2. Competitive experience: In 2024, I participated in the Stevens Trading Competition, which brought together over 700 students nationwide. I placed 88th, an achievement that tested my ability to apply investing concepts under pressure while managing risk and time constraints. More than just rankings, the experience taught me adaptability and discipline in fast-paced, high-stakes financial environments.

3. Real - world application: Beyond theory and simulation, I manage a personal Fidelity account where I have earned thousands of dollars through disciplined investing. This hands-on experience has been my greatest teacher — reinforcing lessons in patience, diversification, and the emotional challenges of investing. Watching my portfolio grow has been both rewarding and humbling, proving that investing is not only about numbers but about mindset.
4. Personal growth: Together, these experiences reflect how investing has shaped me: as a researcher, competitor, and active market participant. I’ve learned to balance theory with practice, caution with ambition, and long-term vision with short-term decisions. This journey continues to inspire me to pursue deeper knowledge in finance and economics.