From Data to Audit: Bridging Tech and Business at JPMorgan Chase

Tell us about your path from graduation to your current job. 

After graduating with my MS in Information Systems from the Smith School in December 2023, I joined JPMorgan Chase & Co. as an Internal Audit analyst. My journey involved leveraging my background in data analytics, machine learning, and business management. I completed an internship at JPMorgan Chase prior to graduation, which helped me secure a full-time role.

Why did you decide to get a business degree and why did you choose the Smith School? 

I pursued a business degree because I wanted to complement my technical skills with strong business acumen. I understood that to succeed in the field of data analytics and technology, it was important to grasp how businesses operate, make decisions, and solve problems at a strategic level. I got this inspiration when I was studying Computer Science during my undergrad and also opened my own business. The Smith School’s blend of technology-focused programs, paired with hands-on projects, made it the perfect choice. The program’s reputation for experiential learning and its robust network of industry connections convinced me that Smith would help propel my career forward.

How has your Smith education helped you with your professional career? Were there specific classes, experiential projects, team projects, or internships that have been especially helpful to you? 

Smith’s program gave me the opportunity to work on real-world problems through team projects with diverse students and internships. Courses like Data Mining, Business Process Analysis and Financial Information Systems were particularly influential. These classes not only honed my technical skills but also developed my ability to analyze business processes holistically. The opportunity to apply early to internships from the career service team's guidance was really beneficial. My Smith education was instrumental in shaping my critical thinking and problem-solving skills. I also worked with teams where collaboration and managing stakeholder expectations became essential, which directly prepared me for my current role.

What about your personal journey has led to your success?

A big part of my success stems from my adaptability and continuous learning. From leading tech events during my undergraduate days to managing complex projects in data science, I’ve always embraced challenges and sought to improve. My personal motivation to create a balance between technical expertise and business impact has been crucial. I also co-founded a business that donates profits to dog welfare, which taught me valuable lessons about leadership, customer engagement and the importance of social responsibility.

Is there something about your professional journey that people would find surprising? 

One surprising aspect might be how quickly I was able to integrate into the financial services industry despite coming from a tech-heavy background. Most people expect those in tech roles to stay within a specific domain, but my passion for business led me to pursue a role in internal audit. Being a data analyst in such a critical business function as internal audit requires both technical skills and a deep understanding of financial regulations and operational risk. It's an intersection many don’t expect when they think of data analytics.

What advice would you give to current students?

Network relentlessly, stay curious, and don’t shy away from challenges. The business world is evolving quickly, especially with the growing importance of data and technology, so it’s crucial to stay up to date with the latest trends. Take full advantage of internships and real-world projects to gain practical experience. Most importantly, learn how to communicate technical insights to a non-technical audience—it’s one of the most valuable skills in any business role.

One thing I would emphasize is the importance of soft skills. While technical expertise is essential, what has truly made a difference in my career is the ability to work cross-functionally, manage teams, and adapt quickly to new challenges. My time at the Smith School, along with my professional experiences, has shown me that communication, leadership and adaptability are just as critical to success as technical know-how.