Zetao Shao

When people ask me why I am interested in finance, I usually tell them it’s because I have seen firsthand how money decisions can shape people’s lives, for better or for worse. My family’s financial struggles, especially during my father’s illness and the pandemic, showed me how unpredictable life can be. These tough experiences made me want to understand risk, markets, and how to make smart decisions in uncertain times.

I didn’t start with a passion for economics. It grew on me while I worked as a sales associate. At first, I just wanted to be good at my job and help customers, but over time, I started noticing patterns, such as how changing a price or improving service could make a real difference in our sales. I found myself checking revenue numbers, trying to figure out why some days were better than others. That curiosity pushed me to learn more about business, accounting, and economics.

Outside of work, I got into investing, mostly managing a small stock portfolio for myself. It has been a great way to learn how to interpret economic news, follow trends, and stay disciplined when the markets get rocky. I am always looking at things like CPI reports, Fed announcements, and earnings calls, trying to connect the dots. I enjoy working with data, but even more, I like trying to understand what it all means in real life.

School has not always been easy, especially when I had to balance classes with caring for my dad. There were moments when I struggled, but I learned to adapt and keep going. Now, I am stronger for it, and I know how to handle pressure, manage my time, and work independently. All things that matter for a remote internship.

I am excited about the possibility of joining your team as a Commercial Credit Analyst intern. I want to take what I have learned and use it to help others make smarter financial decisions. I’m eager to learn from real professionals, face new challenges, and see what the world of credit analysis is all about. Thanks for considering me. I am ready to give it my best.

• Piano
• Swimming
• Solving complex problems