By Nick Schiff
At SPS, Ray He:
- Became an expert in analyzing foreign exchange, interest, liquidity, and credit risks
- Learned how to calibrate production models, establish monitoring models, and calculate portfolios' Value at Risk (VaR)
- Secured a risk analysis internship in the investment management field
- Prepared to secure a full-time risk analysis career in the U.S.
Where are you originally from?
I am from Nanchang, China, and I earned my bachelor's degree from Xiamen University.
What drew you to the Master of Science in Enterprise Risk Management at Columbia?
Before I came to New York, I had just finished my bachelor’s degree in China. My major was computational mathematics where I worked with coding and modeling. Most of our courses were theoretical—which I enjoyed—but I hoped to go in a more practical direction.
My internship experience in the financial sector got me interested me in risk management, and Columbia’s Enterprise Risk Management program educational objectives were very attractive. I attended Academic Director Sim Segal’s information session and became really interested in his ideas about integrating advanced theories and cutting-edge technologies, and teaching students how to manage enterprise-wide risks. The challenging but hopeful plan filled me with aspiration, and I finally decide to apply. Those ideas kept me motivated throughout all three semesters, and they’re still encouraging me today.
How would you describe the program?
On the one hand, the academics—including group projects, reports, presentations, and exams—were quite demanding. There is no chance to enjoy a slack week without deadlines unless it’s vacation. On the other hand all my professors, classmates, and alumni were easy-going and supportive, and everyone is willing to help others, academically, personally, and professionally.
Has the program been useful during your internship experience?
I recently interned as a risk analyst in investment management. What I learned from my Financial Risk Management course was really useful. The course taught me how to analyze foreign exchange, interest, liquidity, and credit risks. I used them to calibrate production models, establish monitoring models, and calculate portfolios' VaR (Value at Risk). I also drew upon what I learned from the program’s core courses when I created evaluation indicators of corporate integrity and conducted workshops for colleagues to utilize value-based ideas in the company.
What do you hope to do next?
I’m seeking a full-time position in the U.S. in risk management. Not only do I enjoy identifying, quantifying, and monitoring risks, but also I hope to promote our program to others. I want to teach as an Adjunct Instructor in the program so I can give back to those who have helped me.
Learn more about the Master of Science in Enterprise Risk Management program at Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies.
