At Berkeley Haas, we believe that leadership is more than a concept you learn in a textbook—it's something actively lived and practiced. In our Master of Financial Engineering (MFE) program, this philosophy comes to life through the Financial Engineering Student Association (FESA). Each year, our MFE students don't just join a cohort; they step up and take the lead, shaping their own experience and that of their peers.
Led by MFE26 president Sami Sellami, the FESA board is the driving force behind student life, with committees dedicated to crucial areas like Careers, Social, Academics, Finance, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Giving our students the chance to make a real impact, from the moment they arrive.
Navigating Success, Together
The journey through the MFE program is intense, especially when it comes to recruiting. The Careers Committee is your ally through this high-stakes process. "We focus on ensuring our cohort has the resources, guidance, and opportunities needed to navigate the internship and full-time recruiting process," says Adarsh Kumar, VP Careers. This year, the committee partnered with the MFE Career Services team, expanded advising hours, and hosted mock interviews to keep students confident and prepared.
Of course, it's not all about the grind. The Social Committee makes sure there’s time for connection and community. "We organize non-academic activities like hiking, movie nights, and cultural nights to bring the MFE program together," says Dhruv Joshi, VP Socials. These events are where lifelong bonds are formed, proving that the MFE experience is as much about the people you meet as it is about the problem sets you conquer.
The Finance Committee adds another layer of student empowerment. "Our mandate is twofold: support social and academic endeavors with appropriate funding, and manage and grow the MFE fund," explains Harsh Dhawan, VP Finance. By involving students in the investment process, they not only funded every social event this year but also built a sense of collective ownership within the program.
Belonging is at the heart of the DEI Committee. Jile Xin, VP DEI, shares that their focus is on "celebrating diversity and creating an inclusive environment where every student feels welcomed and valued." Their work this year included organizing a Rainbow Ice-cream Day for Pride Month, creating a collaborative MFE Music Board with songs from around the world, and co-hosting a hiking trip.
And finally, the Academic Committee ensures that the student voice is heard. They act as a vital link between the cohort and professors, advocating for student needs and providing feedback to ensure the academic experience is both challenging and responsive.
Confidence Without Attitude
Ultimately, the FESA VPs and committees embody the core spirit of Berkeley Haas: "Confidence Without Attitude." Students don't just lead—they invest in one another, building a culture where success is shared and measured by the strength of the community.
Want to learn more about what it’s like to be a student at Berkeley Haas? Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for a closer look!
