Sooner rather than later, Bryce Yen plans on launching his own business. As a Finance major at Auburn, the Birmingham native believed that a few years of experience in the consulting industry would give him an understanding of the day-to-day operations of a variety of businesses, which would equip him to establish his own venture.

Then, nearing graduation, Bryce realized that “my resources and network at Auburn were not strong enough to give me opportunities at the consulting firms and job I wanted.” Instead of settling for jobs he knew he wouldn’t enjoy, Bryce decided to pursue the MSF. He chose Vanderbilt, he says, “because I knew of the prestige that came with coming to this school, and I could not pass up the opportunity to live in Nashville for a year and experience the life and culture of the city.”

Here, Bryce was able to combine his studies with favorite pastimes like rock climbing, music (he loves to play keyboard and guitar) and sports. But more than anything, he has enjoyed gaining the means to reach his goals. “Originally,” he says, “I had no intention of going to graduate school, but I am so happy at how things turned out. I had the opportunity to meet many new friends, expand my knowledge of finance and get my dream job.

“Vanderbilt put me on the right track to be successful. I would not trade the Vanderbilt experience for any other.”

Fun Fact: During Alabama's state high school baseball playoffs, Bryce hit a home run off future Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston.

I would not trade the Vanderbilt experience for any other.