Building Connections and Careers: Highlights from EDHEC's MSc in Financial Engineering Alumni Insights
The MSc in Financial Engineering programme at EDHEC Business School is renowned for equipping students with the technical expertise and practical skills needed to excel in the competitive world of finance. A recent Alumni Insights event, held on the Nice campus, highlighted the programme’s commitment to professional development and networking. Moderated by current student Lia Vilayvong, the session featured Daniel Preysing, a 2022 graduate and Fixed Income Financing Sales professional at Barclays, who shared his career journey and insights into the value of EDHEC’s alumni network.
From EDHEC to a Career in Finance
Daniel Preysin’s professional journey showcases the opportunities available to MSc in Financial Engineering graduates. He began his career at PIMCO, a leading fixed-income investment firm, as part of the account management team. After two years, he transitioned to Barclays, where he focuses on fixed-income financing and money market sales for hedge fund and institutional clients in Central and Eastern Europe.
Returning to EDHEC was a moment of nostalgia and pride for Daniel.
"Visiting the campus and its surroundings is always special. It’s great to see how the school and the programme have evolved since I graduated," he remarked.
Blending Technical and Practical Learning
The programme’s rigorous academic structure was a central theme in the discussion. Lia emphasised its focus on preparing students for the realities of the financial industry.
"Our classes are highly technical, providing us with the tools to tackle complex questions with confidence and perform well in high-pressure environments like trading floors," Lia shared.
The Alumni Insights session also highlighted the unique role of alumni interactions in bridging academic learning with industry experience. "These events let us hear directly from professionals, offering actionable advice that complements our classroom learning," Lia noted.
Harnessing the Power of the EDHEC Alumni Network
A recurring theme was the key role of the alumni network in career development. Daniel credited the network with helping launch his own career.
"When I was job hunting, I reached out to alumni to learn about their roles. One alumnus forwarded my CV to PIMCO, which gave me a distinct edge during the interview process," Daniel explained.
He encouraged students to engage with alumni strategically. "Don’t hesitate to connect with alumni on LinkedIn, even if it feels intimidating. While not everyone may respond, those who do are often eager to help. Events in cities like London are also excellent opportunities to build connections."
Developing Professional and Soft Skills
The session also highlighted the importance of soft skills in the finance industry. Lia reflected on her experience moderating the event, noting how it strengthened her communication abilities.
"Speaking in front of a professional audience helped me build confidence and refine my ability to articulate ideas clearly—skills essential for interviews and client-facing roles," Lia said.
Daniel affirmed the value of communication skills. "Strong communication is key, whether presenting to a group or interacting with clients. Lia’s performance today showed her readiness for these challenges."
Strengthening Ties Between Students and Alumni
Since graduating, Daniel has observed a growing bond between students and Alumni. Initiatives such as the London Learning Expedition trip, which provides students direct access to top financial firms, and an increase in alumni-led events have strengthened this connection.
"The relationship between students and alumni has deepened over the years," Daniel said. "The programme continues to produce exceptional talent, and companies recognise the value of hiring EDHEC graduates. Expanding this collaboration benefits everyone involved."
The Alumni Insights session highlighted the transformative role of EDHEC’s MSc in Financial Engineering programme in preparing students for thriving careers. Combining a rigorous curriculum with real-world engagement, the programme equips students with the expertise and connections essential for success in the financial industry.
For students like Lia, these events offer more than networking opportunities—they provide invaluable insights and inspiration, paving the way for future achievements. By building connections between students and Alumni, EDHEC ensures its community remains a lifelong resource for growth and professional success.