We spoke to Mexican student Pablo López Navarro (MFin 2021) at the end of the Easter term. Here he reflects on his experience so far and shares some insights into the Cambridge Master of Finance.
What did you do before joining the MFin?
I worked for Alvarez & Marsal in the Mexico office prior to coming to Cambridge. I was an Associate in the debt restructuring and performance improvement team where I gained relevant experience in bankruptcy processes (including liquidations) both in Mexico and the US.
What were your reasons for applying to the Cambridge MFin?
As most people know, Cambridge is a top university with regards to academic performance, but I also believe that it is a top university in terms of the living abroad experience. The city is quite unique (the buildings are historical masterpieces), the collegiate system is very interesting and the people you get to meet here from other programmes are very diverse and brilliant.
In terms of the programme itself, I principally wanted to improve my financial modelling skills, broaden my network, and learn from international professionals, and I knew the MFin offered it all. So, it was a combination between the life experience I wanted to live and the skills I wanted to acquire.
Can you tell us about your favourite part of College life?
I am part of the best College in Cambridge, Clare College (I am kidding, all of them are great!). Clare College is the second oldest College, with the oldest bridge on the river and the most beautiful gardens in Cambridge, in my opinion. College life is just indescribable. I have loved it and I am quite nostalgic about it coming to an end. I truly believe it’s a unique experience that I wouldn’t change for anything in the world. I joined the football and rowing teams and the poetry society.
Getting involved with College life is the best thing someone can do while studying in Cambridge. You get to know very interesting people, you enjoy your College´s grounds and the sense of belonging that you develop is beautiful.
Do you have any advice for someone who is thinking about joining the MFin?
Don’t think about it, do it. You will not regret it. There is a clear division between who you are before coming to Cambridge and upon leaving Cambridge. The memories you will make here and the experience you will gain are just incomparable.
Is there anything else you’ve particularly enjoyed about your time in Cambridge?
Punting at night and visiting College bars were my favourite activities. So choose your College wisely, as you will spend most of your spare time doing College related activities. If you like the arts, you can also volunteer at the Cambridge Arts Theatre and you get to see professional productions for free. You can also buy first edition books at G. David bookstore, visit the Whale Café inside the Zoology Museum or go to the Arts Picturehouse movie theatre to watch a film festival movie.