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My decision to choose a master’s degree programme in finance was not something I had prepared for since high school (unlike most of my classmates); it was purely a process of elimination. My undergraduate degree was broad rather than deep, allowing me to study various business topics and ultimately make an informed decision. I’m glad I made that choice. Then the search for the university began.
I chose Frankfurt School for the Master of Finance programme primarily due to its exceptional reputation in finance. The university’s strong track record, both in terms of academic excellence and industry connections, made it an obvious choice for me. Additionally, attending one of the open campus info nights and speaking with current students about their experiences further boosted my confidence in my decision. Moreover, the unique three-day model, which enables students to work and study simultaneously, was a significant draw.
Choosing a concentration can be overwhelming, with many people offering advice and suggesting different paths, but there’s no need to worry. Students have ample time to consult FS alumni, study advisors and attend events like the concentration info sessions to make informed decisions. Each concentration is unique and offers promising career opportunities. My advice is to choose based on what you want to learn rather than solely focusing on specific career fields. The university provides a supportive environment with interactive and helpful professors who will help you acquire the desired skills.
I selected the Corporate Finance concentration. I was drawn to courses such as Advanced Corporate Valuations and IB case studies, finding them interesting. Fortunately, my research indicated that this concentration also aligned with my potential career options. This concentration establishes a strong foundation in financial analysis and corporate valuation, equipping me for a successful career in these areas.
With a focus on corporate finance, I knew I could pursue roles in investment banking, commercial banking, debt capital markets, equity capital markets, financial consulting or financial management in corporations.
Since I didn’t have much preparation before choosing finance, I needed to keep my options open initially and then make an informed decision. After researching, I discovered that with the knowledge and skills acquired through the programme, I could envision myself working in prestigious investment banks, leading financial institutions or multinational corporations. The concentration prepares me for positions such as financial analyst, investment banker, financial consultant or corporate finance manager. Ultimately, my goal is to progress into higher-level roles where I can contribute to strategic financial decision-making and drive business growth.
Frankfurt School events and this concentration open doors to highly reputable companies like investment banks (Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, Morgan Stanley), audit firms (Deloitte, PwC) and global banks (Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank), among others. Incoming students should leverage the company events held via FS to expand their network and connect with the company representatives.
Currently, I am actively seeking exposure to different departments to eventually choose the one that aligns with my interests.
As a working student, my life is a constant balancing act between work and studies. A typical day begins with either going to work or attending classes, depending on the day of the week. From Monday to Wednesday, I work as a working student at PwC in the CMAAS department for 20 hours per week. After fulfilling my work responsibilities, I dedicate the rest of the week, excluding Sundays, to attending classes and engaging in academic activities.
Finding time to study during my work week can be challenging, particularly after a full day at the office. However, with time, I have developed the stamina and discipline needed to allocate a few hours after work for studying. It requires effective time management and prioritisation to ensure I maximise my limited study time.
Although challenging, this model has had a significant positive impact on my personal and professional development. It has made me more resilient and adaptable to longer working hours, and the real-world application of the theoretical concepts has enhanced my understanding and improved my time management skills, ultimately giving me a competitive edge in the job market.
Utilise the vast Frankfurt School network to connect with company representatives and industry professionals, establishing valuable relationships for your future career. Concentrate on developing a strong understanding of financial principles, accounting and economics. This solid foundation will serve as a sturdy base for your future coursework and professional pursuits. Proactively seek out internships or part-time positions in finance-related fields. These opportunities will provide you with practical experience, enabling you to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios and gain a competitive edge.
Frankfurt School gGmbH
Adickesallee 32-34
60322 Frankfurt am Main
