As an international student pursuing a 1-year Master’s at The University of Manchester, I was determined to make the most of my time here. Student societies being an integral part of the university experience, I was eager to find one where I could connect with like-minded individuals and collaborate on something we were truly passionate about.

With over 200 student societies to choose from, the possibilities were endless, but one society stood out to me immediately: the Manchester Investment Fund (MIF) Society. From the moment I discovered it at the Society’s fair during Freshers’ Week, I was captivated by its energy and the impressive work the members had done in previous years. The idea of combining my passion for finance with the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals was an opportunity I couldn’t let pass.

What makes the MIF Society truly unique is its inclusivity. Our members come from diverse academic backgrounds, from finance and business to engineering, sciences, and even arts. Some join because they are curious about finance, while others want to build their knowledge of equities or macroeconomics. As someone with two years of equity research experience, I saw an opportunity not just to contribute but also to learn and grow in this dynamic environment. I decided to take a bold step and interviewed for the position of Head of the Equity Department. When I was selected, I was overjoyed and eager to begin this journey with a team that was as motivated as I was.

In the past three months, we’ve achieved so much as a society. On the equity research side, we focused on analysing companies in the e-commerce sector, such as Amazon, Meta, and eBay. Meanwhile, our macroeconomic research team explored pressing global issues like central banks’ rate-cutting cycles and the UK’s budget announcements. These projects have been an incredible way for all of us to deepen our understanding of the practical world of finance while collaborating in a supportive environment.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of the MIF Society is our bi-weekly meetings. These sessions provide a platform for members to present their research reports to the entire group. It’s not just about sharing findings; it’s about building confidence, honing presentation skills, and receiving constructive feedback. These discussions often mirror real-world professional environments, preparing us to navigate collaborative and high-stakes scenarios post-graduation. These interactive discussions, which bring together members from diverse backgrounds to engage in meaningful conversations, have become a cornerstone of our society, fostering both personal and professional growth for everyone involved.

The first semester has been full of learnings and opportunities working with the MIF Society. As we move into the second semester, we plan on collaborating with other finance and business societies in The University for cross learning and networking opportunities. Such experiences would be invaluable in preparing for the competitive job market, equipping us with both technical expertise and soft skills.

Joining the MIF Society has been one of the most fulfilling decisions I’ve made. It’s not just about learning finance; it’s about being part of a vibrant, inclusive community that helps you grow in ways you never imagined. To all prospective students, take the leap, explore your interests, and don’t miss the chance to be part of something bigger. You might just find your own MIF moment at The University of Manchester!

Written by Aditi, current MSc Finance student at AMBS

Related