Khaled
Ghalayini

What route did you take into postgraduate study?

A combination of undergraduate study and work experience. I studied a BSc Banking and Finance at the Lebanese American University before working as a business analyst for Mentor Global Consultants in the United Arab Emirates.

When choosing a Masters degree, what did you consider it important to have?

For me, it was a multicultural environment and work-based learning. Both of which were offered by Nottingham Business School.

What were your reasons for studying a Masters degree and why did you choose Nottingham Business School?

What stood out for me were the Major Project options in the final semester of the Masters degree. I was particularly attracted to the Internship Experience Project where I could get real, valuable exposure to the finance industry here in the UK. I didn’t see other universities which offered such an option and I feel that the work experience will make my profile more competitive in the job market.

Why did you choose to study MSc Finance and Investment Banking and what did you enjoy about it?

I have a passion for finance and had already charted a path to getting a job in the investment banking industry. I saw the Masters degree as a way to increase my chances of getting a foothold in the industry, which is very competitive. In addition, I enjoyed living, working and studying in a diverse and new environment.

What are the key skills you have developed studying at NBS?

Research skills and working effectively in a multicultural environment.

Describe what your classes are like and how they differ from your undergraduate experience?

There is more interaction between the students and professors. The debates we have in class are more intellectually stimulating and cover contemporary issues in the finance world.

What do you think sets Nottingham Business School apart from other business schools?

Reputation.

Have you benefited from the services provided by the Employability Team?

Yes. The Employability Team checked my CV and introduced me to the head of Stress Testing at RBS where I eventually went for an interview.

What clubs, societies or other activities have you been involved in at Nottingham Trent University?

I have been actively involved in what NBS offers its students, some of these are:

• Investment and Trading Society
• Thinkubator Challenge
• Course Representative
• EQUIS Accreditation Committee

How have you found moving to and living in Nottingham?

I found Nottingham to be a beautiful city. The people are amazing, super polite, super gentle and caring. I have also improved my English language ability being amongst native speakers.

What advice would you give someone who is thinking about applying for the degree?

Try to get some work experience and make sure this is the right degree for you. It is a very stimulating yet competitive course.

What are your short term and long term career plans?

My time at NBS has definitely broadened my horizons. I am not planning to stay in the UK for the next 4 years once I secure a graduate job.

Tell us about your finance and investment banking work placement

My employer is DB Wood, an investment firm based in Newark, Nottingham. I am actively involved in working on a cost benefit analysis for the firm to develop a technology investment related tool for the business’ clients.

In addition to this project, I am learning how to conduct robust due diligence on companies and industries by researching them, checking financial statements and analysing market data. The team at DB Wood was really supportive and made me feel part of the team straight away.

Finally, in one sentence, how would you describe your experience of studying a master’s degree at NBS?

A great experience, lots of fun whilst getting the right exposure that I need for my future career.