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Daniel Caicedo-Ruiz

Daniel Caicedo-Ruiz

Analyst, J.P. Morgan, New York City

BA Business Management (Fast Track), 2013


What made you choose Middlesex University?

I received offers from top universities across the UK however London was my first choice and Middlesex catered for all my requirements.

I liked the breadth of courses available under the 'Business' umbrella at Middlesex. It was a very diverse, welcoming environment and not too far from Central London, which is a busy city that I enjoy being part of.

What attracted you to your course and made you apply?

What most appealed to me was the fact that the areas covered on the course were very varied: from Economics and Finance, to Managerial Leadership and even HR.

The Fast Track option also allowed me to work through the majority of the summer time and complete the course in two years, which was brilliant. It meant I had a head start on my peers when it came to applying to jobs.

What aspects of your course did you enjoy most?

I enjoyed the mix of assessments which ranged from making presentations, developing case studies, as well as writing reflective essays and even dissertation-style reports. The structure wasn't rigid so everyone found a way of getting involved.

I also really enjoyed studying alongside such a diverse mix of students. On my course, there were people from South America, Saudi Arabia, Africa and even the far away Birmingham!

What is your fondest memory of life at Middlesex?

My fondest memory at Middlesex was being presented with my degree and being told I had got First Class Honours! My philosophy of working hard and playing hard paid off.

What one piece of advice would you give to a prospective student interested in studying at Middlesex?

What more could you want than the opportunity to study in London at a university that offers a truly international environment? Middlesex is very multicultural and the access you will get to excellent professionals and methods of teaching will help you to secure great grades. Look no further!

How did your course and time at Middlesex help you to get where you are professionally today?

The Fast Track programme prepared me for the fast moving, demanding business world, while my degree course gave me such broad insight in to different aspects of business across a range of sectors. This means the skills I acquired are applicable in most industries.

What made you choose the industry you work in and what are its pros and cons?

I always wanted to work in the Banking or Financial Services sector because of its demanding nature and the fact it meets my academic interests. The pros are it pushes you to be the best you can be and offers lucrative rewards. The cons I would say are the long hours but I guess you get out what you put in.

How did you get your foot on the career ladder post university?

It's still early days and I am still gaining experience but I researched what I wanted to do thoroughly and looked for roles that met my skills, ambitions, and salary requirements. I then focussed on applying for relevant positions until I secured one that fitted with my requirements. For graduates or final year students applying for jobs, it is important not to give up. Being turned down is normal, so don't be disheartened. Just keep focussed on breaking down doors!

What has been your defining career break or highlight to date?

Being asked to move to New York in order to work for such a big firm for a year was a real highlight. Knowing that someone in the industry took the time to read my C.V. and accompanying personal statement and made me their first choice candidate was a great feeling!

What does the future hold for you?

A lot of trial and error, learning from anyone and everyone around me, showcasing my skills and possibly acquiring better roles in the years to come.

What are the top three career tips you would give to current students and recent graduates?

Work, work, work! There is always the opportunity to have fun in London but the key is short-term sacrifice for long term rewards!

What one piece of advice would you give to the 17/18 year old you?

Don't let anyone make you feel you can't do something, no matter what your background or the so called 'obstacles' that you face.

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