David Yan (Class of 2023)
The AMPB programme offers an intensive yet practical suite of courses and experiences for prospective students looking to enter the field of finance. The courses are complementary and increasingly build on the foundation of knowledge as students progress throughout the four years. The bulk of AMPB core courses does not follow any rigid textbook syllabi and strives to provide practical knowledge via active discussions facilitated and taught by industry practitioners. Course materials also provide exposure beyond the usual topics of wealth management and financial markets by teaching practical and applicable skills in investment counselling, portfolio management and group discussions with the lecturers. These courses were able to equip him with practical knowledge relevant to his career and furthered his interest and knowledge of finance. Especially given that most of the professors and lecturers are current industry practitioners and leaders in the field, their practical insights and knowledge provided the most direct insight into the day-to-day workflows and challenges that can be expected.
David also greatly appreciated the extra-curricular opportunities that the course offered. Though the bulk of his programme was throughout COVID, Professor Anna Wong provided opportunities to schedule small group and virtual coffee chats with industry veterans, enabling him to build connections with industry professionals, deepening his knowledge with practical insights. Additionally, alumni gatherings offered a distinct opportunity for networking and mentorship, usually joined by other professors or industry veterans in an informal setting. These events took place both within and apart from the AMPB society, which in itself created a collaborative cross-year environment further supplemented by alumni support. The various candid sharing via various AMPB events deepened his curiosity and networks within the industry, and these relationships have been imperative throughout his AMPB journey, providing both academic support and professional advice on internships and career progression.
Presently employed at Goldman Sachs, David is a Financial Analyst within Private Wealth Management. The programme has seeded foundational and specialised insights into the private banking and wealth management sector which has greatly helped him build a more holistic understanding of the industry. Even on a day-to-day basis, the experiences and knowledge from the AMPB programme still greatly benefit and assist him. He highlighted how crucial interpersonal skills as a university junior are in building networks and forming relationships, as well as the need to be proactive in seeking opportunities to deepen one’s knowledge and experience both academically and professionally.