The Transformative Journey of a Young Finance Intern

Embracing the World of Finance

Yi Ke Cao, a 20-year-old sophomore at Singapore's Nanyang Technological University, shares her remarkable journey into the finance world. From a young age, her parents inspired her with stories about finance, igniting her interest in this enticing field. It wasn’t just the allure of money that drove Cao; the desire to have a meaningful career with a positive work-life balance and engaging work environment became just as significant for her.

As a student, Yi Ke found herself exploring various career options. Although she had not set her heart on finance initially, a unique chance to intern emerged at just 16 years old, setting her on an unexpected path.

Landing an Internship at a Hedge Fund

An unexpected opportunity unfolded when Yi was still in secondary school. Through her school’s work-experience program, she discovered a two-week internship with Modular Asset Management, a hedge fund located in Singapore.

While most internships at the time were remote due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this one required on-site participation, providing a rare chance for hands-on experience. Excited to tackle this challenge, she submitted her résumé and a compelling video introduction. Despite competing against experienced candidates with seemingly superior backgrounds, her curiosity and eagerness to learn shone through, ultimately securing her a coveted position.

Experiencing the Challenges of a New Environment

Starting the internship in December 2020, Yi found herself the youngest intern in a daunting new environment. The initial days were filled with nerves as she grappled with feelings of uncertainty regarding what was expected of her and how she could contribute to the team. However, she quickly learned to adapt and faced the steep learning curve head-on.

Having only a foundational knowledge of Excel, Yi pushed herself to master advanced techniques to aid her supervisors in compiling essential financial reports. The skills she acquired during this two-week experience proved invaluable, often aiding her studies in business school today.

Building Confidence Through Experience

Throughout her time at Modular Asset Management, Yi observed various departmental functions and engaged in insightful strategic discussions. This exposure provided her with a better understanding of the corporate mechanism, including how crucial decision-making processes unfold in a fast-paced hedge fund environment.

Though she worked on smaller tasks, her contributions allowed her to observe the meticulous nature required to excel as a portfolio manager. These experiences helped Yi cultivate a deeper interest in finance and its intricacies, fueling her ambition further.

A Pivotal Turning Point

Looking back, Yi considers her internship an essential milestone in her academic and professional journey. The early exposure to a professional setting not only solidified her interest in business but also reinforced her decision to pursue a business degree.

If granted the opportunity, she reflects that engaging in more internships during her teenage years would have enriched her understanding of the industry, even if the tasks were limited. She emphasizes that early internships could provide young individuals with insights into the corporate world, facilitating informed career choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What motivated Yi Ke Cao to pursue a career in finance?

Yi's interest was primarily sparked by her parents' experiences in finance, alongside her desire for a fulfilling and balanced professional life.

How did Yi secure her internship at Modular Asset Management?

She applied with a résumé and a video introduction, ultimately impressing her mentor with her curiosity and willingness to learn, which led to her selection.

What were Yi's feelings during her initial days of the internship?

Initially, she felt overwhelmed and anxious due to the new environment and unsure of her capabilities, but she managed to overcome her fears through hard work and determination.

What skills did Yi Ke Cao learn during her internship?

She improved her advanced Excel skills, which are now fundamental in her studies at business school, and she gained insights into financial decision-making processes.

How does Yi reflect on her impactful internship experience?

Yi views her internship as pivotal, emphasizing that early career exposure provides a better understanding of the corporate world and helps in making informed career decisions.

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