Emma's Journey | From Theology, to Equity Research Associate at Fidelity

Hello, I'm Emma Cunningham, I studied Theology at Pembroke College, Oxford, from 2012 to 2015. Despite my passion for Theology, I was always intrigued by the world of business and finance. After graduating, I applied for the Fidelity Graduate Program, where I started my career in June 2016. Nearly a decade later, I've had a fulfilling career in equity research, proving that a diverse educational background can lead to success in finance.

The UK education system offers a unique opportunity to pursue subjects that might not directly correlate with your future career path. I took advantage of this by studying Theology, a subject that captivated me academically. My interest in Theology was driven by a desire to understand the fundamental building blocks of various religions and their evolution over time.

However, I was also aware of the practical need to secure a job post-graduation. This led me to explore my interest in companies and businesses during the university holidays, where I engaged in various work experiences. Through these experiences, I discovered the intriguing world of equity research—a field that combines analytical skills with business insights.

Studying Theology equipped me with a multidisciplinary skill set, involving psychology, history, and philosophy. These skills have proven invaluable in my role as an equity analyst. The process of interpreting complex theological texts parallels the analytical skills required in finance. As an equity analyst, I distil large amounts of information to identify what's relevant, simplify complex data, and form well-founded views similar to synthesising theological concepts.

Joining the Fidelity Graduate Program marked the beginning of a steep learning curve. Despite having some prior work experience, my initial knowledge of finance was limited. Fidelity's comprehensive training program was instrumental in bridging this gap. It covered financial terminology, valuation basics, and accounting, among other essential topics.

The supportive environment at Fidelity, with its wealth of resources, helped me and other graduates develop the necessary skills to thrive. The culture at Fidelity encourages growth, with many senior members having progressed from graduate roles, showcasing the firm’s commitment to nurturing talent. If you are willing to put the work in, you will get there!

The role of an equity analyst is dynamic and varied, ensuring that no two days are the same. My daily activities range from building financial models for new companies to interviewing CEOs and visiting production facilities. Collaboration is key, whether it's discussing strategies with fund managers or debating stock ideas with colleagues. This autonomy allows me to decide how to best allocate my time, ensuring a fulfilling and intellectually stimulating work environment.

Before entering the finance sector, I had the misconception that it was a loud and boisterous environment. However, my experience at Fidelity revealed quite the opposite—it's a space similar to a library, with a calm and focused atmosphere. Also the role is far from solitary; teamwork and collaboration are integral, providing a supportive network that dismisses the notion of isolated finance roles.

For students from non-finance backgrounds considering a career in finance, gaining practical experience is vital. You can start by investing in stocks, even hypothetically, to understand market dynamics. Engage with company reports and financial podcasts to build your knowledge base. If you’re interested in the sector, dive in as much as possible and absorb the information around you. I would highly recommend podcasts such as ‘Invest like the best’, ‘Business Wars’ and ‘How I built this’ to name a few.

Also seek out employers who appreciate your unique academic background and can leverage it within their teams. The interview process is a two-way process.

Fidelity places a strong emphasis on diversity of thought, recognising its importance in making informed investment decisions. A range of perspectives allows for robust discussion and analysis, leading to better outcomes for clients. This diversity is pivotal in avoiding groupthink and fostering innovative solutions, ensuring that the firm remains at the forefront of the finance industry.

Fidelity's industry renowned training programme provides a solid foundation for graduates, regardless of their academic background. The firm prioritises hiring individuals with interesting minds and perspectives, rather than focusing solely on their university studies. This approach creates an inclusive environment where all graduates, whether they studied classics or finance, are given the tools and support needed to succeed.

Reflecting on my journey at Fidelity, some of the standout moments include engaging with CEOs and exploring companies behind the scenes. The level of responsibility and access afforded to graduates is unparalleled, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in our roles from the very beginning. The opportunities to contribute to client success and the collaborative culture make Fidelity an exceptional place to build a career.

A career in finance and equity research offers dynamic challenges and growth opportunities. Fidelity’s supportive environment and emphasis on diversity make it a compelling choice for non-finance students. Consider exploring this path, as you may find it as rewarding as I have.