By Nathaniel Luce
The pandemic, election cycle, and economic uncertainty made for a unique year of recruiting for job-seeking students this academic year. In spite of the challenges, the largest Vanderbilt Master of Science in Finance (MSF) class in history enjoyed substantial employment success.
All 72 job-seeking members of the Vanderbilt MSF Class of 2021 (an increase from 57 job-seeking graduates in 2020) reported an offer of employment by graduation. To date, 99% of the job-seeking class has accepted an offer, with a year-over-year increase in median salary.
Megan Nichols
“There is something special about the MSF program and the type of student it attracts,” said Megan Nichols, Senior Associate Director, Career Management Center and MSF Career Coach. “They are willing to put in the hard work and hustle it takes to land roles in competitive industries in investment banking, consulting, and private equity. This year, specifically, we saw that hard work and resilience pay off.”
“At Owen, a powerful combination of factors leads to student success,” said Cherrie Wilkerson, Assistant Dean for Young Professional Programs, Professor for the Practice of Management, and MSF Program Director. “Our faculty understand the knowledge and skills that our students will need in their careers. Our admissions team identifies students with strong track records and a desire to achieve. And our students work closely together to help each other get the job opportunities they want. Our students deserve these great jobs, especially in this pandemic year.”
Cherrie Wilkerson
A winter lull in hiring gave way to more postings in late February and early March, when companies began filling open roles. Students that had spent months networking with alumni and industry professionals began interviewing and soon landed offers, with several receiving more than one. Overall, 40% of the class received an offer between March 1 and May 1.
Investment banking remained a growing source of interest and opportunity for MSF students, with 50% receiving an offer in the area. Hiring in investment banking increased primarily in New York and Atlanta. The class also earned more offers in private equity and consulting than years past. The full Class of 2021 Employment Report will be released later this year.
“It is very satisfying to see all our students launch their careers successfully,” added Wilkerson. “I wish I had known in the fall that this crazy year would have a very happy ending!”
“We are proud of our MSF students and how hard they worked to land their dream jobs,” added Nichols.
