When Khine Soe San WAI first enrolled in ESSEC Asia-Pacific’s Master in Finance (MiF) program, she had the numbers-driven foundation every finance student needs: a strong academic record, a sharp analytical mind, and a clear goal of building a meaningful career in finance. But what she didn’t expect was how deeply her definition of “meaningful” would evolve over time.

Originally from Myanmar and now a Singapore Permanent Resident, Khine came to ESSEC with a quiet determination.

“I’ve always been drawn to the structure and logic of finance,” she shared in a recent conversation. “But I wanted to go beyond spreadsheets and valuations. I wanted to make a difference.”

The Turning Point: ADB Internship

Her turning point came during her summer internship at the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Bangkok, where she joined as an Investment Specialist. There, she worked on sustainable investment projects that blended traditional finance with social and environmental outcomes.

“It was the first time I saw how finance could be used as a tool for real-world impact,” she reflected. “And it clicked. This is what I want to do.”

Khine’s performance at ADB made an impression. Her supervisor described her as a fast learner who worked effectively in a multicultural environment, noting that she “presented and defended her final internship presentation with confidence and clarity, earning the respect of all attendees.”

How ESSEC Helped Shape Her Path

Back at ESSEC, Khine leaned into this new purpose. The MiF programme offered her the flexibility to explore this direction further through electives, mentoring, and real-world projects.

“What I appreciated most was how ESSEC didn’t just train us to crunch numbers,” she said. “It encouraged us to ask why the numbers matter.”

She credits the diverse classroom discussions, case studies, and professor feedback for sharpening not only her technical skills but also her ability to think critically and communicate with impact.

From Finance Student to Sustainability Consultant

Today, Khine is a Consultant at Environmental Resources Management (ERM), where she helps clients navigate the complex intersection of finance, sustainability, and risk.

“At ERM, I’m not just analyzing financial models,” she explained. “I’m helping companies make decisions that affect people, the planet, and profits.”

Advice to Future Students

Looking back, Khine encourages students to remain open to change.

“The case studies were rigorous, yes, but it was the group work, the diversity in the classroom, and the conversations with professors that shaped how I think and communicate,” she said.

Her advice: “Don’t be afraid to shift your focus. Sometimes your purpose reveals itself when you step outside your comfort zone.”

Khine’s story is a reminder that finance isn’t just about numbers. It’s about the impact behind them. And for students like her, ESSEC isn’t just a school. It’s a launchpad for purpose-driven careers that matter.