Student: Wilson Thai
Degree: B. Commerce (Finance)/B.Law at University of Sydney
Mentor: Michelle Leong, Senior Equities Analyst, Australian Ethical
Stream: Investment Management
The opportunity to learn about different business models and combine many fields of interdisciplinary knowledge (economic, political, legal, and industry-specific) to form differentiated investment views has been not only humbling but uniquely rewarding. Investment management stands out to me as a career that fosters continual cycles of learning and self-growth, and the space is increasingly exciting in an era that is unpredictable and constantly changing.
The conversations were illuminating and I very much liked hearing not only her perspectives on careers in investment management but also her broader life advice, as she drew upon her years of knowledge and experience. Some sessions focused on more targeted stock pitch feedback or interview prep, whereas others were more organic catchups. My biggest takeaway was the importance of a passion for learning in the industry.
My mentoring sessions with Michelle were instrumental in helping me land an internship at Profeta Investments – her astute feedback on stock pitches and her consistent coaching helped build my interview skills, helping me feel more prepared during the application process.
My mentoring sessions with Michelle were instrumental in helping me land an internship position at Profeta Investments – her astute feedback on stock pitches and her consistent coaching helped build my interview skills, helping me feel more prepared during the application process. I have had a great experience working at Profeta Investments so far and have had the privilege of working with and learning directly from the fund’s CIO and his former experiences as the PM of a $1bn+ fund at Perpetual.
My primary advice would be to remember that it is a privilege to have a mentor that willingly takes time out of their busy day to share their advice with you, and to hence properly prepare for each chat in an organised manner so that you are able to show respect for their time.
Definitely. I’m particularly interested in small-to-mid cap global equities, particularly in emerging markets. I enjoy learning about new sectors and would love to explore industries such as utilities, financials, and aerospace that I’m currently not as well-versed in.
I hope to work in a sector of finance tailored to my skillset and interests, whether it be in global equities or in investment banking, and be able to be a dedicated, trustworthy, and reliable person to work alongside. One day, I’d like to help pay it forward by mentoring future generations of students interested in working in finance.
On a personal level, my parents are my greatest inspiration, and I’m grateful for the sacrifices they’ve made towards my future. Professionally, I’m inspired by N’Golo Kanté’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a world-class footballer through discipline, resilience, and hard work.
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My advice to others is to remember it is a privilege to have a mentor that willingly takes time out of their busy day to share their advice with you, so properly prepare and show respect for their time.