LBS MFA profile evaluation

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your profile for the LBS MFA is quite strong, but there are a few areas to consider for further improvement or emphasis:

Strengths:

1. Academic Background:

   • Near top of your class in Computer Science with a minor in Financial Trading demonstrates strong quantitative and technical skills, which are highly valued in the MFA program.
   • Passing CFA Level I and being a Level II candidate adds credibility to your finance knowledge.

2. Professional Experience:

   • Your Big 4 experience in M&A valuation and renewable energy acquisitions is impressive, showcasing your ability to handle complex financial models (DCF, comps, etc.).
   • Exposure to live trading desk operations at a brokerage, including equity and derivative order execution, aligns well with your target career in Global Markets.

3. Leadership and Extracurriculars:

   • Founding and scaling a financial education community with workshops highlights leadership and initiative.
   • Developing fintech software for portfolio visualization demonstrates innovation and technical expertise.
   • National-level basketball experience adds a unique dimension to your profile, showing discipline and teamwork.

4. Career Goals:

   • Your target of entering London Global Markets (Sales & Trading, Fixed Income, Derivatives) aligns well with the LBS MFA program's focus and network.

Areas for Improvement or Emphasis:

1. University Background:

   • Coming from a non-target state university might be a slight disadvantage. However, your strong academic performance and extracurricular achievements can help mitigate this.

2. GMAT/GRE:

   • If not already taken, a high GMAT/GRE score (ideally 700+ for GMAT) would strengthen your application significantly, as LBS places a strong emphasis on standardized test scores.

3. Work Experience Duration:

   • While your experience is diverse and relevant, the MFA program typically targets candidates with less than two years of work experience. Ensure your narrative emphasizes how your experience fits within this range and aligns with the program's goals.

4. Application Narrative:

   • Clearly articulate how your technical and financial skills, combined with your leadership and trading experience, make you a perfect fit for the MFA program and how LBS will help you achieve your career goals in Global Markets.

Final Thoughts:

Your profile is competitive for the LBS MFA, especially with your unique combination of technical, financial, and leadership skills. Focus on crafting a compelling application that ties your experiences and goals to the program's strengths. If possible, secure strong recommendation letters that highlight your quantitative abilities, leadership, and potential for success in finance.

Sources: LBS MFA Interview Experience, European Masters Rankings, Profile Evaluation: MSc in Finance at LBS, LSE, Imperial, Said or MIT