Sophie Hor

Read Sophie's story

Why did you decide to study MSc Investment & Wealth Management at Imperial College Business School?   

I think the most important factor that made me change from biochemistry to a finance-related field was my career prospects. I couldn’t see myself working in a lab for the rest of my life and working in the world of finance really intrigued me. I decided to study MSc Investment & Wealth Management specifically because I had an interest in private banking and asset management, and particularly at Imperial due to my dad being an alumnus. I was also interested by Imperial’s academic reputation.   

What were the benefits of receiving a scholarship?   

I was lucky enough to receive the Imperial Excellence Scholarship. Other scholarship holders and I were invited to a scholarship reception and scholarship winner panel discussions. I would tell future scholarship applicants to show your passion towards both the programme and Imperial, but also to just be yourself.   

Which has been your favourite module?  

My favourite module so far has been ‘Mathematics for Finance’ because it has really challenged my thinking towards the theoretical aspect of maths, especially within a financial environment.   

How would you describe your cohort at Imperial?   

My cohort is very diverse. Having joined this Master’s programme straight from my undergraduate degree, I am one of the youngest.  This has many benefits, such as learning from those with a stronger financial background, be it through work or simply general life experiences. Additionally, with Imperial being in such a central location, you will find students from all around the world with different backgrounds and cultures.    

Which workshops, events or guest lectures at the school have been useful in developing your skills and knowledge?   

At the start of the academic year, there was an alumni networking event in Canary Warf. This event really taught me the different career prospects I had, but also showed me the importance of networking and applying to jobs early. Having talked to alumni from different backgrounds, I believe I gained both networking skills and assurance that although I had little to no finance experience, it is still possible to get a job in the financial sector.   

What clubs, societies or other activities have you been involved in at Imperial?   

I was fortunate enough to be a member of the Imperial Student Investment fund as an equity analyst. As part of the healthcare team, I take part in evaluating companies and pitching stocks related to the medical sector. If successful these stocks will also be incorporated in the fund’s portfolio.    

How have you benefited from the Business School’s connection to the Imperial College London community?   

Through the Business School’s connection to the Imperial College London community, I was able to network with students not only pursuing a career within finance but in all other fields such as STEM subjects.   

What are your future career goals?  

My career goals are to provide research and information to help others make investment decisions. I hope to use my academic knowledge from my Master’s to enter the financial sector, specifically in private banking or asset management.   

How did the services from Careers help in your professional development securing employment?  

I think the services from Careers help really guided me in the direction I needed to pursue a career in finance. They taught me the tips and tricks to applying to internships/graduate jobs, whether it be the timing, interview skills or how to prepare. Additionally, they gave me assurance and emotional support throughout my whole career hunting journey.  

"Additionally, they gave me assurance and emotional support throughout my whole career hunting journey."

Do you think studying in a central location such as London is beneficial for networking and career opportunities?   

One of the best things about living in London is that there are so many universities in the area. With so many students around, there is no doubt there will be a lot more chances to network, which will ultimately result in many more career opportunities. Additionally, the fact that so many companies have an office in London makes it beneficial to study here, as in-person interviews or events are so much more convenient.    

What advice would you pass onto someone who is thinking of applying for the programme?   

The advice I would give someone who is thinking about applying is to firstly have a clear career goal/path in which this Master’s programme can help you achieve. Secondly, learn as much as possible about the programme and find the modules you are particularly interested in. Finally, when in doubt I would reach out to previous alumni that took the programme and get their personal opinion on the matter. They are likely to be really nice and willing to answer any of your questions