Finance Department Welcomes Fulbright Student from Egypt

The Finance Department at Isenberg recently welcomed Zyad Abdellatif, a student from Egypt, to the Master of Finance program. 

Abdellatif, who comes from the city of Cairo on the west bank of the Nile River, joined the Master of Finance program this fall and will graduate in fall 2023. Abdellatif, who earned his undergraduate degree in finance/accounting at the American University in Cairo, says the MF’s expertise in alternative investments was a major draw for him.

“We have nothing like this in Egypt,” he says. “It’s opening my eyes to new paths and experiences I can take. Even to develop an alternative investments market in Egypt.” He’s also excited to build connections and qualifications in the industry, especially through Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) Association, which sponsors the CAIA Charter, an internationally recognized alternative investments credential. 

Abdellatif, who comes from the city of Cairo on the west bank of the Nile River, joined the Master of Finance program this fall and will graduate in fall 2023. Abdellatif, who earned his undergraduate degree in finance/accounting at the American University in Cairo, says the MF’s expertise in alternative investments was a major draw for him.

“I am currently enrolled in the course on private equity and venture capital. The course provides a deep understanding of private equity and venture capital concepts, principles, and best practices. It covers various aspects of the industry, such as deal sourcing, due diligence, financing, valuation, and exit strategies. Also, the course involves case studies, simulations, and real-world projects, which provide practical experience in the PE/VC industry. This hands-on learning is helping me develop the skills necessary to succeed in my future career. Not only this, but the course emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader economic, legal, and social context in which private equity and venture capital operate.”

Abdellatif is also enrolled in the fixed income course, taught by lecturer Robert Feingold. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to his courses,” Abdellatif says. “His insights can help you understand fixed income securities, portfolio management, and risk management strategies.”

Abdellatif comes from a family of medical doctors. He has one older sister, a microbiologist, and two younger sisters still in high school.

Isenberg’s Master of Finance program delivers the specialized skills and expertise needed to succeed in the complex asset management industry. Asset Management, and the two specialty areas of Alternative Investments and Real Estate, are thriving finance fields in both the United States and abroad.