Author: Sérgio Ribeiro Da Silva

Everything that has a beginning has end... and what a feeling it is to look back on your own path, feeling grateful about the hard choices you made and appreciating both the journey and the accomplishments along the way. “Leaving a legacy requires commitment. And to pursue a dream, we must give it our all.”

Practical application of knowledge is key in the professional development of SMF students. In the blog I highlight how the program balances theoretical learning with real-world experience. Projects such as the Capstone Project, Project Financing, and real client experiences allow the application of fundamental financial analysis, testing our ability to evaluate companies’ strategies, capital structure, financial results, and stock prices. The only way to know if you are ready is by exposing yourself to these real-world challenges.

I’m frequently asked whether Fisher’s Specialized Master in Finance program is a quantitative or qualitative skill-based program. What should you expect? What should you seek? While quantitative expertise in data analysis, financial modeling, and risk management is crucial, qualitative skills like leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence are just as important for navigating complex business decisions. I hope my experience and perspectives can help you improve yours.

As I stood in the empty apartment, memories flooded my mind, evoking a bittersweet mix of emotions about leaving behind the life my family and I had built. After nearly two years of preparation, I faced the daunting leap into the unknown, driven by a deeper purpose: to inspire my daughters to pursue their dreams fearlessly. With my family’s unwavering support, I closed the door behind me, ready to embrace the uncertainties ahead and discover what the future holds.

Being accepted into the SMF Program is just the first step of your journey. Now it's time to prepare. As emotions rise, there is much to do. Let me share some important things I learned along the way.