Written by: Eden Fekadu Gebremeskel, MS in Finance ’24
Joining clubs as a graduate student might initially seem demanding, but let me assure you, it is absolutely worth it. As an international graduate student, I quickly realized that joining clubs was a crucial step I needed to immerse myself in campus life, get to know more about the college, and most importantly, build my personal and professional network. Currently, I am an active member of two prominent clubs within the University: Beta Alpha Psi (BAP) and the Financial Management Association (FMA).
Let me take you on a brief journey through these clubs and how they have contributed immensely to my personal and professional growth.
Beta Alpha Psi (BAP)
Beta Alpha Psi is the international honor organization for financial information students and professionals. It serves as an invaluable platform for those aspiring to kick-start their careers in accounting, finance, or data technologies such as data analytics and management information systems.
The club offers numerous avenues to network with professionals through technical events and gatherings like “Meet the Professionals.” BAP organizes networking events with professionals from various firms to share their experiences. This provides students with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with industry experts, potentially sparking an interest in a particular company and paving the way for future employment opportunities.
During tax season, the club conducts a community outreach program known as The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, aimed at assisting low-income tax clients in preparing their returns. In preparation for this season, in-person training sessions are provided to equip members with the necessary skills to become certified tax preparers. Additionally, the club hosts a variety of fun and engaging activities to help members get to know each other better.
Financial Management Association (FMA)
The Financial Management Association holds weekly meetings where members delve into finance-related topics and engage in insightful discussions. Professionals from diverse companies are invited to share insights on different aspects including personal finance, providing members with a comprehensive understanding of the field and its career prospects.
Participating in clubs like BAP and FMA has significantly expanded my knowledge base and honed essential skills crucial for both my academic and professional journey. Through active involvement in these clubs, I’ve not only widened my network but also gained invaluable insights into the world of finance.
While the prospect of joining clubs as a graduate student may seem overwhelming initially, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. They present opportunities for personal and professional growth, allowing students to flourish both academically and socially. To all graduate students, I encourage you to explore club involvement during your academic journey. It is an investment that yields dividends for years to come.
Bio: Eden was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Her outstanding performance in high school opened the doors to a remarkable opportunity—a merit-based scholarship granted by the Indian government to pursue a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering. While studying aeronautical engineering, she found herself drawn to the financial markets, particularly the dynamic and ever-evolving forex market. Her curiosity was piqued by the statistical and mathematical techniques that underpinned this industry. She decided to pursue a master’s degree in finance at UB to strengthen her skills and expand her professional network in the finance industry.
Beyond her academic commitments, Eden finds immense joy in sports, particularly football, basketball, and tennis. Throughout her undergraduate journey, Eden embraced her love for sports by actively participating as a midfielder on her university’s football team. Despite language barriers, sports became a universal language, enabling her to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. This experience not only led to the formation of enduring friendships but also provided her with invaluable insights into different cultures.
Photo credit: Tom Wolf