In our Employee Spotlight series, we celebrate the remarkable professionals who drive our success. This edition highlights Nayara, a Junior Financial Engineer on our Modeling & Analytics team. Join us as we explore Nayara’s impactful role at Oakleaf and get a glimpse into her life beyond work.
Q: How long have you been with Oakleaf and what is your title?
A: I have been with the Oakleaf Group for 1 year and 8 months as a Junior Financial Engineer.
Q: Describe what your role entails. What does your typical day at work look like?
A: My role involves working with data to extract insights and create summary tables. I also automate ad hoc data aggregation processes using Python and Excel to optimize efficiency as well as help with document reviews for litigation support work. Each day is different, depending on the projects I’m involved in.
Q: Can you tell us about your professional background and what led you to Oakleaf?
A: I graduated from Gettysburg College with a degree in Mathematical Economics. My liberal arts education always encouraged me to apply quantitative and technical skills to solve real-world problems, a pursuit that led me to Oakleaf.
Q: What inspired you to join Oakleaf, and how has your journey been so far?
A: I was drawn to Oakleaf by the diversity of projects and the chance to develop a broad skill set. Being early in my career, this variety has been crucial in helping me identify my professional aspirations and shape my career goals.
Q: What has been the most challenging project you’ve worked on here, and how did you overcome those challenges?
A: The most challenging project was a series of litigation support cases last fall. The interdependencies across various tasks were complex, but we overcame these challenges through effective and timely team communication.
Q: What’s a significant learning experience you’ve had while working at Oakleaf?
A: Transitioning to a fully remote environment straight out of college was challenging. However, I quickly learned to balance my personal and professional life and to collaborate effectively with colleagues remotely.
Q: How do you collaborate with other team members, and what do you enjoy most about working with your team?
A: I regularly engage with other financial engineers, analysts, project leads, and managers through check-ins and working sessions. The open, supportive atmosphere makes it easy to seek help whenever needed, which I greatly appreciate.
Q: What are your future career goals, and how is Oakleaf supporting you in achieving them?
A: I envision continuing to work closely with data and utilizing technical skills to solve business problems. Oakleaf supports my growth by providing access to learning platforms such as LinkedIn Learning and Udemy.
Q: How do you maintain a work-life balance, and what activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I am a big foodie so outside of work I really enjoy trying out new recipes. I also prioritize getting enough exercise every day which helps me stay productive.
Q: What aspect of our company culture do you appreciate the most?
A: I appreciate the openness and willingness of everyone to help each other, creating a collaborative and supportive environment.
Q: What’s something most colleagues don’t know about you?
A: I have Trypophobia which is a fear of patterns with closely packed holes, like honeycombs or sponges.
Q: If you weren’t working in this industry, what alternative career path might you have pursued?
A: I would probably still been in school getting a PhD.
Q: What three words would you use to describe Oakleaf?
A: Innovative, Growth-Oriented, and Supportive.
Q: Where is your hometown?
A: Kathmandu, Nepal
Q: What’s the most adventurous or exciting thing you’ve ever done?
A: Leaving my home/family and moving to the US when I was 18 for undergrad was the most adventurous thing I have done.
Q: Can you share a memorable experience from your travels or a special hobby?
A: Living with a Spanish host family who spoke little English while I knew no Spanish during my study abroad semester was unforgettable. Thank goodness for Google Translate!
Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list that you’re most excited about?
A: Growing up in Nepal, I’ve always wanted to see Mount Everest up close by trekking to the Everest Base Camp.
Stay tuned for more spotlights on the people who make Oakleaf a great place to work!
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