Poh Yiyang (FT 2020)
at HSBC
Studying in CityU and Hong Kong opened up opportunities to apply to financial institutions, and after a few rounds during the application stage, thankfully HSBC opened up a door for me to join as an intern. In the 10 weeks journey, we were integrated very systematically and strategically. A wide range of activities which span from training sessions, hit the desk, ESG volunteering, networking events and more were generously offered to us, and I’m glad we made the most out of it.
We had the chance to work with overseas colleagues virtually and we learned actively about the project management systems with the guidance of our team and managers. The ranges of teams are absurd, from system automation, markets IT, app teams and more, I am grateful for the conversations I had with the senior colleagues who opened up my horizon in the bank’s tech teams.
I think HSBC is a good place to be in with flexibility to learn on the job, while it may not be as attractive as Investment Banks to some people, I think you can definitely check it out and apply.
Selena CHEN, Cohort 2018
at Shenwan Hongyuan Securities
The CFFT program played a crucial role in laying the foundation for my career in quantitative finance, equipping me with critical skills in mathematical finance and programming languages. This comprehensive education was inspiring in securing a challenging yet rewarding position as a Quantitative Researcher intern at Shenwan Hongyuan Securities.
At Shenwan Hongyuan Securities, my role primarily revolves around the development of Python programs for automating the backtesting of trading strategies. This task involves a meticulous analysis of financial markets and a robust foundation in programming. The CFFT program's rigorous curriculum in statistical methods and programming exercises enabled me to effortlessly interpret complex articles about trading strategies, including nuanced topics like inter- and intra-day factors such as the smart money factor and active trading factor.
Moreover, my ability to develop Python packages for the automation of factor generation and selection has been a direct result of the skills honed during my time in the CFFT program. Additionally, my responsibilities extended to innovating and reengineering basic operators, all while maintaining the effectiveness of neutralized factors, which was achieved through the implementation of the genetic programming algorithm.
The CFFT program not only provided me with a solid theoretical foundation but also honed my practical skills, enabling me to navigate and contribute effectively in a dynamic and complex financial industry. The CFFT program was instrumental in preparing me for a successful internship in quantitative research. It offered an in-depth understanding of financial markets, advanced programming skills, and the ability to apply statistical knowledge creatively and effectively. This comprehensive educational experience has been crucial in shaping my career path and has provided me with the tools necessary to make some contributions in the field of quantitative finance.
Lindsey Chen Meiling
BSc in Computational Finance ‘2023
Andreas
BSc Computational Finance and Financial Technology ‘2023
"Two Fresh Graduates Joining HSBC upon Graduation"
Two College of Business fresh graduates (Class of 2023), Lindsey Chen and Andreas, were offered jobs by HSBC after the internship opportunities at the bank during their studies at the College of Business. Lindsey Chen is now an Incoming Graduate Analyst in HSBC Global Markets while Andreas on the Graduate Programme of HSBC Private Banking.
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Ken Tsang
BSc Computational Finance, 2018 Cohort
"Internship at J.P. Morgan"
Ken Tsang is a final-year student majoring in Computational Finance and he was admitted to the programme through JUPAS four years ago. Last summer, he had an internship at J.P. Morgan and joined the J.P. Morgan Global Finance and Business Management summer analyst programme and worked in the finance project management team.
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Shangzheng BA
BSc Computational Finance, 2018 Cohort
"Internship at Morgan Stanley’s New York Office"
Shanzheng BA is a student on the Joint Bachelor's Degree Program between CityU and Columbia University. He majored in computational Finance at CityU and he is now in the final year of study at the ColumbiaU. Last summer, he had an internship at Morgan Stanley's New York office, and was then given a return offer. He will be joining the company’s Fixed Income Division, Foreign Exchange Trading and Structuring Team as a full-time analyst on his graduation later this year.
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Yixuan DUAN
BSc Computational Finance, 2017 Cohort
"My college life with Computational Finance"
Yixuan Duan is a final year student of the College’s BSc Computational Finance programme (The programme is now renamed BSc Computational Finance and Financial Technology ). She has just accepted a return offer from Credit Suisse after she finished her summer internship with the Bank in 2020. Here she shares her college life and internship experience.
I was admitted to City University of Hong Kong in 2017, and I chose Computational Finance (CFIN) as my first preference. Unfortunately, I failed to enter CFIN programme in year 1, but I believed the programme will be the best fit for me, with structured courses helpful to develop practical skills in the real industry.
In the first year in CityU, I strived to take several mathematical courses and learn Python on my own to make myself competitive in the major transfer selection. In the end, I managed to transfer to the Computational Finance major.
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Chun-shen WONG and Lujia YANG
BSc Computational Finance, 2016 Cohort
"Outstanding graduates kick off brilliant careers"
High performing graduates of City University of Hong Kong (CityU) have got off to a brilliant start in their careers after securing promising job offers from local and overseas corporations.
Mr Wong Chun-shen and Ms Yang Lujia, both fresh graduates majoring in Computational Finance in the Department of Economics and Finance, outperformed their counterparts, impressing employers with their versatility and exceptional skills. They received job offers with immense development potential and salaries significantly higher than average for fresh graduates during their final year of study.
After receiving job offers from major local and overseas corporations, Mr Wong accepted a Hong Kong-based offer as a quantitative trader. He made the decision because he looked at the long-term growth prospects for his career. “The company has a lot of trust in me and delegated a high level of responsibility to me. This is encouraging, and I believe this will help me build a successful career.”
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Chun-shen WONG
BSc Computational Finance, 2016 Cohort
“The Computational Finance expressway to success”
CS Wong is a year four Computational Finance major, who has accepted an offer to work with XY Capital in Hong Kong after graduation. CS won second prize in an algorithm trading competition organised by the University of Toronto, Rotman School of Management in 2019 (Rotman International Trading Competition). Here he tells us why he chose to study at CityU and start his career in Hong Kong.
When I was back in Malaysia I never once considered coming to Hong Kong. That's the truth. I got offers from top universities around the globe and was looking to study in the US or Europe. But then one of my friends at CityU told me about the Computational Finance programme. I saw what it covered, found that it was really well-structured, and decided to go for it. I am glad I made one of the best decisions in my life.
Computational Finance offers a focused approach to study. In most other universities in the US and Europe, in the first and second years you study the liberal arts. That’s good in so far as it exposes you to a lot of new influences. But if you really know what you want to do, a more direct approach may suit you better.
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Joey HOU
BSc Computational Finance, 2017 Cohort
Joining the Joint Bachelor's Degree Program between City University of Hong Kong and Columbia University
“Path to the ColumbiaU Joint Degree Program”
Looking back to the path towards acceptance of Columbia University (ColumbiaU), I am fascinated by how ColumbiaU have valued their final interview.
As a CFIN student from CB, CityU, the first impression I have left on the interviewer was a student with solid and rich foundation of science. A variety of math class experiences have helped me being able to ask for more advanced courses in ColumbiaU, and the integrated programming courses from CFIN’s carefully designed curriculum have given me enough confidence to begin my computer science major in ColumbiaU. Moreover, by keeping following the scheduled pace of a CFIN student, I could easily put plenty of extra-curricular internships and activities, such as being a PALSI leader for two math courses and taking the seat of Internal Vice President of CityU Choir, both on my timetable and on my personal resume. Finally, the interviewer, the one who is also the Dean of ColumbiaU’s Admission Office, has been impressed and has gladly given me the acceptance offer.
I always believe that the success of that interview should be credited to perseverance, determination and, most importantly, the valuable education and experience I have received from CFIN, CityU.
Frank ZHANG
BSc Computational Finance, 2016 Cohort
Internship as Execution Quant in Daiwa Capital Market
“Solid Curriculum Prepared Me for International Trading Competition and My Career”
I have been in Computational Finance program for three years and also spent a happy life with this program.
The course offered by this program is quite solid and practical, though it does take effort to get a good grade, but what we can get from them must be worth our effort. They help me a lot to do better in my career and further study.
In addition to regular courses offered by this program, I also made to participate in the Rotman International Trading Competition in Toronto sponsored and advised by EF department, which is an excellent experience for me.
Moreover, I worked in Daiwa Capital Market as an Execution Quant covering the Cash-Equity trading in APAC markets. It’s quite relevant to this program and what taught by this program. I enjoyed this experience a lot.
Appreciate this program and all faculty and staff in this program for offering me such a wonderful university life.
Jason SZE
BSc Computational Finance, 2016 Cohort
Internship in Lamivoie Capital Partners
“Internship in Venture Capital Inspires My Career Planning”
I believe most CFFT students are willing to invest themselves and work hard for their future. You will have a good study environment where CFFT is a great major for students who are willing to take up a challenge and learn the tech skills used in Finance.
CFIN provides fundamental knowledge in mathematical finance and computer programming such as Advanced Excel, C++, VBA, R and Python. Most of them are useful in job hunting and the remaining are important in further study and senior job hunting. Of course, it is impossible to apply all you learn in the real world, but at least you will know what is going on if you want to enter the finance market or/and seek a job in Finance.
In my Year 3 summer internship, I worked in Lamivoie which is a family office and Venture Capital fund. It was an excellent opportunity for me to acquire knowledge about asset allocation and investment in both public market and private market, experience the capital market and work on various investment analysis, such as performing due diligence on Venture Capital. I find the job interesting and suitable for me, and I would like to follow this path to realize my career goal, being a portfolio manager in the future.
If you have interest in Finance, you will find yourself when you choose CFFT as your major!
