparation boosts my confidence and ensures I am well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to advance in finance.
What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Carlson’s MS in Finance program?
I recommend that potential applicants thoroughly research the program and connect with current or former students who have experienced it. If you're interested in the Carlson Funds Enterprise, consider contacting Susanna Gibbons or Olivia Starr early to discuss how your previous experience may align with the program.
Regarding employment, while the Carlson School won't secure a job for you directly, it provides all the necessary resources to help you land the position you want. Be sure to begin networking before enrolling; start reaching out to Carlson School alums in your desired field immediately. Additionally, enhance your interview skills through the Carlson Career Business Center. Stephen Glomb PhD and Kathy Weber offer substantial support, particularly to MS Finance students.
