Networking Lunch at TD Bank

January 17, 2020

Ryerson math students network with quants at TD

For the second year in a row, students in Ryerson University’s Financial Mathematics Research Group got the rare chance to mingle in person with financial professionals from TD Bank. This year’s invitation-only, networking lunch happened on January 17 at TD Tower in the heart of Toronto’s financial district – a short walk from campus.

Led by professor, Dr. Alexey Rubtsov, eight Master’s and PhD students met with Ray Westcott, Vice President, Model Development at TD and seven different teams in his department. Master’s student Kenji Hewitt describes the vibe: “The atmosphere was very friendly, which made it really easy to ask questions and learn about what the professionals do in their roles. Most importantly, it was an opportunity to observe how the professionals take mathematical theory from the classroom to the boardroom.”

Real-world perspectives: From mathematical theory to industry application

The event opened with a meet-and-greet over lunch. Westcott then addressed the group about the risk management at TD. Next, Dr. Rubtsov provided the professionals with updates on the university’s Mathematics Department and its programs.

Excitement escalated when students listened to hiring managers from the seven teams. Student gained insight not only on what the various teams do in financial math modeling, but insider tips, including:

Common interview questions and required skills
Latest programming languages in financial mathematics
Relevant domain expertise, such as pure math and machine learning
Importance of communication skills, especially in presenting to management

Students get inside scoop on financial modeling at TD. Master’s student, Fahimeh Saei Manesh, comments on the benefit of attending: "It was a great networking experience. I learned a lot more about possible opportunities for applied math students in the banking industry, and about the skills and knowledge required to work as a quant in a Canadian major bank."

Professor Rubtsov concludes: “The event went great both years. Ray did a great job organizing the event and delivering content that is really important for our students. It's already a big thing that our students see people who are actually applying theory, and what kind of mentality and communication skills are needed to succeed.”

Shortly after last year’s event, four students were invited for interviews. Two alumni of Ryerson’s Mathematics program are currently working in Model Development at TD.

The Department of Mathematics extends special thanks to Ray Westcott and the Risk Management teams at TD for generously hosting this year’s event.