Personal Statement for Admission - Essay Example

Personal ment Motives and Ambitions Throughout my undergraduate study I have deepened my understanding of applied mathematical theories and numerical methods, particularly in applying mathematics and computing in the financial sector. The financial markets are experiencing rapid globalization and international economic development; therefore, investment decisions must be based on the accurate analysis of industrial information. Through using relevant mathematical models and computing methods, risk can be controlled and profits maximized.

If this is implemented, then a better investment environment will result and is beneficial for economic growth and increased social welfare. However, in my view, the current financial system is far from perfect because decision making is overly subjective. In addition, the pursuit of short-term profits over long-term stability adds risk to investments and may cause another round of financial crises. By applying mathematical and computational models, more data and information can be processed, such as influential market factors like companies’ earnings and operations.

I believe that my mathematical study and personal interest in financial engineering will not only provide me with the background for a master’s degree but also broad development for my future career. Academic Achievement To demonstrate my quantitative ability, I took courses in real and complex analysis. I scored 90 percent, which was high enough for me to rank in the top 10 percent of test takers. I also scored 90 in mathematical methods, which contained many numerical techniques, such as partial differential equations, that can be useful in the study of financial engineering.

Before entering university I received training courses in computer programming algorithm and languages such as PASCAL and C. I continued to study computational methods and scored highly on both the individual assignment and final exam (score of 87 percent). To prepare myself with for further study and also my future career, I also took courses in probability and statistics and Mathematica, which I believe will be useful in conducting financial analyses. During my first two years of undergraduate study, I managed to score an average of 85, but I am not content with this.

During my final year, I will work hard to enhance my academic and research abilities. Work Experience During the summer of 2012, I worked as an intern in the Bank of China Investment Management’s analysis department. During those two months I was responsible for collecting key data, such as gross profit, dividends, and price-earnings ratios, from companies’ annul reports and then draw comparisons between them. The three main valuation methods that I used were discounted cash flow, comparable company analysis, and comparable transactions analysis.

Through studying data from many different aspects, it is possible to lessen risk and enhance the potential for a return on investment. Accordingly, high return shares can be matched with those of more steady growth and added to a customer’s portfolio. During the summer of 2010, I took part in the internship program at the Bank of China London Branch and worked as an analysis assistant in the corporate investment division. I assisted in collecting and analyzing credit reviews and other financial data for current and potential loan clients of the Bank of China.

I benefited greatly from this internship experience, as I learned the keys to effectively evaluate a company’s credit condition not only through investigating their internal operations but also keeping an eye on external factors, such as a company’s credit rating and the overall well-being of the market. By working in a real world business environment during these two internships, I received first-hand knowledge into how financial services help and shape the world economy. I also equipped myself with professional knowledge that will be useful in studying for a master’s degree and also for my future career in the industry.

Extracurricular Activities During my first two years of undergraduate study, I joined the Chinese Student and Scholar Association. Through this, I helped to organize after-school entertainment events. During these events, I strengthen my communication skills as well as leadership ability. As an added bonus, I also made many friends. In my extra time, I enjoy sporting activities, such as swimming and baseball. I also enjoy traveling to exotic places and experiencing various local cultures and traditions.

I believe that my academic record as an undergraduate student at UCL has provided me with sufficient background for entering a higher level of study in financial engineering. My interests and passions in the area of finance will continue to encourage and inspire me when I am studying in the master’s program at your university.