<p>Angel Ma moved from China to New York City to pursue her <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-management-and-systems.html" target="_blank">MS in Management and Analytics</a> at NYU. This geographical leap was a life-changing experience that led her toward a dynamic and fulfilling career. As a corporate financial analyst in the hospitality industry, Ma now applies the skills she honed at NYU to drive innovation and efficiency in a highly competitive field. We were thrilled to speak with her about her time at NYU SPS and what she has been up to since graduation.</p>

<p>Leaving her home country to study in New York was a significant step for Ma. &quot;The transition from China to New York City to attend NYU was a profound journey of cultural immersion and personal growth,&quot; she reflects. Arriving in such a hectic and exciting city, Angel was immediately introduced to new perspectives and experiences that broadened her worldview. The opportunity to learn and interact in a completely foreign environment challenged her to adapt and thrive in different situations. This openness, she notes, was essential in shaping both her personal and professional outlook.</p> <p>Ma was drawn to NYU for its high ranking, renowned professors, and the networking opportunities that come with studying in the heart of New York City. &quot;NYU SPS is a very diversified place, you can always find your spot there,&quot; she shares. With a curriculum designed to prepare students for real-world challenges, Angel found herself immersed in an environment where learning from professors and industry leaders &quot;opens your eyes&quot; to new possibilities.</p>

<p>At NYU, Ma took advantage of both academic and extracurricular opportunities. The small class sizes and the variety of clubs and events, gave her a chance to build meaningful connections while developing her professional skills. Ma enjoyed the hands-on learning opportunities along the way, like her capstone course with Professor Andres Fortino and the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/experience/how-youll-learn/real-world.html" target="_blank">Real World course</a> with Ernst and Young. Reflecting on the valuable experience, she says, &quot;I took Professor Fortino's <a href="/content/sps-nyu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/division-of-programs-in-business.html" target="_blank">capstone course</a>, which prepared students for the opportunity to join Microsoft AI pitch competitor.&quot; These experiences not only taught her technical knowledge but also gave her insights into the industry's most current trends.<br> <br> One of the most impactful classes for Ma was her Financial Management course with Professor Naples. &quot;They not only teach academic knowledge, but also provide guidance on your next step on the career path,&quot; she says. These courses equipped her with the tools to stay ahead of industry trends and positioned her to thrive in her current role.</p>

<p>Today, Ma works as a corporate financial analyst at Warwick Hotels and Resorts, where she uses her analytical skills and creative problem-solving to support business strategy. The technical skills she developed at NYU, particularly in information systems management, have been instrumental in helping her streamline operations within the financial department.</p>

<p>The ability to automate processes and manage data has been critical in maintaining a competitive edge within the fast-paced hospitality industry.</p> <p>Ma's passion for her career comes from the ever-changing nature of her current position. &quot;What excites me most about my career is the opportunity to directly impact our business strategy through data-driven insights,&quot; she shares. From the Warwick Hotel in New York to the resort in the Bahamas, Angel's work plays a crucial role in improving revenue management and pricing strategies. &quot;Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to innovate and drive success,&quot; she adds, and it's this constant evolution that keeps her passion for her work alive.</p>

<p>Ma's advice for incoming NYU SPS students is to take full advantage of the diverse opportunities available. &quot;You have a dream, you protect it. NYU SPS all faculties would support you,&quot; she encourages. By learning from professors and industry leaders, students can build the foundation they need for success in their careers. For Angel, the connections she made and the skills she gained at NYU have been key in helping her thrive in the competitive world of hospitality finance.<br> <br> A world of possibilities is open to you when you make the leap and pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-management-and-systems.html" target="_blank">MS in Management and Analytics</a> at NYU SPS.</p>