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Veteran financial executive Dr. Peter Zangari (FCRH ’89) has some advice for students pursuing graduate degrees in business analytics and information technology that may surprise you.
In a November speech at Fordham’s Lincoln Center campus, he told Gabelli School of Business students that you don’t have to dive headfirst into computer science or programming to succeed in those fields.
Mr. Zangari retired from his role as MSCI’s global head of research and product development in early 2023 after more than 25 years in the financial industry. However, his retirement was short-lived. Last month, he was named partner and head of the Americas at MDOTM, a firm specializing in “AI-driven investment solutions.”
What AI can and cannot do
During the student enrichment event, Mr. Zangari reflected on his professional experience and shared insights on data analysis to better prepare students for careers in the industry. He said technology skills are not as important to long-term success in finance as understanding how to apply technical tools such as artificial intelligence.
“In this field, students do their best to understand how people make investment decisions, then learn about artificial intelligence, learn what artificial intelligence can and can do, and use it to invest. It has to be applied to the way the house makes investment decisions,” he said.
He encouraged students to view AI as a partner rather than a replacement for effective portfolio managers, saying problems can arise when people “think”. [AI] It might solve certain problems, like predicting the future, but I think that’s a really far-fetched idea. ”
living resources
Students in attendance said they appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from industry experts and ask questions about trends, investment strategies, and their experiences with different employers.
“I’m very interested in finance and technology and would like to move into that field after completing my master’s degree,” said Ruth Kissel, who is studying business analysis. “So I wanted to hear from really experienced experts on the same topic.”
The Master of Business Analytics (MSBA) and Master of Information Technology (MSIT) programs are offered in the Information, Technology, and Operations area of the Gabelli School.
In the MSBA program, students learn to integrate analytical techniques, data management, information technology, modeling, and statistical analysis to become more effective analysts and informed users of business data. The MSIT program focuses on systems development and trains students to acquire the technical skills necessary to excel in their IT management positions. Graduates of the two programs have gone on to work at companies such as Amazon, American Express, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
Zangari, who studied economics at Fordham University, said he “spends as much time as possible with students” because he knows how important it is for students to have access to alumni and industry professionals. . He is an adjunct professor at Drew University in New Jersey and a member of the President’s Council at Fordham University. The President’s Council is a group of successful professionals and philanthropists dedicated to mentoring Fordham’s future leaders, funding major initiatives, and raising the university’s profile.
“I could see how the students were leaning in,” he said. “When you talk about your career, you’re talking about your life. Simply put, your career is a reflection of your life.”
Zangari said the opportunity to learn and work with “people from all walks of life” at Fordham was invaluable.
It’s not all about difficult skills, he said. Everyone will have those, but “What makes employees so attractive are people who are very interested in what they’re doing. They’re self-motivated.” They are resourceful.”
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