Jovana Čadenović discusses why she chose to study investment and finance, as well as her experiences at Queen Mary University
What was your motivation to study an MSc in Investment and Finance at Queen Mary University?
My desire to study in London was indisputable, and the Chevening scholarship provided me with an opportunity to fulfil that desire, however deciding which course to take was a challenge. I was always interested in financial instruments and how investors make decisions. I was searching for a program with both theoretical and applied approaches to finance. MSc in Investment and Finance appeared to be the best choice for me as I could already experience investing process though the Bloomberg trading course and through participation in managing a university investment fund. On the top of it, I found inspiring, the overall campus life and multicultural environment that Queen Mary offered.
Could you share your most memorable experience during your time at Queen Mary?
I will always remember the excitement on the first day and knowing the new challenges I was going to face and how better I could equip myself to turn those challenges into opportunities. The time spent in the library, sunsets from the top of the Graduate centre, walks next to the canal, etc. One of the best feelings was when I submitted my thesis after one of the most intense years in my life. I discovered that I especially enjoyed spending the time in doing research, and then an idea about doing a Ph.D. gradually grew. I spoke to professors, and teaching assistants and they supported me. I realized I would always be a part of academic world.
Could you give us a bit of an insight into your current research in Corporate Finance?
My current research is focused on corporate finance, especially private firms. Decisions made in private firms are very different when they are hidden from the public eye. More than 99% of the firms are private, making their financial behaviour very important to investigate. Currently, I am more focused on their dividend policies. How private firms rebalance between retention and distribution and which factors drive most of the differences in their policies.
My advice would be to aim high, not to wait for any second chance to connect with people, attend courses that interest you, or social events...In one moment of your life, and only then, you will find yourself with such a diverse group of people, with whom you will share your interests, challenges, emotions etc. Those connections are an investment, both professionally and personally.
How would you say your MSc. prepared you for your current research project and are there any skills that you gained from your degree that you still use today?
It helped me in many aspects from quantitative analyses to the main theoretical financial models, which I currently read in much more depth. Importantly, I learned that staying critical and questioning literature are essential. Finally, the intensity of studies moved me forward to develop my capabilities and broadened my interests in the topic.
What advice would you give to prospective students who are considering studying the same degree as you based on your experiences?
My advice would be to aim high, not to wait for any second chance to connect with people, attend courses that interest you, or social events. A one-year master’s degree is very intense, dynamic, and extremely valuable in the long term. In one moment of your life, and only then, you will find yourself with such a diverse group of people, with whom you will share your interests, challenges, emotions etc. Those connections are an investment, both professionally and personally.
Finally, outside of your research, what are you likely to be seen doing?
Outside my research, I would probably be in some performance venue, theatre, or art gallery. Contemporary dance has always been my passion, my favourite way of expression. It fills me with special energy when I am on stage, or just while watching a performance. It is a powerful way of storytelling and a rising voice. London is one of the best cities to enjoy all forms of art and culture, I am grateful for being able to experience it.
What motivates you?
Knowing that all effort I have put in has been paid off in some form keeps me motivated to strive further in my goals. When things aren’t as we imagined, I like to say: who knows why, it’s for the best.
This profile was conducted by Alumni Engagement Coordinator, Hannah. If you would like to get in touch with Jovana or engage her in your work, please contact Hannah Dormor.