What made you choose finance as your career?

When I reflect on my career path, I realize that I didn’t explicitly choose finance; it chose me. In college, I anticipated working for a small company and never imagined that I would one day be employed by some of the largest banks in the world.  

After graduating, I worked as a database administrator at a small nonprofit. Two years later, I decided it was time for a new challenge. My parents’ friends, who had years of experience in banking, suggested I explore opportunities in financial firms. I was surprised by the variety of roles available and soon realized that my skills were a perfect fit for the industry. 

Once I began my career in finance, I focused on data analysis, then moved through business analysis, risk and control, and process re-engineering roles. Through each role I improved my skills, built my network and participated in leadership-development programs to prepare myself for the next opportunity.

Being naturally organized and detail oriented, I found working in a large, regulated firm to be a great match. I started at UBS, went on to JP Morgan and then to Citi where I work today. Large firms offer numerous opportunities for growth, learning and exploring different aspects of the business—you just need to find them!

What is your current professional title and where do you work? Can you describe a day in your life on the job?

I currently serve as the Head of Business Intelligence for Wealth Operations at Citi. Our team’s mission is to empower the organization with actionable, data-driven insights to enable informed decision-making, optimize operations and achieve strategic goals.

While every day is different, my day typically starts around 8:00-8:30 AM, kicking off with project meetings involving my team in India and colleagues in the UK, Poland and Switzerland. Given the time zone differences, I reserve my mornings for global meetings. From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, I focus on analytical work—reviewing analyses completed by my team, providing input and helping them navigate data challenges. In the late afternoon, meetings ramp up again, focusing on priorities, upcoming projects, resources and various administrative tasks that come along with being a people manager. This time also includes meetings with U.S.-based team members and colleagues. It’s a lot of meetings, but collaboration and communication are key in order to get things done.

Why did you choose Touro/Lander for undergrad?

I chose Touro because its values aligned closely with mine, ensuring I would feel comfortable and supported. Touro offered a wide variety of majors, and I was able to explore different subjects and meet with department heads before deciding on mine. This exploration was invaluable in helping me choose a path that truly suited my interests, skill sets and goals.

How did Touro prepare you for your career?

Majoring in Management Information Systems (MIS) provided me with a solid foundation in both computer science and business. This combination of skills helped me discover my interest in bridging the gap between technology and business teams.

In the early stages of my career, I worked as a data analyst and business analyst. The computer-related courses I took, such as database structure, C++, and SQL, were invaluable. They equipped me with the knowledge to understand how data is stored, extracted, reconciled and utilized. This technical expertise allowed me to effectively communicate and collaborate with both tech and business teams. These early experiences laid the groundwork that enabled me to expand my role over the years to include process re-engineering, data analytics and risk management. Today I continue to use those foundational concepts to contribute meaningfully to my team’s success.

Now, as someone who has been in the workforce for many years, I am excited that I have the opportunity to give back through participating on the Touro Finance Alumni Network’s (T-FAN) Executive Committee. We just hosted our second event in June, where I was able to connect with many other alumni working in my field. Although we all “work in finance,” I found it fascinating to learn about the diverse roles everyone holds and was inspired by their unique career journeys.

What’s your advice for current students looking to enter the field of finance?

The job market can be challenging, but persistence is key. Keep applying and don’t get discouraged. If your resume isn’t getting responses, take the time to revise it and try again.

Networking is also crucial. I landed my first finance job through a friend who worked in an entry-level position at a bank. She passed my resume along to her manager, and that opportunity kick-started my career. I’m forever grateful to her for recommending me.

Lastly, be open to exploring different types of roles. You never know where your career might lead, so use your skills to get your foot in the door. Once you’re in a company, observe what others do and work your way toward your desired path.

When I first began my career as a data analyst, I never would have imagined I’d be where I am today. This progression was fueled by learning from those around me, seizing opportunities and stepping out of my comfort zone. As Sheryl Sandberg said, “If you’re offered a seat on a rocket ship, don’t ask what seat. Just get on!”