Meet the MSF Ambassadors

We invite you to schedule your one on one Zoom chat with our current students who graciously serve as the MSF ambassadors. They look forward to sharing their experience/knowledge about MSF, Gies and UIUC with you. Read their short bios below and click here to submit your request to chat with our student ambassadors.

Mehri Aliyeva

Bachelor of Business Administration

ADA University, Azerbaijan

Languages : English, Azerbaijani, French, Russian, Turkish

from Baku, Azerbaijan

About Mehri:

I am a first year MSF student. Upon obtaining my undergraduate degree in Business Administration, I worked for 2 Big-4 companies for 3 years as an Audit Associate and was promoted to a Senior Associate role. With the goal of leveraging my strong background in financial analysis and becoming a well-rounded finance professional, I joined the MSF program at Gies which is renowned for its cutting-edge research and distinguished faculty. I am currently pursuing Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program and planning to build my career in Asset Management/Investment Banking industry.

Tzu-Yi (Nicole) Chang

Bachelor of Science in Finance

National Taiwan University, Taiwan

Languages : English, Mandarin Chinese

from Taipei, Taiwan

About Tzu-Yi (Nicole):

I am a first year MSF student from Taiwan. I have been actively engaging in multiple internship opportunities, cultivating a strong interest in, but not limited to, the domain of Corporate Finance. I anticipate myself to continuously elevate my proficiency in the dynamic field of finance and gain certifications at Gies to fortify my expertise after graduation.

Gerardo (Gerry) Gonzalez

Bachelor of Science in Finance, University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign

Languages : English, Spanish

from Chicago, Illinois

About Gerardo (Gerry):

Following the completion of my bachelor's degree in finance at the University of Illinois, I made a purposeful decision to pursue the MSF program at Gies. With a focus on data analytics and strategic financial decision-making, the MSF program equips me with the skills necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving financial landscape. This comprehensive education lays the foundation for my goal to leverage my dual expertise in finance, combining academic knowledge with practical experience to contribute effectively to the finance field. Drawing on my academic endeavors and experience in mentoring fellow students on campus, I eagerly look forward to providing guidance to incoming MSF students.

Jieshen Kong

Bachelor of Science in Financial Statistics

Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China

Languages : English, Mandarin Chinese

from Zhejiang, China

About Jieshen:

I am a first year MSF student specializing in Data Analytics and Fintech. With professional experience as a Data Analyst Intern during my previous internship, I have honed my skills in time series analysis, risk assessment, and data-driven investment strategies. Looking ahead, I aspire to leverage my expertise in finance and data science to drive innovative solutions and strategic insights within the global retail industry.

Dhruv Kothari

Bachelor of Commerce & Master of Commerce

University of Mumbai, India

Languages : English, Hindi

from Mumbai, India

About Dhruv:

I am a second year MSF student. After earning my bachelor's degree in India, I began my career as a research analyst at Citigroup. Driven by a passion for expanding my knowledge and specializing in core finance, I found the Gies MSF program to be an ideal fit, offering a blend of relevant coursework, world-class faculty, and a stellar reputation. Looking forward, I am looking to pursuing a career in Investment Banking and Equity Research.

Vedant Thacker

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Accounting and Finance

University of Warwick, United Kingdom

Languages : English, Hindi and Gujarati

from Mumbai, India

About Vedant:

I am a first year MSF student at the Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign. My career goals revolve around investment banking, private equity, and venture capital. Beyond these, I am passionate about asset management and derivatives trading, and remain eager to explore and excel in these domains. I'm excited about the learning and growth opportunities ahead as I navigate the world of finance.

Yijia Zhang

Bachelor of Management

Tianjin University of Science and Technology

Languages : English, Mandarin Chinese

from Tianjin, China

About Yijia:

I joined the MSF program in 2023. My previous internship experience in four different roles in the finance industry confirmed my aspiration to pursue a career in this field. The MSF program equips me with the relevant skills and knowledge to advance my professional development and prepares me for a role as an ESG risk analyst.