How Ana took the leap into M&A

Ana Petrović had already achieved a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance and completed internships in her native Serbia. But she wanted a more international outlook.

She says: “I was eager to further my education and gain the skills needed for a successful career in finance. I was looking for a programme that would give me hands-on experience – and help me carve out my career path.”

Opening up a world of opportunity

Ana’s research led her to Vlerick – and the Masters in Financial Management.

She says: “I knew Vlerick was where I should take my leap. The school has an amazing international outlook and is really well ranked. I wanted to immerse myself in the European financial markets and find my place amongst the endless financial career possibilities.”

And before even arriving in Brussels, Ana already felt at home. She says: “I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship. It was encouraging knowing Vlerick wanted me to join their family. I’m now a very active member of the alumni community – it’s a really nice way to give back and say thank you.

“The programme gave me a comprehensive understanding of finance – and I was able to take part in hands-on projects. It was a great opportunity to put my knowledge into practice.”

Becoming the best version of yourself

Ana believes in the power of taking leaps. She says: “Studying at Vlerick taught me how to step out of my comfort zone. Sometimes you need to take a leap and swim in unknown waters. And that’s what I did.

“Leaving Serbia for Brussels was empowering. It was the perfect opportunity to build the life I wanted for myself. I learned to be more direct, how to ask for the opportunities I want – and how to present the best version of myself. I also gained a new sense of confidence that wouldn’t have been possible if I had not taken this leap of faith.”

In fact, Ana says some of her biggest take-aways from her time at Vlerick are improved confidence and communication skills. She says: “The Masters in Financial Management programme helped me sharpen my soft skills. I became a better communicator and gained great interpersonal, business and presentation skills. I learned how to be a leader – and how to create a level playing field for myself.

“Projects like the investment research challenge were invaluable. It simulated a real working environment, where I had to perfect my time management – and learn how to work within a real team. We did a full equity report for a Belgian company – and had the incredible opportunity to present our findings to them at the end.”

Experiences that build connections

As part of her studies, Ana completed a consultancy project for Brussels-based private equity fund, M80. She says: “My time at M80 was inspiring. It was an excellent opportunity to really put my skills and knowledge to use and learn more about this exciting industry.”

In fact, Ana made such a fantastic impression, she later returned to complete an internship.

She says: “It was great to go back and see some of my recommendations had been put into practice. I knew I had made real impact in the organisation.”

Another highlight for Ana were the international trips that are part of the Masters in Financial Management. She says: “Travelling to Amsterdam and London was amazing. The trips helped me contextualise my learning – and I made connections at many different companies. They were also a great way to bond with my classmates and spend lots of quality time together. It was so much fun.”

And by immersing herself in the learning experience, Ana found great success. She says: “I met a company in Amsterdam who invited me to intern with them. It was incredible to meet such major financial players – and have them take an interest in me. I headed back to Belgium with an even stronger network.”

Gaining a truly international outlook

Vlerick allowed Ana to build a truly international network. She says: “My cohort was really diverse, and very well balanced at the same time. I got to know people with very different life experiences – and understand the way they see the world and business.”

Ana quickly found her relationships were spilling out of the classroom door. She says: “I visited so many of my friends’ families for lunches, dinners and birthdays – they really made me feel at home.

“You’re surrounded by people who become your family. Vlerick is the perfect place to build a strong network of professionals – and make friends for life.”

Guidance to reach your full potential

Ana took advantage of all the services Vlerick had to offer. She says: “Vlerick’s dedicated careers and coaching team are amazing. They provided me with so many opportunities, including clubs, case studies and events. They guided me towards a career I am passionate about – and gave me the tools I needed to navigate it successfully.

“The careers team helped me with everything from enhancing my LinkedIn profile and CV, to brushing up on my writing skills. I was put through mock interviews that really improved my confidence.”

Ana was also a member of a consulting club, where she was able to test the waters and find a career path she loved.

She says: “Vlerick was where my career took off. The school has such a supportive environment – I began to see my ideas inspiring those around me. Both the faculty and my peers gave me the confidence to voice my ideas in my organisation. Vlerick truly embodies the motto ‘Live, Learn, Leap’ – and I try to apply it to everything I do.”

Ana took the leap into M&A

With the help and guidance of Vlerick, Ana found her dream role within the M&A team at Rabobank.

She says: “I’ve recently been promoted to Associate, where I have the opportunity to take even more responsibility and pass knowledge on to others within the team. It feels great to keep learning and create positive impact – and Vlerick was one of the key enablers to get to where I am today.

“Studying at Vlerick allows you to build your knowledge in a hands-on and practical environment. The school has a very supportive community – and the people you meet truly care about helping and guiding you. The alumni network is also incredible – it’s easy to reach out for a chat or guidance. I’ve still got a great relationship with Vlerick, and often give presentations to new cohorts and visit the campuses.

“The school is really dedicated to you, and there’s so much guidance available from people who really care about your future. My one piece of advice would be to go for it – take the leap.”