During my internship at the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund’s Office of Investment Management (OIM), I was part of the investment performance unit, focused on redesigning private market performance reports. My project involved creating clear, visually appealing templates to better communicate complex performance data to stakeholders, ensuring key information was accessible, accurate, and actionable. Specifically, I enhanced the layout of the reports by streamlining the presentation of key metrics, improving visual clarity, and ensuring the data aligned with Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS). This project is closely aligned with the organization’s mission to secure the financial stability of UN employees through effective and transparent management of its $80 billion global investment portfolio. By improving the clarity and reliability of the reports, I helped make the organization’s operations more transparent and user-friendly for its stakeholders, ultimately supporting more informed decision making. My work directly contributed to OIM's goal of maintaining ethical investment practices and compliance with industry standards, reinforcing the organization's commitment to financial stability. This alignment with OIM's mission allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the long-term financial security of global UN employees. Knowing that my efforts played a part in supporting those who serve the UN’s broader humanitarian mission was deeply fulfilling. It also inspired me to one day join a UN mission and continue contributing to global economic and social stability.

There were several applicable skills from my MBA that were useful during my internship, particularly in finance and data analysis. I conducted detailed research on performance metrics for private markets and played a key role in designing report templates that complied with GIPS. Specifically, I used my finance coursework as a foundation to analyze investment performance, ensuring that the reports met both accuracy and compliance requirements. I also leveraged my project management skills to collaborate effectively with the team, facilitating smooth communication and alignment across the project. Working with large datasets was essential to my role. My ability to analyze performance metrics, assess trends, and communicate findings clearly helped improve the templates’ overall usefulness to stakeholders. I used my knowledge of financial reporting to ensure that the data presented was both accurate and accessible, enabling better decision making. This hands on experience allowed me to apply theoretical concepts from my MBA to real world scenarios, bridging the gap between academia and practical applications. It deepened my technical skills in financial analysis and reporting while enhancing my understanding of global investment management. Furthermore, the internship honed my ability to work in a professional and international environment, preparing me for future roles in finance and investment. Overall, the experience was a valuable extension of my academic training and personal growth.

One of the biggest challenges I faced during the internship was needing to swiftly master the complex performance metrics related to private markets and ensuring compliance with GIPS. Given the short duration, I had to quickly familiarize myself with the methodologies used by OIM. Another challenge was adapting to the hybrid work environment, which required me to balance remote collaboration with in-person meetings. Staying aligned with the project goals and maintaining clear communication with my supervisor and team was essential. Additionally, I had to navigate the steep learning curve of understanding OIM's performance measurement processes while ensuring that the reports I helped redesign met the organization’s high standards for accuracy and clarity. Despite these challenges, I found valuable support through OIM's training sessions and guidance from my supervisor. The experience taught me the importance of adaptability, strong communication, and a proactive approach to problem solving. In the end, this exposure pushed me to grow professionally and develop skills that will be useful in future roles.

My internship with provided invaluable insights into investment performance analysis and global finance. I gained hands-on experience with private market performance reporting, and learned the importance of accuracy and transparency in financial data. The experience reinforced my understanding of GIPS and the role they play in ensuring ethical and transparent investment practices. On a personal level, the internship taught me the value of adaptability and teamwork, especially in a hybrid work environment where communication and collaboration were key. Working with a diverse, international team also expanded my perspective on global financial management and the complexities involved in managing a multi-asset portfolio. The support I received from my supervisor and colleagues helped me overcome challenges and meet project goals, further enhancing my professional confidence. Overall, the experience was both rewarding and educational, reinforcing my desire to pursue a career in investment management. It allowed me to see the real world impact of financial decisions and deepened my commitment to ethical, responsible investment practices that contribute to global economic stability.