Disha Rane, '24 Master in Finance: Transforming from Accounting to Finance
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Meet Minnesota Carlson community and learn about the experiences and career connections we offer.
What was your initial reason or motivation for pursuing an MBA?
I had done my Bachelor’s and Master’s in Commerce with a major in Accounting back in India. After working for four years in the accounting field, I realized that I needed to upgrade my skills and knowledge to move forward in my career. However, I did not want to change the entire field, so I started the research. While researching, I found that MS in Finance is more focused on technical aspects of finance, and knowing how technology is changing the finance world, I thought this course would be a great opportunity to build my career in finance. This is when I found the motivation to pursue finance.
Why did you choose Minnesota Carlson?
To be honest, when I went through the curriculum and electives, I decided to apply to the Carlson School of Management. The range of electives was wide, from mergers and acquisitions to real estate in finance or negotiation. So, it was not just financial modeling, which is why I loved Carlson. Also, at Carlson, there are experiential learning projects and Carlson Funds Enterprise, where students are exposed to real-world problems.
What was your most valuable Minnesota Carlson experience?
Prof. Richard’s Class: This was the best class I had at Minnesota Carlson. He always got happy if anyone came up with questions and put all his efforts into solving doubts. The case study he gave us to solve helped us think outside the box.
Experiential Learning Project: I had the opportunity to connect with a professional in an asset management company. He gave me valuable advice on how to excel in my career, how to approach problems, how to present, and, most importantly, how a leader should be. This was an amazing experience.
Program
'24 Master of Science in Finance
Hometown
Mumbai, India
Current Job Title and Employer
Investment Accounting & Reporting Intern at CBRE
Fun Fact
I love to make Mandalas and henna tattoos
Prof. Richard’s Class: This was the best class I had at Minnesota Carlson. He always got happy if anyone came up with questions and put all his efforts into solving doubts. The case study he gave us to solve helped us think outside the box.
How has your Minnesota Carlson experience helped you change your career path and get to where you are?
From being an accountant now, I will be working as an Investment Accounting & Reporting Intern at CBRE. Minnesota Carlson has helped me transform my personality and leave my comfort zone. While conducting interviews or networking, I presented myself better because my concepts were crystal clear. My class had diversity, so I was confident while networking outside campus. I have been responsible for the day-to-day accounting, auditing, and taxation of various clients in India, but I needed to gain experience working in the USA. I attended a job fair conducted by Carlson, where I had the opportunity to meet the hiring managers of CBRE.
What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Carlson’s MS in Finance program?
I would recommend potential applicants to:
- Write the statement of purpose independently, without using artificial intelligence or templates, because everyone has a different story to tell, and it's more interesting than ChatGPT or templates.
- Give 100% for the interview round. Wear a professional outfit and ask questions when the interviewee gives you the chance.
- Be Natural- The interviewer would easily catch when answers are scripted.
- Be aware of deadlines.