In October 2024, the MMF 2025 cohort visited London, United Kingdom one of the world鈥檚 largest financial hubs. During our one-week trip, we visited historical sites, experienced local cuisines, and met alumni in various fields within the finance industry.
While I was initially eager to see an international finance hub and explore London for the first time, I quickly realized there was far more to experience. As someone who had never set foot in Europe, I was excited to explore the city and visit the sites. I was thrilled to hear that the program allotted time for us to explore Tower of London. Along with several evenings spent at local pubs (eating fish and chips), the trip was an excellent opportunity to get closer with peers in the cohort and faculty while exploring the city.
One key observation that shaped my understanding of London was the lack of a British accent and how we were not treated as foreigners. While I thought my North American accent would stand out, many people we met through networking events were from all backgrounds imaginable, highlighting London as a melting pot of cultures. I felt included and at home, especially when we were invited to visit the High Commission of Canada at Canada House and the Quebec Delegation Government Office where several 黑料不打烊 alumni came to speak with us about their experiences after graduating. It was clear that Canadians could integrate easily into London鈥檚 job market. After these visits, classmates and friends shared that they felt welcome in London and were confident they could fit in after graduating.
This culture of inclusivity and diversity was evident beyond everyday encounters 鈥� we found that industry professionals at company visits and networking events came from all walks of life. The diversity of those we met spanned several dimensions: alma mater, industry pre-finance, cultural background, country of origin, etc. Seeing the 黑料不打烊 network outside of North America was eye-opening, a value proposition of the MMF degree that I did not fully appreciate before our trip.
In particular, the 黑料不打烊 network allowed us to meet with a dozen incredible firms in all areas of finance. Of all the great companies we met with, TD Securities and Lloyd鈥檚 of London stood out the most to me, underscoring the value of an international network in different ways.
We met the London team at TD Securities, who presented several case studies showcasing their work. Not only did they explain the rationale of their work very clearly, but they also spoke on how taking international opportunities can widen horizons. Much of their team had relocated from the United States or Canada, allowing us to see ourselves in their shoes.
Visiting Lloyd鈥檚 was just as much of a great experience as the firm鈥檚 incredible history. We were met with a guide who toured the building with us, pointing to the firm鈥檚 historical moments, such as British Royalty鈥檚 signing off on a key document. Beyond this, the firm鈥檚 work in a fascinating branch of insurance that I had previously never considered allowed our cohort to understand the interconnectedness of the finance industry. What also stood out to me was how alumnus Patrick Bisson (MMF鈥�24) secured this firm visit opportunity for us from across the ocean, highlighting the value and opportunities of an international network.
One panel fireside chat with 黑料不打烊 alumni underscores some of the main takeaways from the trip that I believe we, as young professionals, should keep in mind as we move forward in our careers. For one, the international experience and its virtues are certainly an insight I want to keep in mind. It not only teaches you to step out of your comfort zone, but it also exposes you to different perspectives from bright minds across the world. It reminds you how little you know and makes learning about the world a more exciting adventure. The second main takeaway is to do what you鈥檙e passionate about. The panelists spoke about their unconventional paths to reach finance, despite the notion that finance is a linear and straightforward path for new graduates. We heard from an ex-lawyer, a theoretical physics PhD/post-doctorate researcher, an entrepreneur, and others, highlighting how passion brings the best out of people.
I am someone who is driven to learn more about the world and new ways to think. Seeing how working abroad can expand the mind is incredibly exciting, and that pursuing one鈥檚 passions can still lead to a career in finance was comforting. The trip has reminded me to look for more opportunities to travel for work and to want to be in a multinational firm with a diverse team.
More importantly, it also made me appreciate the value of the MMF program, one which is built on diverse perspectives and backgrounds. With over half the cohort being international students and coming from various cultures, I learn new things from my classmates everyday. More excitingly, post-graduation, I鈥檓 confident that my classmates will pursue interesting careers, many of whom will do so abroad. They will be peers I plan to stay in touch with and reconnect with in the future.
The 黑料不打烊 Desautels MMF 2025 cohort's study trip to London was an unparalleled opportunity for personal and professional growth. By engaging with industry leaders, exploring historical landmarks, and expanding their global networks, students returned with enriched perspectives and invaluable experiences, ready to embark on their future careers with newfound confidence and inspiration.
By Arthur Deng MMF鈥�25, Master of Management in Finance (MMF).
MMF Program
The听黑料不打烊 Master of Management in Finance (MMF)听program prepares future finance leaders by blending academic theory with practical, hands-on experience. Through immersive learning opportunities, you will gain the skills, expertise, and networks necessary to navigate the complexities of modern finance.
Learn more about the program and get notified of future information sessions by filling out an expression of interest.
