How did you find out about the Nicholas Center?

I started my research on the different MBA and MS programs in the U.S. approximately six months before I actually applied. Most of my research was based on the internet; I spent a lot of time going to different schools' websites and looking at the course listings and the current student profiles. I also spoke with a few friends who completed MBAs in the U.S. The first information I found on the Nicholas Center was directly on its website. I was looking for specialized finance programs, and the Nicholas Center for Corporate Finance and Investment Banking was one of them.

School of Business > ACFIN >


 
Dilek Gurel
Nicholas 2006
Macquarie Capital Advisers

Why did you choose to come to Wisconsin and the Nicholas Center?

As I was applying to UW, I already knew that if I was accepted, I would become a part of the Nicholas Center. I was also offered a scholarship. Since Nicholas is an applied program, I thought it would be a great opportunity to gain presentation and project experience during the program. Also, Nicholas is a very specialized program with very few students, which is evidence of its high quality. My contact with the school - before being admitted - was with Cindie Adams, the director of the Nicholas Center, and our conversation only reassured me that I made a very good choice by applying to their program. Lastly, I thought Madison would be an easy place to get by for a student.

What are your career objectives?

My long-term career objectives are to work in the area of financial investments for instance in an investment bank, or for a financial consulting company. To achieve this, my goals are first to gain the skills and knowledge in this area. I am planning on interning for either a financial institution or for a big international company's finance department.

What have you found most surprising about Madison?

I did not imagine how beautiful it would be in the summer! It was very welcoming the first time I arrived.

What do you want to do in Madison?

There are quite a lot of concerts, musicals and theaters in Madison; I would like to go and see an event every now and then. I am taking a French course once a week, which I am planning to continue. A few day or weekend trips to the surrounding areas are also a definite possibility!

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