Jessica Vo

Michigan State University

Financial Analyst

WPP

Overall Rating:
Training:
Internship:
Mentorship:
Career Development:

Review Date: Oct 25, 2023

Experience Prior To The Program

My finance background before joining the Romero Mentoring program consisted of academic training in finance as a recent college graduate and hands-on experience as a financial analyst intern at one of the biggest companies in the world. I recognized the significance of continuous learning and growth in the finance field, especially during the job search journey. The Romero Mentoring program represented an ideal opportunity to enhance my financial knowledge and skills in a supportive and educational environment. I joined the program to advance my skills, expand my network, and pursue my career goals in the finance industry.

Training Experience

One of the most valuable aspects of the training was the focus on financial statement analysis and company valuation. The program gave me a solid foundation in interpreting financial statements, identifying key financial metrics, and evaluating a company’s financial health. For example, during a job interview for a financial analyst role, I was asked to analyze the financial statements of a potential investment target. Thanks to the training, I could confidently interpret the company’s financial statements, assess its performance, and determine its fair market value using different valuation models. These skills helped me excel in interviews and enhance my day-to-day performance as a financial professional.

The program has been a game-changer in my career development and re-branding journey. It has been a catalyst for my personal and professional growth. The program’s emphasis on hands-on experience, practical advice, and personal development has made it an unforgettable journey.

Internship Experience

The internship experience was a valuable opportunity for professional development, and the training I received at Romero Mentoring helped me navigate the internship’s demands. It improved my technical proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint, which streamlined my responsibilities and allowed me to create impactful presentations. Additionally, the ability to interpret and communicate financial data enhanced my analytical capabilities and ensured that I could provide valuable insights.

Mentorship

My mentors’ professional experience in the finance industry and the advice and tips they provided have driven my success, offering inspiration, practical insights, and a well-rounded approach to my career. For instance, I needed help explaining complex financial data when I started building my financial models. My mentor offered presentation tips and techniques he used to present complex findings. This preparation strategy not only helped me deliver a confident presentation but also allowed me to answer questions efficiently.

Career Development

The program has been a game-changer in my career development and re-branding journey. For instance, I was tasked with building multiple investment presentations as part of the program. My mentor guided me in presenting my best work, including financial models, analytical reports, and presentations. Because of the program, I have work examples that helped me create a visually appealing and informative portfolio that not only showcased my skills but also highlighted my growth and potential in the field. The opportunity, guided by my mentor’s insights, has allowed me to showcase my finance skillset confidently and has played a role in securing opportunities in the finance industry.

Final Remarks

My experience in the Romero Mentoring program has been rewarding. It has been a catalyst for my personal and professional growth. The program's emphasis on hands-on experience, practical advice, and personal development has made it an unforgettable journey. My advice to students who are hesitant about joining the Romero Mentoring program is simple: Take advantage of this opportunity. Being part of this program opens doors to knowledge, connections, and growth that you might not find elsewhere. It's a chance to learn from experienced professionals and gain real-world insights.