Equity, Diversity, Opportunities, Career Resources Define UNH Paul

Spotlight on Xiang (Jonas) Cui '23
UNH Paul MS Finance student Xiang Jonas Cui

Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree? Why your particular program?

I want to start a new career and a Master's Degree in Finance will help me expand my knowledge of the field related to current areas of professional specialization. My two internship experiences in  risk analysis and financial assistance made me realize that I have a great interest in the financial field and I need a strengthened background in financial knowledge. My undergraduate experience in statistics helps me with technical support, but I want to have the financial knowledge to help me explore future employment in a related area.

Why did you choose UNH and Paul College?

I think UNH has a good academic environment, as does Paul College. UNH has a culture of diversity and equality. They respect every student who comes to this school from around the world. UNH provides many great platforms to help us present ourselves and discover our interests. The professors and all the business school faculty are very enthusiastic to help us with any academic or career problems.

Tell us about something you have learned/discovered during your program that surprised you. How do you think you will apply it professionally?

During my study of corporate finance, I was surprised to find the power of financial calculators. It can help me to solve many problems that I may encounter in the future workplace. The class knowledge has greatly helped me to have a deep understanding of a company's actions, such as investment and decision-making. The class also has helped me to better understand the problems and meanings that I need to solve when I use a financial calculator.

Looking back on your time at UNH, what are you most proud of and why?

What makes me most proud is the project completed by me and all my team members. In working with different people, I learned a lot not only about how to operate academic knowledge into practical cases but a lot of team experience. For example, I have improved my leadership and communication skills.

What do you like most about Paul College?

Equity, diversity, lots of opportunities, and career resources. They really care about our growth in areas such as  confidence, communication, career, and networking--not just academic aspects--and that's really important to me.

Do you have any advice for others who may be interested in this program?

Be a good team player. Always be humble and tolerant. Study rigorously.

How do you hope this program will help you advance or pivot in your career?

I hope this program can not only help me expand my academic background, but help me become a fast learner so that I can cope and learn any related fields that I may encounter in the future,