Name: Laura Deryng
Country: Poland
Year: Class of 2019
Major: Economics with specialization in finance and computer science
Course: FinTech
The FinTech course gave us a deep understanding of fintech industry from both financial and technological perspective.
I took this class because I wanted to explore the world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies, as I see myself working in this area in the future.
FinTech gave me a deep understanding of this industry from both financial and technological perspective. I started the journey with the most important financial tools, methods of valuations, basics of decision making theory or fundraising strategies. Then, the class moved towards unpacking what Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies actually are.
I learned about the cryptographic methods behind Bitcoin as well as the way Bitcoin transactions work. The FinTech class enabled me to see both the benefits and dangers of cryptocurrencies. I also had many opportunities to apply the concepts spoken about in class into the reality. For example, I had a chance to design my own startup, which was a very unique and insightful experience.
We always start with the introduction of a new topic and presentation of the agenda for the class. Later, the professor would give us a lecture about the topic and end by opening the floor for the discussion about what we had just learned.
I appreciate how vivid and full of personal stories or anecdotes our lectures were. One of the things I loved about the style of Professor Rasa Karapandza is that he is very knowledgeable and has a way to make us understand the concepts and experiences he was talking about easily.
When you are trying to decide which classes to take, think about what career you imagined yourself to be in, and what skills or knowledge will be applicable to this particular profession.
You should also try taking a class even if it's just because the course sounded interesting to you!
Economics has a huge potential in terms of helping others and having an impact on their lives. Yet I feel it is a heavily overlooked major.
I was attracted to the global spirit of NYUAD and the diversity this University is characterized by. NYUAD gives me an incomparable opportunity to study across various cultures and locations. I also liked the fact that as an economics major, I still have a chance to take classes outside of my major.
NYUAD also offers us a broad choice of extracurricular activities, ranging from sports team to cultural clubs.
