Course Spotlight - FM350: Advanced Corporate Finance

We sat down with Conrad, who took FM350: Advanced Corporate Finance in 2024, to hear about his experience of the course, from the teaching to his advice to anyone considering the course. 

Why did you decide to attend LSE Summer School?

I decided to attend LSE Summer School because it offers world-class education and the opportunity to study in an internationally renowned institution. I wanted to immerse myself in a fast-paced academic environment that challenges students to think critically about financial theories and their application in the corporate world. Additionally, the summer programme allowed me to learn in a diverse and global setting, which was invaluable for broadening my network and gaining different perspectives on finance.

Why did you choose your course?

I chose FM350: Advanced Corporate Finance because of its focus on critical issues such as mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and financial restructuring. As someone interested in pursuing a career in corporate finance, I wanted to deepen my understanding of these key topics and gain practical insights from experienced lecturers. The course's focus on case studies and real-world examples also appealed to me as a way to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Tell us about an average day as a student on your course.

An average day started with a stimulating lecture in the morning, where key concepts in corporate finance were introduced. These were followed by interactive discussions with the professor and classmates. After the lectures, we often worked on case studies in small groups in seminars, which allowed us to apply the theoretical knowledge to practical situations. We typically dedicated the rest of the afternoon to revision and preparation for the next day, often involving reading materials or working on assignments. I also took advantage of the chance to attend office hours to clarify doubts or discuss ideas with the professors.

What was your favourite part of your course?

My favourite part of the course was the hands-on approach, particularly the case studies on mergers and acquisitions, which helped solidify my understanding of real-world corporate finance transactions. However, what truly made the course stand out was the teaching by Dr. Ashwini Agrawal. He was by far the best professor I've ever had – his deep expertise, clear explanations, and engaging teaching style made even the most complex topics accessible and fascinating. Dr. Agrawal’s ability to tie theory to real-life examples not only kept the classes dynamic but also gave us practical insights into the financial industry.

What advice would you give to students considering your course?

My advice would be to come prepared for an intense and rewarding experience. The course moves quickly and covers a lot of ground, so it’s important to stay organised and keep up with the readings and assignments. Engage actively in discussions, as this is how you'll gain the most from the course. Also, take the opportunity to network with your peers and the professors – everyone has valuable insights to share, and it’s a great way to learn from different perspectives.

What are your short-term professional goals, and how does your course contribute to these goals?

In the short term, I aim to secure a position in corporate finance, particularly in mergers and acquisitions or financial advisory. The FM350 course has provided me with a strong foundation in these areas, especially through its focus on valuation techniques, corporate restructuring, and governance issues. The skills I developed during the course, such as financial modelling and analysis, will be directly applicable to my future role. Moreover, the course has enhanced my ability to think critically and strategically, which is crucial in any finance-related career.

Was meeting and talking to other students on your course easy?

Yes, meeting and talking to other students was very easy. Everyone was open-minded and approachable, which created an inclusive and collaborative environment. The diversity of students on the course, coming from different parts of the world, made the experience even more enriching. We bonded through group discussions, shared interests in finance, and our curiosity about different cultures and perspectives. Whether it was during lectures, group projects, or casual conversations after class, it was easy to connect with others, making the overall learning experience more engaging.

How has your course helped you in your undergraduate degree/career plans?

My career plans are focused on entering the investment banking sector in London, and this course has been instrumental in building the skills I’ll need for that path. FM350 covered advanced topics such as mergers and acquisitions, valuation, and financial restructuring, all of which are crucial in investment banking. The practical exercises and case studies allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge, enhancing my understanding of how corporate finance operates in real-world scenarios. This course has given me the confidence and academic foundation to pursue roles in competitive financial markets.

How did you find the course and teaching experience at LSE?

The teaching at LSE was exceptional. The course was a perfect blend of lectures and seminars, allowing us to understand the theoretical framework and then apply it to practical situations. Dr. Ashwini Agrawal's teaching style was particularly effective—he balanced complex finance topics with clear explanations and relevant case studies. Although the course was quite intense, especially given the short, three-week time frame, the structure kept me engaged and motivated. The professors were approachable and supportive, making the learning experience both challenging and rewarding.

How will the course contribute to your longer-term goals?

In the long term, my goal is to work within the investment banking sector, most likely in London. The course has equipped me with a deeper understanding of corporate finance, specifically in areas like mergers and acquisitions, which are central to investment banking roles. Additionally, the international exposure at LSE, both in terms of the student body and the global focus of the curriculum, aligns with my aspiration to work in diverse and dynamic environments. This experience has helped me refine my career trajectory and build a solid foundation for future opportunities.

 

This interview was written by one of our 2024 Student Ambassadors, who are here to share their stories and help you understand the summer school experience at LSE.