Jesmer Wong, a data scientist based in Hong Kong, pursued EPAT with a passion for algo trading and computer-related roles. After pursuing an MBA in finance, he also delved into AI as a data scientist, to generate data-driven strategies.
Algorithmic trading caught his interest as a means to combine his skills for personal financial growth. His journey began with EPAT while balancing his professional and personal responsibilities.
Let's hear from Jesmer himself about his experience and challenges while pursuing algorithmic trading and how EPAT’s flexibility helped him overcome them.
Hello everyone. My name is Jesmer Wong. I am based in Hong Kong and have a background in electronics engineering. I pursued an MBA in finance about a decade ago to gain supervisory and managerial experience. My interest in algo trading stems from my hobby and passion for computer-related roles.
It all started with my current role as a data scientist. I aimed to utilize my skills to meet internal customer requests and generate data-driven strategies. The idea of algo trading came to me as I thought about using these skills for personal financial growth. I wanted to combine data science, AI, and machine learning to explore algo trading opportunities. I got referred to EPAT by a friend from a private equity firm, and that's how my journey in algo trading began.
As a working professional with responsibilities in my job and personal life, finding the balance was essential.
Managing EPAT with my work was challenging, as the curriculum was quite comprehensive. I joined the Jubilee batch, but I had to reschedule for another batch due to work commitments. However, EPAT's flexibility allowed me to adjust my schedule, and I am grateful for that. It required juggling my time, rescheduling meetings, and dedicating my free time to study, but it was worth it.
I would like to highlight some learning strategies that I followed that are beneficial:
- Capitalize on Familiar Topics: Identify modules or topics that align with your existing knowledge and experience. As an engineer, I focused on statistics and mathematical modules, which I had previously studied. This allowed me to progress faster and gain confidence in those areas.
- Embrace Supplementary Materials: While EPAT offers a comprehensive curriculum, it is essential to make use of the supplementary materials provided. For instance, the trading platform, coding support, and industry news are valuable resources that complement the core learning modules.
- Take Personal Notes: While the online materials are well-prepared, it's beneficial to take personal notes as you progress through the programme. This helps in summarizing key concepts and making it easier to review and reinforce your understanding later.
- Revisit Online Materials: Revisiting online materials from time to time can be advantageous, especially if you encounter complex concepts. This allows you to reinforce your understanding and clarify any doubts that may arise during your learning journey.
- Customize Learning Pace: Everyone has their learning pace and preferences. If you encounter challenges in certain areas, don't hesitate to take your time to fully grasp the concepts. You can choose to prioritize modules that resonate better with your background and interests.
- Master Python: As a fundamental programming language in algo trading, Python is crucial to learn. Invest time in familiarizing yourself with Python and coding. EPAT offers coding support and sample codes, which can be immensely helpful in enhancing your programming skills.
- Stay Updated with the Industry: Keep yourself informed about the latest trends and developments in the algo trading industry. EPAT provides industry news, and staying updated can help you align your skills with current best practices.
- Utilize the Placement Cell: If you are considering a career switch or looking for job placements in algo trading, make the most of EPAT's placement cell. It provides guidance and opportunities to explore potential career paths in the industry.
A combination of focusing on familiar topics, using supplementary materials, taking personal notes, revisiting materials, mastering Python, staying updated with the industry, and utilizing the placement cell can significantly enhance your learning experience with EPAT. Customizing your learning approach based on your background and interests will ultimately lead to a more fruitful and enjoyable journey in algo trading.
Your honest feedback on EPAT.
My honest feedback on EPAT is that it offers a comprehensive and well-structured programme for algo trading. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from introductory concepts to more advanced financial terms and tools. I appreciate the effort put into providing coding support and workbooks, which helps in practical application. The platform doesn't just talk about algo trading; it allows you to walk the talk by providing hands-on coding experience, which is essential for becoming proficient in this field.
One standout feature for me is the supplementary information and industry news provided by EPAT. It keeps learners updated with the latest trends and developments in the algo trading industry. This helps in understanding the current best practices and applying them effectively.
Overall, I am quite satisfied with EPAT's programme as it offers a well-rounded learning experience and support for aspiring algo traders.
Currently, my involvement in algo trading is more of a personal interest rather than a full-time pursuit. I continue to explore and learn in this field and look forward to applying my skills when the market conditions are better.
Your message to all the aspiring Algo Traders out there!
My advice is to embrace algo trading as a way to achieve work-life balance. Programming and coding are essential skills in this field, and Python is a great language to learn. I encourage everyone interested in algo trading to give it a try, as EPAT's resources and flexibility make it an excellent platform to start your journey.
Thank you, Jesmer, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. We take great joy in being a part of your Algo Trading journey with EPAT. We genuinely wish for your continuous growth and success as you endeavour to expand your knowledge and skill set. Congratulations on achieving your EPAT Certificate of Excellence!
If you too wish to equip yourself with lifelong skills which will always help you in upgrading your trading strategies and offer practical experience, and learn topics such as Statistics & Econometrics, Financial Computing & Technology, and Machine Learning, this algo trading course ensures that you are proficient in every skill required to excel in the world of trading. Enroll in EPAT now!
Disclaimer: In order to assist individuals who are considering pursuing a career in algorithmic and quantitative trading, this success story has been collated based on the personal experiences of a student or alumni from QuantInsti’s EPAT programme. Success stories are for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be used for investment purposes. The results achieved post-completion of the EPAT programme may not be uniform for all individuals.
