The Balance of Managing Academics, Work, and Extracurriculars as an MSc Finance Student

Hi there! I’m Kusum Matlani, currently pursuing my MSc in Finance and a CFA Level II candidate. My days are often a whirlwind of classes, projects, meetings, and various other responsibilities, but I believe it’s all quite manageable with a bit of planning and prioritization.

One of the main hats I wear is that of an Equity Research Analyst for the Consumer Staples sector with the Student Investment Advisory Fund Team (SIAS). This role requires me to stay updated with market trends, analyse financial statements, and make investment recommendations. Juggling this with my academic commitments can be challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding to apply what I learn in class to real-world scenarios.

In addition to my academic and research responsibilities, I serve as a Student Ambassador for incoming MSc students. This role involves helping new students settle into university life, providing them with information about the program, and organizing events to foster a sense of community.

Another aspect of my day revolves around creating content for the SFU Residence and Housing social media handles. From vlogs to reels and YouTube videos, I aim to showcase the vibrant community and exciting opportunities available to students living on campus.

On top of all this, I work part-time as an assistant baker. Baking has always been a passion of mine, and this job not only helps me support myself financially but also allows me to pursue my love for baking.

While it may seem like I have a lot on my plate, I firmly believe in the importance of getting involved in extracurricular activities. For me, it’s not about scoring an A+ in every subject but rather about gaining a well-rounded education. In my experience, being involved in various activities has helped me evolve and grow as an individual.

To juggle my classes, projects, and meetings effectively, I rely heavily on time management and prioritization. I make use of calendars, to-do lists, and reminders to ensure that I stay on top of my commitments. Additionally, I try to allocate specific blocks of time for studying, work, and personal activities to maintain a balance between my academic and extracurricular pursuits.

In conclusion, while my days are often busy and challenging, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Each day brings new opportunities for learning. It’s about embracing opportunities, stepping out of your comfort zone, and evolving as an individual.