by Harsh Shah, MIFFT 2026
“I AM STUCK!”
I still remember saying that to myself one evening after another long day at work. Like many finance professionals, I had reached a stage in my career where things were going well, but I wanted more. Not just technical growth, but global exposure, leadership opportunities, and a community that shared my drive to make an impact.
I started searching for the “perfect” masters programme. One that would challenge me intellectually and expand my perspective. At first, I explored different masters programmes in the US but none of them truly resonated with what I was looking for. I wanted something tailored for mid-career professionals in finance which could build on my foundation and broaden my global perspective.
I discovered the London Business School website. As I began reading about the Masters in Finance (MiF) programme, something clicked. The programme’s blend of academic rigor, practical learning, and an incredibly diverse student body was exactly what I had been searching for. It was one of those rare moments when you just know.
That was the moment the dream began – a mix of excitement, curiosity, and countless questions. Could I really make it to LBS? Was I ready for the challenge?
The Journey Before LBS
Before applying, I reflected on my own path. My journey in finance has been built on perseverance, long hours of hard work, and often juggling multiple goals at once. Earning my Chartered Accountancy qualification and progressing through the CFA exams not only constructed my technical foundation, but also the discipline to push through tough times. Working in equity research exposed me to fast-paced financial markets and taught me how to turn complex data into meaningful insights.
These experiences strengthened my ability to synthesise complex data, communicate insights clearly, and think strategically. These skills are instrumental for the collaborative, case-driven learning environment at LBS.
But something was missing… the global experience, the diverse culture, and the chance to step outside my comfort zone to learn from people who saw finance and the world through completely different lenses.
My search for a global learning experience ultimately led me to London Business School.
The Leap of Faith: Applying to My Dream School
Applying to LBS was both exhilarating and daunting. Every step of the process, from essays to interviews, urged me to reflect not only on what I had done, but who I wanted to become. What stood out most was how human the LBS process felt. The conversations weren’t just about GMAT scores or achievements; they were about purpose, perspective, and potential.
I was fortunate to connect with several LBS alumni during the application process. Their stories, experiences, and advice were invaluable. They shared their personal journeys, challenges, and the incredible opportunities they’d had at LBS – all of which made me believe this was the place where I could truly grow. It was during these conversations that I made a promise to myself: If I ever made it to LBS, I would give back to the community the way they had. And now, here I am, sharing my journey with you, hoping to inspire and guide you as you navigate your path to LBS.
When I received my offer from Admissions, I was overwhelmed with emotion, especially as I was informed, I had been awarded a MiF Merit Scholarship. It wasn’t just financial support. It was recognition of my hard work, my aspirations, and my belief that I could bring something valuable to the LBS community. The scholarship lifted a huge weight off my shoulders and meant I could focus fully on making the most of this opportunity.
Three Months In: Living the LBS Experience
Now, three months into the programme, I can say with complete confidence that the LBS experience is everything I hoped for and more.
From the very first week, I was struck by the diversity of my classmates. In my study group alone, we are professionals from five different countries, representing backgrounds as varied as equity markets, corporate finance, and fixed income. Every conversation opens up a new perspective; every project feels like a glimpse into the future of global finance.
The Investment Management Club is an integral part of my LBS journey. I’m grateful to share that I have been selected as an ExCo member of the club. So far, I’ve attended insightful speaker sessions and networking events that have stretched my understanding of global markets and investment strategies.
Beyond the classroom, I’ve found another source of joy – the LBS Running Club. The shared energy of group runs, early morning training sessions, and friendly races has helped me connect with classmates in a completely different way. It’s amazing how the same people who discuss valuation models by day can turn into marathon planners by dawn!
A Truly Global Community
What makes LBS truly special is its global mindset. You feel it in every conversation, every group project, and every casual chat over coffee on campus.
The exchange of ideas here is constant – not just about finance, but about cultures, perspectives, and ambitions. I’ve learned as much from my peers’ experiences as from any textbook. That, to me, is the real power of LBS: it doesn’t just teach you how to analyse markets, it teaches you how to navigate the world.
Looking Ahead
When I look back on where my LBS journey began, the late-night research sessions, the uncertainty, the essays, and the interviews, it’s hard not to smile. Every step, every challenge led me here: to London, to LBS, and to a community that feels like home.
The scholarship has lightened my financial burden and fuelled my sense of purpose. It’s an essential reminder that hard work and perseverance pays off, and that dreams, no matter how distant they seem, can become reality with the right mix of passion, preparation, and patience.
As I continue my journey on the Masters in Finance Full-time programme, my goal is simple: to make the most of every opportunity, to contribute meaningfully to the community, and to represent LBS with pride in every classroom, club, and professional interaction.
To you dreaming of joining the Masters in Finance at LBS – keep going. The journey can be challenging, but the reward is extraordinary.