When Francesco Chirulli first arrived at the University of San Diego as an exchange student from Rome, he didn’t yet know that this brief academic stint would evolve into a life-changing journey. Transitioning from a background in marketing and sales to one of the world’s most competitive finance environments wasn’t easy, but the MSF program provided both the knowledge and the network to make it happen.
In this interview, Francesco shares how the Knauss School of Business at USD helped shape his career pivot, the mentors who guided him, and the advice he has for future finance professionals looking to follow a similar path.
Q: Please share a brief introduction about yourself:
Francesco: I’m Francesco Chirulli, originally from Rome, Italy. I graduated from the University of San Diego’s Knauss School of Business with an MS in Finance in 2022. My journey with the University of San Diego began through an exchange program with my university in Italy, and the experience was so impactful that I decided to return for my master’s. Now, I’m based in New York City, working as an Associate in the Global Banking & Markets division at Goldman Sachs.
Q: How did the MSF program at USD help you transition or solidify your career from marketing to finance and ultimately your current role as an Associate at Goldman Sachs?
Francesco: Before diving into finance, I was in marketing and sales at Colli Drill, a drilling equipment manufacturing company. Being a people person with a knack for sales, I enjoyed that role, but I always had a passion for the markets. I’m fascinated by how various factors - economic indicators, geopolitical events, market sentiment - all interconnect and move the markets. It’s like watching a complex machine where every cog influences the next.
The MSF program at the Knauss School of Business was instrumental in turning that passion into a profession. The curriculum was comprehensive, covering derivatives, fixed income, portfolio management, capital markets, statistics, microeconomics - you name it. This broad exposure sharpened my analytical skills and helped me zero in on my areas of interest.
Knauss also offered a robust networking platform. The professors weren’t just educators, they were mentors who genuinely cared about our success. They connected us with a wide network of alumni excelling across different sectors in finance. This support system was crucial in helping me land my role at Goldman Sachs.
Q: What course or professor has had the biggest impact on your career and why?
Francesco: Professor Carl Wiese was a standout influence. He taught Capital Markets and Ethics, bringing real-world insights from his role as a Portfolio Manager of GROW Funds LLC, a small-cap hedge fund. Learning from someone actively engaged in the markets was invaluable. He showed us how to conduct equity research, valuation, and perform due diligence - skills that are directly applicable in the finance industry. His mentorship extended beyond academics, providing practical knowledge that’s been a real asset in my career.
Q: What surprised you the most during the 10 months in the MSF program?
Francesco: How fast the program flew by when you’re fully immersed. Ten months and twenty classes felt like they went by in a heartbeat. What truly stood out was the diversity within our cohort and among the professors. My classmates came from all walks of life - private wealth management, consulting, the military. This mix created a dynamic learning environment where different perspectives enriched every discussion. Much like in finance, where diverse viewpoints can lead to better strategies.
Q: What is your favorite part about your current work in the finance field?
Francesco: The dynamic nature of the job keeps me on my toes. I work on a variety of projects across different areas, making each day unique and challenging. It’s a fast-paced environment that pushes me to be proactive and stay ahead of the curve. Building relationships with a range of stakeholders adds another layer of excitement. In finance, you need to be alert, adaptable, and ready to act when opportunities arise.
Q: Do you feel the Knauss School faculty and staff supported you beyond the classroom? Were there specific organizations, clubs, professional development events, or spaces on campus that you took advantage of?
Francesco: Absolutely. The faculty and staff at the Knauss School went the extra mile. They didn’t just focus on academics but also invested in our professional growth. They bridged the gap between textbook theories and real-world market applications, which is crucial in this field.
The school organized numerous networking events and encouraged us to pursue professional certifications like the CFA exams. These opportunities were invaluable for expanding my network and enhancing professional credentials - both essential for making moves in the finance industry.
Q: What advice would you give to prospective students looking to get the most out of their graduate education at USD?
Francesco:
- Network Aggressively: Connections are the lifeblood of finance. Engage with your peers, professors, and alumni. Job descriptions don’t tell the whole story; conversations with industry professionals can reveal opportunities you might not find otherwise.
- Stay Open-Minded: While it’s important to set goals, remember that the path to success isn’t always linear. Be open to different roles and experiences - they might become the stepping stones you need. Sometimes the best opportunities arise from unexpected market shifts.
- Absorb Everything: Be a sponge for knowledge - whether from books, professors, or peers. You never know when a piece of information will become invaluable in your career.
Schedule a consultation with an MSF admission advisor if you have questions about the program or want to learn more.
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