By Qing Zhong, Alumna of the M.S. in Enterprise Risk Management Program, Columbia University School of Professional Studies
My decision to pursue the M.S. in Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) program at Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS) was driven by a desire to better understand the increasingly complex relationship between risk, technology, and business strategy. At the time, I was looking to accelerate my professional growth and prepare myself for leadership opportunities within the financial services industry. Looking back, earning my degree from SPS in 2020 became one of the most impactful investments in my career.
The ERM program provided a unique combination of academic rigor and practical application. Courses challenged me to think beyond traditional risk management frameworks and consider how organizations can proactively identify, assess, and respond to evolving business risks. More importantly, the program taught me how risk management serves as a strategic function that supports innovation, operational excellence, and long-term business success.
One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the diversity of perspectives within the classroom. Learning alongside professionals from different industries, functions, and cultural backgrounds broadened my understanding of how organizations approach risk and decision-making. The collaborative environment encouraged thoughtful discussion and exposed me to new ways of solving complex business challenges.
The skills and insights I gained through SPS played a significant role in my professional advancement. Following graduation, I joined Fannie Mae as a lead product owner, where I was responsible for leading strategic initiatives, managing cross-functional teams, and driving the delivery of technology solutions that supported critical business objectives. The ability to evaluate risk, balance stakeholder priorities, and make data-driven decisions — skills strengthened through the ERM program — proved invaluable in navigating a highly regulated and fast-paced environment.
As my career continued to progress, I sought opportunities to expand my impact within the financial services sector. Recently, I joined Morgan Stanley as a vice president and product owner. This transition represents an exciting milestone in my professional journey and reflects the confidence, leadership capabilities, and strategic mindset that SPS helped me develop.
The ERM program’s emphasis on critical thinking, governance, risk assessment, and enterprise-wide decision-making remains highly relevant in today’s rapidly changing business landscape. Whether leading product initiatives, managing stakeholder expectations, or supporting organizational transformation, I continue to apply concepts and frameworks that I first encountered during my time at Columbia.
Beyond the classroom, SPS provided access to an extraordinary network of faculty, alumni, and industry professionals. The relationships and connections formed during the program continue to be a valuable source of learning, inspiration, and professional growth.
For prospective students considering the Enterprise Risk Management program, my advice is to embrace every opportunity the experience offers. Challenge yourself academically, engage actively with your peers, and take advantage of Columbia’s extensive professional network. The knowledge you gain is important, but the relationships you build and the perspective you develop can be equally transformative.
As I reflect on my journey from SPS to leadership roles at Fannie Mae and Morgan Stanley, I am grateful for the foundation the program provided. SPS helped me develop not only the technical and strategic skills necessary to succeed in a complex industry, but also the confidence to pursue ambitious career goals and continue growing as a leader.
Views and opinions expressed here are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Columbia University School of Professional Studies or Columbia University.
About the Program
The Master of Science in Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) program at Columbia University prepares graduates to inform better risk-reward decisions by providing a complete, robust, and integrated picture of both upside and downside volatility across an entire enterprise. For both the full-time and part-time options, students may take all their courses on Columbia’s New York City campus or choose the synchronous online class experience.
Learn more about the program here.
