<p><span class="p-body">For Yi Li, the path to success is a bridge between cultures, experiences, and a passion for learning. Originally from China, Li's academic and professional journey has led her from the bustling streets of her hometown to the financial heart of New York City. Today, as a graduate of the <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/homepage/academics/masters-degrees/ms-in-financial-planning.html">MS in Financial Planning</a> program at NYU SPS, Li is poised to make her mark on the financial planning industry, a field she believes holds vast opportunities for personal and professional growth.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Her interests, however, stretch far beyond numbers and financial models. An avid language learner, Li has spent time learning German, Russian, and Spanish, immersing herself in the different worldviews available through languages. &quot;Language connects me to other cultures, and I love the way it opens my mind to new ways of thinking,&quot; Li explains. In addition to her academic pursuits, she is also passionate about travel, finding inspiration in the distinct energies of cities across the globe. Reading and painting have become her creative outlets, helping her unwind after long hours of studying and working.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Choosing NYU SPS was both a strategic and personal decision for Li. Moving from China to the financial capital of the world, she was drawn to New York City's dynamism and the countless opportunities it offers for growth in finance and business. &quot;I was drawn to NYU…for its global reputation and prime location in New York City, the wealth of resources and the outstanding alumni network it offers,&quot; she recalls. But it was the School of Professional Studies' emphasis on real-world applications and its hands-on curriculum that truly captivated her. She wanted to be in a program where she could develop critical skills in financial analytics and strategic thinking and apply them in real-world settings.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Li was particularly attracted to financial planning for both the technical expertise and the human element of helping clients achieve financial goals. &quot;Its blend of strategic thinking and data-driven decision-making makes it a fascinating and essential area to explore,&quot; she says.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">From day one, Li was immersed in an inclusive environment that not only broadened her academic horizons but also allowed her to connect with people from all walks of life.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Li credits much of her success to the mentorship she received from the NYU faculty. Two professors, in particular—Professor Slabach and Professor Mitsudome—left a lasting impact on her academic experience. &quot;Their guidance not only provided me with practical skills in personal financial planning and analytics but also sparked my interest in research, which I continue to pursue today,&quot; Yi says.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Her hands-on learning experiences took her education to the next level. One of Li's proudest accomplishments was her <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/yili22/?profileId=ACoAAD7-rJgBBV9wIvPYOhu2fwGK-gSdsDhb0zA" target="_blank">capstone project</a>, a comprehensive analysis of a couple's financial situation that led to her being selected for the finals in a school-wide competition. The project challenged her to create a customized financial plan using MoneyGuide Pro, prioritizing the couple's objectives while balancing long-term financial goals. &quot;This experience taught me how to apply financial analytics in real-world scenarios and strengthened my ability to manage complex projects independently,&quot; she recalls. Her capstone gave her the chance to merge data-driven decision-making with personalized financial advice—a skill set that is essential in the fast-evolving finance industry.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">For Li, the real-world application of her education is priceless. It's one thing to learn theory in a classroom, but applying that knowledge to help someone achieve financial stability—there's nothing more fulfilling for her.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Her time at NYU SPS also taught her valuable lessons in resilience and adaptation. Moving from China to the United States posed its own set of challenges. Navigating a new language and cultural differences while excelling academically pushed Li outside of her comfort zone, but she embraced these obstacles as opportunities for growth. In the end, she was honored with the <a href="https://gsas.nyu.edu/admissions/financial-aid/graduate-school-prizes-and-awards.html" target="_blank">Outstanding Graduate Award</a> and the Leadership and Service Award, which made the challenges worth it.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">As she looks to the future, Li is excited about the possibilities ahead. Armed with her SIE and Series 66 certifications, she is actively pursuing opportunities in investment banking, wealth management, and asset management. Additionally, she plans to work toward earning the prestigious CFA designation, further refining her skills in financial analysis and portfolio management. &quot;I hope to take on leadership roles in the industry, using my skills to drive value for clients and contribute to the growth and innovation of the financial sector,&quot; Li explains.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Li's long-term goal is not only to succeed in the finance world but also to contribute meaningfully to the industry's evolution. Whether it's developing cutting-edge financial strategies or helping clients navigate complex financial landscapes, Li is determined to make an impact.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">For those just beginning their journey at NYU SPS, Li offers thoughtful advice. &quot;First focus on building a solid foundation in your coursework and mastering the essential concepts. Once you have a strong grasp of the fundamentals, make the most of the networking opportunities, attend events, and engage in hands-on projects.&quot; She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and connecting with professors, who she believes are critical resources for both academic and professional success.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Start on your path to impact when you pursue an <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/homepage/academics/masters-degrees/ms-in-financial-planning.html">MS in Financial Planning</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>