Course Spotlight - FM360: Options, Futures and Other Financial Derivatives

We sat down with Siar, who took FM360: Options, Futures and Other Financial Derivatives in 2024, to hear about his experience of taking the course, from an average day to how it has helped him grow.

Why did you decide to attend LSE Summer School?
I wanted to experience studying at one of the top universities in the world. LSE’s location in central London connects it closely to the finance industry, so the lecturers have strong industry ties and understand what employers look for in candidates. Additionally, London has a unique energy when it comes to finance, and its beauty and vibrant atmosphere have stayed with me since.

Why did you choose your course?
I chose this course because it seemed both interesting and highly relevant to finance. It covers a range of exciting topics and offers challenging material, making it a perfect fit for someone interested in the financial markets.

Tell us about an average day as a student on your course.
A typical day starts with waking up around 08:00, going for a run or to the gym, followed by breakfast and an hour of studying. I would then meet some friends before my seminar began at around 12:00. Lectures would run from 14:00 to 17:00, and after that, I’d hang out with friends, grab something to eat, and explore the city.

What was your favourite part of your course?
My favourite part was the first section of the course, where we learned the fundamentals of options and futures, and how they are intuitively priced. My lecturer, Dr. Jean-Pierre Zigrand, was my all-time favourite teacher, even compared to my home university professors. He made the material fascinating and engaging, and his passion for the subject was truly motivating.

What advice would you give to students considering your course?
Manage your expectations. If you're aiming for the highest grade, you'll need to put in extra hours. But if you're looking for a good grade while enjoying yourself, there's definitely room for some fun too!

What are your short-term professional goals, and how does your course contribute to these goals?
My short-term professional goal was to secure an internship at a major bank. This course has strengthened my CV and expanded my knowledge of the skills and concepts required to land an internship in the financial industry.

What would be your top tip for future Summer School students?
Enjoy the experience and make friends! This is a fantastic opportunity to build lasting relationships with people from around the world, and create unforgettable memories.

How would you explain your course to someone who has never heard of it?
This course is about learning how financial tools called "derivatives" work. These are contracts whose value is based on something else, like a stock. We learnt how to price them and use them to manage risk or make money. It covers options, futures, and how maths helps predict their behaviour in real-world situations, such as in trading or risk management.

What was your favourite part of studying at LSE?
The beautiful architecture of the LSE campus and its central London location. The city is always buzzing with energy, which added to the excitement of studying there.

Would you recommend your course and why?
I would absolutely recommend this course to anyone interested in working at a bank, especially in markets, trading, or sales. Understanding these topics is crucial for landing an internship or succeeding in a financial career.

 

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.