Joshua Strydom

As a graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Investment Management from Stellenbosch University and a soon-to-be graduate with a Master’s degree in Financial Economics, I have developed a solid foundation in statistical analysis, mathematical modelling, and programming languages such as R, VBA and MATLAB.  During my academic journey, I have consistently achieved good results in quantitative courses, showcasing my ability to handle complex mathematical concepts and apply them to real-world scenarios.

Additionally, I have completed an exchange programme at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, where I had the opportunity to develop my knowledge of finance and showcase my analytical skills. The time spent at VU focused on quantitative subjects within the field of finance. This experience honed my ability to work with large datasets, conduct thorough research, and develop quantitative models to support decision-making processes. Moreover, I gained valuable experience in collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, effectively communicating complex ideas, and delivering results. 

I like to think that I thrive in fast-paced environments and possess a strong ability to make quick decisions under pressure. My relentless desire to achieve success will undoubtably be noticed through my willingness to work the long hours and put in the work. What sets me apart is my relentless pursuit of knowledge and my eagerness to contribute to a dynamic and reputable institution. 

I am confident that my passion for the financial markets, my strong quantitative background, and my drive to deliver exceptional results would align perfectly with the goals and requirements of any reputable organisation. 

I thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your company. I am available for an interview at your convenience, and I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you in person.

I do not currently have no relevant work experience. I instead chose to go overseas to further my studies. The time spent overseas was truly valuable in that I obtained substantive knowledge in the fields of derivatives, bank management, ALM & institutional investments and quantitative financial risk management. 

My masters in Financial Economics was focused mainly on financial econometrics. Statistics formed a large part of the syllabus. My coding ability (R, MATLAB, Stata, VBA) was enhanced. I achieved three (out of a possible 7) distinctions over the course of my degree.