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Liseberth Guillaume

Class of 2025

Why did you choose to pursue communications and digital media as a course of study?

I have worked in healthcare for over seven years, holding both clinical and operational roles. After graduating, I was recruited to work at The Associated Press in Elections Operations. That experience opened my eyes to the world of news and media, and I became fascinated by it. I knew this was the industry I wanted to grow in, but I also understood how quickly it changes. Pursuing this degree provided me with the core skills I needed to establish a strong foundation.

Why did you choose to enroll in the MA in Communications and Digital Media at ���ҹ�����?

As I searched for programs that aligned with my interest in both media and operations, ���ҹ����� stood out. The Communications and Digital Media program allowed me to explore both tracks in a way that perfectly supported my career goals. Courses such as Effective Speaking helped me grow as a communicator, while my media-focused classes expanded my understanding of AI in media and the role of nonprofit news organizations.

Tell us more about your roles as both an assistant operations manager in The Associated Press’s Elections Department and an intern at the AP New York news desk and how your work is meaningful to you.

At AP Elections, I work in an internal and customer-facing operations role. I help connect teams, such as our Decision Desk, Tabulation, Technology, Revenue, and Operations, so that information and planning stay aligned leading into election nights. My role supports the structure behind AP’s results reporting and helps ensure clients receive clear and accurate updates.

At the New York news desk, I am developing my journalism skills through writing, research, and field reporting. My have included the St. Patrick’s Cathedral immigrant mural unveiling, the Grand Central subway scent story, and court coverage involving Sean “Diddy” Combs. I also produced a video story on the holiday-themed subway scent campaign. In addition, I supported coverage of by helping connect reporters with Haitian and Caribbean diaspora communities. Further, I contributed to team coverage of the and appearance at the United Nations.

The combination of hands-on practice and the freedom to shape my coursework in the MA in Communications and Digital Media program has made me feel prepared for my role at The Associated Press.

How have your studies prepared you for your professional roles?

My studies have equipped me with both practical skills and the flexibility to focus on what I want to do in the long term. The program allows me to choose courses that support my goals, and those classes align directly with the work I do at AP. For example, I am currently taking a digital video field production class, and the tools and techniques I’m learning in that course have helped me complete a recent video assignment for the newsroom with confidence. The combination of hands-on practice and the freedom to shape my coursework has made me feel prepared for my role.

What would you like to do upon graduation/what are your career goals?

God willing, I want to keep growing in the news and media industry. This program and my work at AP have shown me how much journalism and operations work together, and I want to continue building experience on both sides. My goal is to grow into a global news leader that helps create space for communities often overlooked and ensures their stories are told with accuracy, care, and understanding.

What advice would you like to give to current students?

I would encourage students to find a mentor in their field of interest. I have a mentor at AP who has helped me grow more confident and reminded me that I always bring something valuable to the table, whether it is my experience or my perspective. Having someone who believes in you and guides you can make a real difference, so I would tell students to find that one person who can support them throughout their journey. I would also say to stay curious and open to taking on different roles. You never know where an opportunity might lead you later on.

Every year, the Center for Undergraduate Research Experiences (CURE) holds the Fall Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry Presentation Series—a virtual showcase of original research by ���ҹ����� students who received summer undergraduate research awards. Guided by the mentorship of dedicated faculty, these presentations offer students an opportunity to hone their communication skills, share their findings, and engage with the ���ҹ����� Community as rising researchers.

In 2023, a ���ҹ����� alumnus attended the event and was struck not only by the caliber of student research, but also by the impact of faculty mentorship on the students. Moved by what he saw, the alumnus made a generous gift to recognize the dedication of these mentors. Assistant Provost for Research Maria Iacullo-Bird in consultation with the CURE Faculty Advisory Board transformed that gift into the Faculty Undergraduate Research Mentor Award, a new award to honor faculty who have demonstrated exemplary mentoring in guiding undergraduate research at ���ҹ�����. The Faculty Advisory Board developed the call for self-nominations and conducted the award review.

Since the establishment of the award, two cohorts of faculty have been honored: Adrienne Kapstein and Sid Ray in 2024; and Eric Brenner, Nancy Krucher, Elmer-Rico Mojica, and Christelle Scharff in 2025.

Meet the faculty mentors helping students turn questions into research-based inquiry, and resaerch outcomes into real-world change.

2024 Recipients

Adrienne Kapstein, MFA

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Adrienne Kapstein is an associate professor and program head of the International Performance Ensemble (IPE) in the newly launched BFA in Performance Making. As both an artist and educator, she specializes in collective creation (also known as devising) and brings this approach into the classroom. Over the past 12 years as full-time faculty at ���ҹ�����, she has integrated more than 35 students and alumni into 12 artistic projects across 3 countries. Kapstein’s theatrical work has been presented at Lincoln Center, Soho Rep, New Victory LabWorks, and internationally in Canada, Scotland, Ireland, Romania, Croatia, and China.

Known for her collaborative approach to performance, Kapstein brings that same energy to student research. “For me, mentoring is another kind of collaboration,” she explains. “There is a give and take between mentor and mentee, and oftentimes the lines blur as to who is leading whom. Although I have more experience, and I am excited to share it, there are many moments when the student’s fresh eye or alternative perspective gives me new insight. Mentoring is reciprocal, nourishing, and energizing.”

That collaborative spirit is exactly what earned her the faculty mentorship award. “Receiving the inaugural Faculty Undergraduate Research Mentor Award was a great honor and further confirmation of how important ���ҹ����� values and supports undergraduate research,” says Kapstein.

Sid Ray, PhD

Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, English

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Sid Ray is a professor of English and women’s and gender studies whose research focuses on Shakespeare and other early modern playwrights, transhistorical dramaturgy, and performance. She is the author of two monographs, three edited collections, and was a co–principal investigator on The Ground Beneath Our Feet, a place-based research initiative supported by a National Endowment for the Humanities Initiative Grant. Ray brings scholarly depth and cultural inquiry into the classroom and received the Kenan Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2016.

“Mentoring students in this hyper-focused way and scaling it up has been deeply rewarding,” Ray says. “It empowers students, giving them authority over their ideas, and life skills for accessing and presenting knowledge in their careers after ���ҹ�����. It also teaches us the importance of place-based, experiential education.”

For Ray, receiving the award was an honor—but the opportunity to mentor students means even more. “I was deeply honored to receive the Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year award in 2024,” she says. “Working with students, acting as their research assistant to help them find gems of information and knowledge that add to our understanding of the ground beneath our feet, that tell those untold stories, has been a great joy.”

2025 Recipients

Eric Brenner, PhD

Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Biology

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Eric Brenner is an associate professor in the biology department, with areas of plant science expertise including pathogen resistance, population biology, signaling, and evolution. As part of his current research on complex plant behaviors, he developed , a software tool that tracks and characterizes plant movement from time-lapse movies—a tool now used for teaching and research in universities, high schools, and middle schools. He is co-founder of the Society for Plant Signaling and Behavior, and his work has been featured in several periodicals, including The New York Times, The New Yorker, and Science Magazine.

Brenner’s passion for biology and teaching is deeply intertwined. “Teaching our ���ҹ����� undergraduate students is not just very important to me—it is truly a personal mission,” he says. “These undergraduates are the driving force behind my research program, and they represent the next generation of science.”

For Brenner, that mission includes preparing students to meet urgent global challenges. “Educating students about plant care is essential for food security.” He goes further, saying, “Plants are fundamental to life on our Earth, teaching the next generations of scientists to manage our environment and food sources is critical to survival.”

Nancy Krucher, PhD

Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Biology

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Nancy Krucher has taught pre-med courses at ���ҹ����� for 25 years, including general biology, molecular and cellular biology, and biochemistry. Her research focus has been on mentoring 90 ���ҹ����� undergraduate students in novel cancer research projects supported by 6 grants from the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health, totaling 1.8 million dollars since 2002. At present her research efforts are focused on designing strategies to treat pancreatic, colon, and skin cancers using new combinations of targeted therapies.

Krucher’s own passion for research began as an undergraduate working in a muscular dystrophy lab, an uncommon opportunity for undergraduates at the time. “As a first-generation college student, scientific research was a complete mystery to me when I entered college,” she says. “I was hooked on research after my undergraduate research experience and now love to share that excitement for research with ���ҹ����� undergraduates.”

That passion has evolved into a deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of researchers. According to Krucher, “My interaction and mentorship of undergraduate students in my research laboratory is the most important and rewarding part of my work as a professor.”

Elmer-Rico Mojica, PhD

Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Chemistry

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Elmer-Rico Mojica is a professor of chemistry and physical sciences at ���ҹ�����. Since 2012, he has mentored more than 100 undergraduates at ���ҹ����� and his students have earned internal research grants, presented at conferences nationwide, won best paper and poster awards, and contributed to 36 peer-reviewed publications. Under his guidance, 34 students have secured internal grants, and many have gone on to participate in Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs), attend graduate school, or pursue medical degrees. As director of the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program, he leads a growing cohort of underrepresented and low-income STEM majors and helped secure the program’s renewal for another 5 years, expanding support for 40 students.

Grounded in the motto Opportunitas, Mojica views mentorship not just as teaching, but as transformation. “Mentoring undergraduate students is among the few opportunities that afford extended one-on-one teaching. It’s where the impact is deepest, it’s the purest form of teaching,” he says.

For Mojica, the recognition of this award is a reflection of every student who has walked through his lab doors. “This award isn’t just about me,” he reflects. “It’s about every student who spent time in the lab, who nervously presented their first poster, who realized for the first time that they belonged in science. They’re the reason I mentor.”

Christelle Scharff, PhD

Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems, Computer Science

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Christelle Scharff is a professor of computer science, associate dean, and director of ���ҹ�����’s AI Lab. Her current work centers on applied and generative artificial intelligence (AI), including the development of AI models for creativity, fashion, and social good.

Scharff has led projects on machine learning, global software engineering, and mobile innovation, with more than 30 papers published in these areas. Her research has been supported by the National Science Foundation, IBM, Microsoft, VentureWell, and Google. She leads strategic initiatives in AI education and research, interdisciplinary collaborations, and international partnerships. She has also served twice as a U.S. Fulbright Scholar in Senegal.

Scharff has diligently worked as a researcher and mentor at ���ҹ�����, helping students gain first-hand experience tackling the real-world problems of tomorrow. “For me, mentoring is about empowering students to think critically, explore new ideas, and grow into contributors to knowledge,” says Scharff. “I love witnessing their evolution throughout the research journey.” She goes on to say, “Receiving the 2025 Faculty Undergraduate Research Mentor Award is a true honor.”

Check out the CURE website at for more information and learn about the 2026 Call for Nominations.

Fintech is redefining the way people interact with money. Mobile payments, digital banking, and cryptocurrency have changed everyday transactions, and emerging technologies continue to push the industry forward. As financial services evolve, companies need professionals who can develop new tools, improve security, and make financial systems more efficient.

If you’re considering a career in fintech, you’ll find strong salaries, job stability, and opportunities to work at the cutting edge of finance and technology. This guide explores high-demand finance and technology jobs, the skills employers value, and the best ways to prepare for long-term success in the field.

What is Fintech?

Fintech refers to the technologies and systems that improve how people and organizations manage money, assess risk, and make financial decisions. These innovations power mobile payments, automate investment platforms, support financial reporting, and drive smarter business operations.

Fintech is also reshaping industries beyond banking and investment. For example, manufacturing firms use digital payment platforms to modernize vendor transactions, and logistics companies rely on financial data systems to manage global supply chains. These applications require professionals who can lead transformation efforts, combining financial strategy with applied technology.

The industry has experienced rapid expansion, and projections indicate significant growth ahead. The Boston Consulting Group estimates that the global fintech market will reach $1.5 trillion in revenue by 2030, representing a fivefold increase from today. This growth is fueled by advancements in artificial intelligence, the adoption of blockchain technology, and the push to expand financial services to billions of unbanked and underbanked individuals worldwide.

Increased customer demand is also shaping fintech careers. A study found that 51% of fintech companies cite strong consumer interest as the primary driver of their growth. With businesses and individuals seeking faster, more transparent, and digitally integrated financial solutions, professionals with expertise in both finance and technology are more valuable than ever.

Because fintech extends beyond startups and digital banks, careers in this field are not limited to tech-focused roles. Traditional financial institutions, consulting firms, and corporations need professionals who can lead digital transformation, manage financial strategy, and develop innovative solutions for evolving markets. Whether you’re interested in data analysis, risk management, product development, or compliance, fintech offers a variety of paths to explore.

Career Outlook for Fintech Jobs

Fintech is expanding quickly, and companies need skilled professionals to support its growth. Hiring in the sector has remained strong, with mid-sized fintech firms increasing their workforce by nearly 13% in a single quarter, even as job growth in other industries slows. This rapid expansion is fueling demand for experts in data analysis, compliance, software development, and cybersecurity.

Salaries in fintech are also highly competitive. A , while , depending on experience. Compared to traditional finance roles, , particularly for professionals with strong technical skills.

While the major fintech hubs of New York, London, and San Francisco continue to experience high demand, opportunities are growing in cities like Singapore, Berlin, and Toronto, where financial services firms continue to invest in digital transformation. Even traditional banks and investment firms are expanding their fintech teams, focusing on areas like digital payments, automated investing, and AI-driven financial advisory services.

How to Prepare for a Career in Fintech

Success in fintech depends on a combination of financial knowledge, technical skills, and industry experience. Some roles require programming expertise, while others focus on regulation, data analysis, or product development. No matter the career path, building the right foundation through education, certifications, and networking can help you stand out in a competitive finance and technology jobs market.

Earn the Right Degree

The MS in Financial Operations and Technology (Fintech) at ���ҹ����� is a STEM-designated program that integrates financial theory with practical applications in technology. The curriculum prepares graduates for roles in securities trading, portfolio management, banking, payments, and financial services innovation. Located in the heart of New York City, this program gives students direct access to major financial institutions through networking events and internship opportunities.

Other relevant degrees may include:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Finance – Ideal for roles in financial analysis, risk management, and compliance
• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science – Essential for software engineering, blockchain development, and data science roles
• MBA with a Fintech Focus – Helps bridge the gap between business strategy and financial technology

Gain Industry Certifications

Certifications can demonstrate expertise in specialized areas of fintech and make you a more competitive job candidate. Some of the most recognized certifications include:

• – Ideal for professionals in investment management, risk analysis, and quantitative finance
• – Focuses on risk management within financial institutions
• – Covers blockchain, AI, and digital payments, specifically for fintech professionals
• – Demonstrates expertise in blockchain programming and smart contracts
• – Valuable for cybersecurity roles in fintech

Develop Technical Skills

While not every fintech role requires programming expertise, many positions benefit from knowledge of the following:

• Programming languages – Python, Java, C++, Solidity (for blockchain)
• Data analytics tools – SQL, R, Hadoop, Spark
• Blockchain and cryptography – Smart contracts, distributed ledger technology
• Cloud computing – AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud (used for scalable fintech applications)
• Financial modeling and algorithms – MATLAB, Excel, machine learning for risk assessment

Gain Practical Experience

Employers look for candidates who can apply their skills in real-world settings. Internships, research projects, and case studies help bridge the gap between theory and practice. Students in ���ҹ�����’s MS in Financial Operations and Technology complete a case-based capstone course, providing hands-on experience in fintech applications.

Many financial firms and startups also offer fintech-specific internships. Companies like Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, and Morgan Stanley recruit fintech talent for roles in trading technology, risk analytics, and payment systems.

Network and Build Industry Connections

Breaking into fintech often requires a strong professional network. Consider these strategies:

• Attend fintech conferences and meetups – Events like Money20/20, Finovate, and the MIT Fintech Conference provide networking opportunities with industry leaders.
• Join fintech professional groups – Organizations like the Global Fintech Association and local fintech meetup groups can help expand your connections.
• Leverage university career services – ���ҹ�����’s and programs help students and alumni secure internships and full-time roles.
• Engage on LinkedIn and industry forums – Following fintech thought leaders and engaging in discussions can help you stay updated on trends and opportunities.

Top 10 Careers in Fintech

Fintech careers span a range of industries, from banking and investment firms to technology startups and global corporations. Employers seek professionals who can develop secure payment systems, analyze financial data, ensure regulatory compliance, and create digital products that enhance user experience. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs in fintech, along with salary expectations, required skills, education requirements, and common industries hiring for these positions.

1. Financial Systems Manager

Oversees financial technology infrastructure, ensuring payment processing, risk management, and compliance systems function smoothly.

• Required skills: Financial software, risk management, compliance regulations, IT security, ERP systems
• Education requirements: Bachelor’s in finance, information systems, business administration, or related field; MS in financial operations and technology or MBA preferred
• Who’s hiring: Banks, insurance companies, large corporations

2. Fintech Product Manager

Leads the development of financial technology products, working closely with engineers, designers, and business teams.

• Required skills: Product lifecycle management, UX design, market analysis, regulatory knowledge
• Education requirements: Bachelor’s in business, finance, or computer science; MS in financial operations and technology or MBA with a fintech focus preferred
• Who’s hiring: Fintech startups, banks, tech companies developing financial applications

3. Compliance Officer

Ensures fintech companies follow financial regulations, prevent fraud, and maintain data security standards.

• Required skills: , , , risk assessment, regulatory reporting
• Education requirements: Bachelor’s in finance, law, or business administration; master’s or compliance certifications (CAMS, CRCM) preferred
• Who’s hiring: Banks, payment processors, cryptocurrency firms, regulatory consulting firms

4. Banking Operations Manager

Manages backend processes supporting digital banking services, ensuring transactions are accurate and efficient.

• Required skills: Banking operations, risk management, compliance, financial reporting
• Education requirements: Bachelor’s in finance, business administration, or economics; MS in financial operations and technology preferred
• Who’s hiring: Retail banks, digital banks, financial institutions

5. Financial Software Engineer

Designs and develops software for digital banking, payment processing, and investment platforms.

• Required skills: Java, Python, C#, APIs, cybersecurity, cloud computing
• Education requirements: Bachelor’s in computer science, software engineering, or related field; fintech software certifications beneficial
• Who’s hiring: Banks, fintech startups, financial services firms, software development companies

6. Quantitative Analyst

Uses statistical models and data analysis to optimize trading strategies, assess risk, and develop financial algorithms.

• Required skills: Mathematics, Python, R, MATLAB, machine learning, financial modeling
• Education requirements: Master’s or PhD in quantitative finance, mathematics, statistics, or related field
• Who’s hiring: Investment banks, hedge funds, trading firms, financial institutions

7. Blockchain Developer

Builds and maintains blockchain-based applications for secure transactions, smart contracts, and digital assets.

• Required skills: Blockchain frameworks (Ethereum, Hyperledger), Solidity, Python, cryptography, decentralized finance (DeFi)
• Education requirements: Bachelor’s in computer science, software engineering, or related field; blockchain certifications beneficial
• Who’s hiring: Fintech startups, cryptocurrency exchanges, investment firms, tech companies

8. Data Scientist

Analyzes large datasets to detect fraud, optimize lending decisions, and improve financial forecasting.

• Required skills: Machine learning, statistical analysis, SQL, Hadoop, Spark, financial modeling
• Education requirements: Bachelor’s in data science, statistics, or computer science; master’s in analytics or financial engineering preferred
• Who’s hiring: Banks, credit card companies, risk management firms, fintech startups

*Note: All salary figures sourced from Glassdoor.com in March 2025. Salaries can vary, depending on factors such as employer, geographic location, experience, and education.

Your Future in Fintech Starts Here

Fintech is reshaping the financial world, and the demand for skilled professionals has never been higher. Banks, investment firms, and fintech companies need experts who can bridge the gap between finance and technology, optimize operations, and drive digital transformation. If you want a career where you can shape the future of banking, investing, payments, and beyond, fintech offers that opportunity.

The right education and experience can help you stand out in this competitive field. ���ҹ�����’s MS in Financial Operations and Technology provides the tools to succeed in roles ranging from financial strategy and risk management to product innovation and technology-driven investment services. Reach out today to find out how ���ҹ����� can help you thrive as a fintech professional.

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FAQ

What are some careers in fintech?

Fintech careers span a wide range of roles across industries. Professionals may work as product managers developing digital banking tools, financial strategists leading transformation at traditional firms, or compliance officers navigating new regulations. Other roles include data scientists, UX designers, and cybersecurity specialists. These jobs exist at fintech startups, consulting firms, and corporations undergoing digital transformation—not just in tech companies.

What is the highest-paying job in fintech?

Salaries vary by role, but fintech product managers are among the highest earners in the field. In New York City, experienced professionals in this role can earn over $250,000 annually, reflecting the demand for leaders who can align financial strategy with technology development.

Is fintech a good career?

Yes, fintech offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities for advancement. As financial services continue to adopt new technologies, demand for skilled professionals remains high.

How do I break into fintech?

Start by earning a relevant degree, such as ���ҹ�����’s MS in Financial Operations and Technology. Gain skills in product management, programming, or data analytics, and seek internships or entry-level roles at fintech companies, banks, or consulting firms. Networking through fintech events and LinkedIn can also help.

Does fintech pay well?

Yes, fintech salaries are often higher than those in traditional finance, especially in roles involving software development, product management, and risk management. Many fintech professionals earn six-figure salaries with experience.

What degree do I need to get into fintech?

Degrees in finance, computer science, data science, or business administration are common in fintech. The MS in Financial Operations and Technology at ���ҹ����� provides a strong foundation for careers at the intersection of finance and technology.