About
Name: Daniel Cepeda
Nationality: Colombian
Programme: MFin 2025
Education: Bachelors in Engineering, Universidad de los Andes
Pre-MFin role: Finance & Data Analytics Manager, Bolt Storage, United States
Daniel is the recipient of the MFin Programme scholarship.
A brief overview of your previous work experience/career path up to this point
I started my professional journey with an industrial engineering degree from a top university in my home country. I then spent 2 years at a boutique investment bank in Colombia, working on M&A and project finance projects, while also supporting one of the partner’s family offices. After that, I transitioned to a US-based real estate private equity startup, where I support underwriting and acquisition efforts across a growing portfolio.
Why you decided to apply to Cambridge, and what attracted you to the MFin programme
I decided to apply to Cambridge because I was looking for a new professional and academic challenge in a highly rigorous environment. I was particularly attracted to the MFin programme’s strong postgraduate focus, which brings together experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds and to the University’s global reputation for academic excellence. I believe this combination offers a unique setting to deepen my technical skills, broaden my international perspective and learn from both faculty and peers with substantial real-world experience.
What you are looking forward to the most about your year in Cambridge
What I am most looking forward to in Cambridge is meeting people with different professional and cultural perspectives and learning alongside classmates who bring real experience into the classroom. I am also excited to work closely with the programme’s professors and to explore the wide range of electives, which will help me focus on the areas that interest me most and support my future career plans.
What you are hoping to achieve this year, and how it will contribute towards your post-MFin career
This year, I hope to learn as much as I can and build the skills, perspective, and professional network needed to move into a UK-based role after the MFin. By engaging with the programme’s courses, electives and people, I want to gain the tools and connections that will help me contribute meaningfully in my next role and continue growing in my career.
Your thoughts and feelings on being awarded an MFin scholarship
Being awarded an MFin scholarship is both an honour and a strong source of motivation for me. I am very grateful for the support and confidence the University has placed in me and I see it as an opportunity to make the most of the programme and contribute positively to the MFin community.