Wesley Lisboa, '26SPS, Wealth Management

1. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to prospective students?

My biggest piece of advice is to really give your best in every possible situation throughout the program. That applies to everything, from the readings and assignments to office hours, and especially the PBLs.

The group projects are where you get the chance to truly connect with your peers, not only on an academic and professional level, but also on a personal one. Those moments go far beyond the coursework and end up being some of the most meaningful parts of the experience.

From the very beginning, you hear that you get out of the program what you put in, and there is no better way to describe it. The more effort and energy you invest, the more you learn, the more you connect, and the more you actually enjoy the entire journey.

2. What are the benefits of this asynchronous program from a learning and networking perspective?

As an international student, I could not have asked for a better format. The flexibility of the asynchronous structure made it possible to balance everything while still getting the most out of the program. I was able to study early in the morning or late at night, depending on my schedule, and still stay fully engaged.

From a learning perspective, the variety of formats such as recorded lectures, readings, office hours, exams, and PBLs allows you to absorb the material in different ways and at your own pace.

On the networking side, I initially was not sure how strong the connections would be in an online setting, especially for an international student, but that changed very quickly. The PBLs played a huge role in that. What started as group assignments turned into real friendships. By the time we met in person at the residency, it genuinely felt like we had known each other for years.

Another highlight is the faculty. They are not only extremely knowledgeable, but also very approachable and invested in building relationships with students. I had several one-on-one conversations with professors that were just as valuable as the coursework itself.

3. How did your career change during and or after earning an M.P.S. in Wealth Management?

The biggest change for me was the level of confidence and clarity I now have when working with clients. The program gave me a much broader perspective and a more structured way of thinking about complex situations, which I apply in my day-to-day work.

As an international student, gaining a deeper understanding of the US market was especially valuable. Many of my clients have exposure to the US market, so being able to speak more confidently and thoughtfully about those topics has made a real difference in how I support them.

Right after the end of the program, I also received a promotion, and I genuinely believe the knowledge and skills I developed played an important role in that. Beyond technical knowledge, I improved the way I communicate, collaborate, and approach client relationships.

There is also a credibility factor that comes with Columbia. Clients and peers recognize the level of commitment behind it, which naturally strengthens trust.

4. Why did you choose the Master of Professional Studies in Wealth Management at the Columbia School of Professional Studies?

Pursuing a master’s degree at an Ivy League institution was always a personal goal, but I wanted something that was truly aligned with my career. An MBA did not feel like the right fit, since I was looking for a program that would go deeper into wealth management specifically.

When I found Columbia’s MPS in Wealth Management, it truly felt like a dream come true. It combined the academic excellence of Columbia with a curriculum that is directly relevant to what I do every day.

Another important factor was the flexibility. At that point in my life, relocating was not an option, so having the ability to study at this level without leaving my country made a huge difference.

Looking back, it was exactly what I was looking for. A program that challenged me, expanded my perspective, and had a direct impact on my career.