Zachariah Kuruvilla
(5EMS)
Company: D.E. Shaw
Reflecting on my placement journey with D.E. Shaw for the role of Financial Research Associate, I realize how much I have learned through the process. The aptitude test required accuracy and smart attempts, teaching me the importance of focus and risk management. The technical interview gave me the chance to highlight my strengths in Data Analysis and Statistics, areas in which I was confident in, while the HR interview helped me reflect on my overall personality and communication. This experience has not only boosted my confidence but also taught me the value of preparation, honesty, and self-awareness. The placement cell has played a vital role by bringing reputed companies with excellent roles and packages, providing us with opportunities at par with the best institutions. I feel truly grateful for this journey, which has been both enriching and rewarding.
Sagnik Sengupta
(5 BBAH A)
Company: D.E. Shaw
Reflecting on my placement journey with D.E. Shaw for the role of Financial Operations Associate, I realize how enriching and insightful the entire process has been. The multiple stages, including aptitude tests, group discussions, and interviews, gave me an opportunity to test my knowledge, analytical skills, and ability to stay composed under pressure. The aptitude test preparation, through mock Olympiads and logical reasoning puzzles, strengthened my problem-solving ability and time management skills. The group discussions on current industry topics further enhanced my ability to think critically, structure arguments, and engage constructively with diverse perspectives. The interviews, which were largely based on my resume and past internship experiences, helped me highlight my knowledge of industries I had worked in and reinforced the importance of being thorough with foundational concepts in economics and accounting. This journey has taught me valuable lessons—staying calm, taking one step at a time, and approaching challenges with confidence. More than anything, it emphasized the importance of preparation, clarity of thought, and awareness of industry trends. I am truly grateful to the Placement Department for their constant guidance and support throughout this process. Their efforts in creating opportunities with reputed firms like D.E. Shaw have enabled us to embark on a meaningful career journey, and I feel privileged to have been part of this experience.
Atashi Adhikari
5 BCOMH A
Company: D.E. Shaw
I underwent the placement process for the International Human Resource and Operations Project (IHOP) Associate role at D.E. Shaw, which was both enriching and rewarding as it was my first placement experience. The pre-placement talk helped me understand the company’s culture, vision, and values, which I later connected to during interviews. The aptitude test required strong logical reasoning and data interpretation, so I revised basic concepts and practiced mock papers, focusing on time management. The written assessment involved questions on self-introduction, positions of responsibility, and recalling the job description, where preparation proved useful. In the group discussion, I emphasized starting early, contributing meaningful points, and engaging with others, while preparation on general topics and current affairs helped me. The interviews focused heavily on my resume, skills, strengths, and situational problem-solving. Using the STAR method and real-life examples made my answers structured and credible. This journey taught me preparation, adaptability, and clear communication. I am truly grateful to Christ University and the Placement Cell for their exceptional support throughout the process.
Madhav Lahoti
(5BBAF)
Company: D.E. Shaw
My selection as a Financial Research Associate at D.E. Shaw was a pivotal milestone in my career. The placement process tested both aptitude and analytical skills, beginning with an aptitude test that focused on DILR topics such as coding-decoding, arrangements, and relationships, as well as quantitative concepts like percentages, averages, profit and loss, and mixtures. Practicing these basics beforehand proved essential for speed and accuracy. The interview process was extensive and included multiple rounds. Initial questions covered self-introduction, strengths, and general perspectives such as the role of AI in education. Technical rounds delved into finance and accountancy concepts like ratios, financial statements, and stock analysis, along with questions on data analytics tools such as Power BI, SQL, R, and Python. I was also asked case-based questions, such as designing a daily newsletter on Bengaluru startups, to test structured thinking. The final panel focused on understanding of the job role, weaknesses, research exposure, and practical data analysis during internships. This journey highlighted the importance of clarity in basics, consistent practice, and strong resume preparation. I am deeply grateful to Christ University and the Placement Cell for their unwavering support, guidance, and opportunities, which played a vital role in helping me secure this opportunity.
Dhruvi Bafna
Company: D.E. Shaw
I am thrilled to have joined D.E. Shaw in a Financial Research role, marking a key milestone in my professional journey. The selection process began with an aptitude test focused on Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation, followed by an asynchronous video round of three questions: “Tell me about yourself” (answered using the present–past–future structure), a situational question (handled via the STAR method), and a subject knowledge question (role-specific research proved crucial). The technical interview tested financial concepts such as income vs. cash flow statements, beta, negative working capital cycle, and included a guesstimate on pizza outlets in Bengaluru, with most questions drawn from my resume. The case study round involved analyzing financials, calculating ratios, defining COGS, assessing profitability, and drafting an investment summary. The personal interview required presenting the case and answering follow-up technical questions. This experience reinforced the importance of clarity in fundamentals, structured problem-solving, and meticulous resume preparation. I am immensely grateful to Christ University, especially the Placement Cell, whose guidance, training sessions, and constant support were instrumental in helping me secure this opportunity.
Radhey Agrawal
(5ECOH)
Company: Axxela Advisory
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Centre for Placements and Career Guidance, CHRIST (Deemed to Be University), Bengaluru, for their meticulous organization of placement activities and their continuous support. I am delighted to share that I have been placed with Axxela Advisory, a firm renowned for its operations in financial and commodities derivatives across global markets and for nurturing graduates into quick, analytical thinkers adept at handling competitive situations. The selection process was a single-day, rigorous experience that began with an aptitude test assessing stock market understanding, risk behaviour, speed mathematics, and logical reasoning. Out of 270 students, I was fortunate to advance to the next round, which involved a trading simulation where I finished second in my group. The final personal interview, lasting approximately 35 minutes, evaluated my CV, trading knowledge, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities. My preparation, speed in calculations, and thorough understanding of the company and role proved instrumental in my selection, making me one of three students finally chosen. This process reinforced the importance of preparation, focus, and practical skills. I am deeply thankful to the Placement Cell for their guidance and support, without which this achievement would not have been possible.
Moksha Agrawal
Company: D.E. Shaw
I am thrilled to share that I have been placed at D.E. Shaw, and I am deeply grateful to Christ University for its support throughout this journey. The aptitude test comprised 30 case-based questions on logical reasoning and quantitative skills, where I focused on accuracy over attempting all questions. Preparation through CAT and GMAT resources, speed math techniques, and logical reasoning exercises proved invaluable. The interview was centered on understanding who I am as a person, with questions on my background, finance fundamentals, and practical applications such as accounting, cash flow, derivatives, financial ratios, and case studies. I prepared extensively using resources like YouTube, blogs, and ChatGPT to master concepts, guesstimates, and company values, linking my answers to D.E. Shaw’s emphasis on collaboration and diversity. Resume preparation was crucial; I maintained a clean, concise one-page resume highlighting achievements, relevant projects, and extracurriculars. My internships, upskilling in tools like Alteryx and Tableau, and active involvement in personal development reinforced my profile. This process reinforced the importance of structured problem-solving, thorough preparation, and authentic self-presentation. Christ University’s comprehensive curriculum and supportive faculty were instrumental in equipping me with the skills and confidence to succeed in a competitive environment.
Maitrya Gupta
(5 EMS)
Company: D.E. Shaw
I am delighted to share that I have been placed at D.E. Shaw & Co. after completing my internship at Goldman Sachs, and I am deeply grateful to Christ University and the Placement Cell for their constant guidance, timely communication, and training in interview and communication skills. My unique combination of BSc. Economics, Mathematics, and Statistics allowed me to present myself at the intersection of quantitative and qualitative methods, a skillset valued by employers today. The selection process included an aptitude test focused on data interpretation and logical reasoning, a group discussion on whether developing countries should host international events, and interviews that assessed both technical and personal skills. The technical rounds tested my understanding of concepts such as hawkish and dovish stances of central banks, enterprise value, operating leverage, data types in Python, scientific libraries like NumPy and SciPy, and the structure of data frames. The interviews also emphasized problem-solving, clarity of thought, and practical applications. Beyond academics, leadership roles, certifications, research work, and competitions contributed greatly to my profile. This journey reinforced the importance of holistic preparation, strong fundamentals, and authenticity, and I remain sincerely thankful to Christ University for shaping my success.
Dhanush T
5th Semester, BBA
Company: D.E. Shaw
I am delighted to share my placement experience with D.E. Shaw & Co. for the role of Financial Research Associate and I am grateful to Christ University and the Placement Cell for their constant support and guidance. The process began with resume preparation, where I ensured my profile was concise, quantified achievements, and aligned with the job description by incorporating relevant keywords. The company’s pre-placement talk provided useful insights into their expectations, helping me prepare more effectively. The aptitude test, with 30 questions in 45 minutes focused on logical reasoning and data interpretation, required speed and accuracy. After clearing the cutoff, I faced the asynchronous video round with three questions covering self-introduction, situational problem-solving, and a finance-related current affairs topic. The personal interview tested both technical and conceptual knowledge across accounting, finance, economics, and market awareness, with questions ranging from balance sheets, ratio analysis, and DCF to economic indicators and their impact on markets. Beyond technical expertise, honesty, structured thinking, and clarity of communication were emphasized throughout the process. This placement journey reinforced the value of preparation, practical understanding, and confidence. The Placement Cell’s coordination and constant guidance were instrumental in helping me succeed.
Zachariah Kuruvilla
(5EMS)
Company: D.E. Shaw
Reflecting on my placement journey with D.E. Shaw for the role of Financial Research Associate, I realize how much I have learned through the process. The aptitude test required accuracy and smart attempts, teaching me the importance of focus and risk management. The technical interview gave me the chance to highlight my strengths in Data Analysis and Statistics, areas in which I was confident in, while the HR interview helped me reflect on my overall personality and communication. This experience has not only boosted my confidence but also taught me the value of preparation, honesty, and self-awareness. The placement cell has played a vital role by bringing reputed companies with excellent roles and packages, providing us with opportunities at par with the best institutions. I feel truly grateful for this journey, which has been both enriching and rewarding.
Sagnik Sengupta
(5 BBAH A)
Company: D.E. Shaw
Reflecting on my placement journey with D.E. Shaw for the role of Financial Operations Associate, I realize how enriching and insightful the entire process has been. The multiple stages, including aptitude tests, group discussions, and interviews, gave me an opportunity to test my knowledge, analytical skills, and ability to stay composed under pressure. The aptitude test preparation, through mock Olympiads and logical reasoning puzzles, strengthened my problem-solving ability and time management skills. The group discussions on current industry topics further enhanced my ability to think critically, structure arguments, and engage constructively with diverse perspectives. The interviews, which were largely based on my resume and past internship experiences, helped me highlight my knowledge of industries I had worked in and reinforced the importance of being thorough with foundational concepts in economics and accounting. This journey has taught me valuable lessons—staying calm, taking one step at a time, and approaching challenges with confidence. More than anything, it emphasized the importance of preparation, clarity of thought, and awareness of industry trends. I am truly grateful to the Placement Department for their constant guidance and support throughout this process. Their efforts in creating opportunities with reputed firms like D.E. Shaw have enabled us to embark on a meaningful career journey, and I feel privileged to have been part of this experience.
Atashi Adhikari
5 BCOMH A
Company: D.E. Shaw
I underwent the placement process for the International Human Resource and Operations Project (IHOP) Associate role at D.E. Shaw, which was both enriching and rewarding as it was my first placement experience. The pre-placement talk helped me understand the company’s culture, vision, and values, which I later connected to during interviews. The aptitude test required strong logical reasoning and data interpretation, so I revised basic concepts and practiced mock papers, focusing on time management. The written assessment involved questions on self-introduction, positions of responsibility, and recalling the job description, where preparation proved useful. In the group discussion, I emphasized starting early, contributing meaningful points, and engaging with others, while preparation on general topics and current affairs helped me. The interviews focused heavily on my resume, skills, strengths, and situational problem-solving. Using the STAR method and real-life examples made my answers structured and credible. This journey taught me preparation, adaptability, and clear communication. I am truly grateful to Christ University and the Placement Cell for their exceptional support throughout the process.
Madhav Lahoti
(5BBAF)
Company: D.E. Shaw
My selection as a Financial Research Associate at D.E. Shaw was a pivotal milestone in my career. The placement process tested both aptitude and analytical skills, beginning with an aptitude test that focused on DILR topics such as coding-decoding, arrangements, and relationships, as well as quantitative concepts like percentages, averages, profit and loss, and mixtures. Practicing these basics beforehand proved essential for speed and accuracy. The interview process was extensive and included multiple rounds. Initial questions covered self-introduction, strengths, and general perspectives such as the role of AI in education. Technical rounds delved into finance and accountancy concepts like ratios, financial statements, and stock analysis, along with questions on data analytics tools such as Power BI, SQL, R, and Python. I was also asked case-based questions, such as designing a daily newsletter on Bengaluru startups, to test structured thinking. The final panel focused on understanding of the job role, weaknesses, research exposure, and practical data analysis during internships. This journey highlighted the importance of clarity in basics, consistent practice, and strong resume preparation. I am deeply grateful to Christ University and the Placement Cell for their unwavering support, guidance, and opportunities, which played a vital role in helping me secure this opportunity.
Dhruvi Bafna
Company: D.E. Shaw
I am thrilled to have joined D.E. Shaw in a Financial Research role, marking a key milestone in my professional journey. The selection process began with an aptitude test focused on Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation, followed by an asynchronous video round of three questions: “Tell me about yourself” (answered using the present–past–future structure), a situational question (handled via the STAR method), and a subject knowledge question (role-specific research proved crucial). The technical interview tested financial concepts such as income vs. cash flow statements, beta, negative working capital cycle, and included a guesstimate on pizza outlets in Bengaluru, with most questions drawn from my resume. The case study round involved analyzing financials, calculating ratios, defining COGS, assessing profitability, and drafting an investment summary. The personal interview required presenting the case and answering follow-up technical questions. This experience reinforced the importance of clarity in fundamentals, structured problem-solving, and meticulous resume preparation. I am immensely grateful to Christ University, especially the Placement Cell, whose guidance, training sessions, and constant support were instrumental in helping me secure this opportunity.
Radhey Agrawal
(5ECOH)
Company: Axxela Advisory
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Centre for Placements and Career Guidance, CHRIST (Deemed to Be University), Bengaluru, for their meticulous organization of placement activities and their continuous support. I am delighted to share that I have been placed with Axxela Advisory, a firm renowned for its operations in financial and commodities derivatives across global markets and for nurturing graduates into quick, analytical thinkers adept at handling competitive situations. The selection process was a single-day, rigorous experience that began with an aptitude test assessing stock market understanding, risk behaviour, speed mathematics, and logical reasoning. Out of 270 students, I was fortunate to advance to the next round, which involved a trading simulation where I finished second in my group. The final personal interview, lasting approximately 35 minutes, evaluated my CV, trading knowledge, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities. My preparation, speed in calculations, and thorough understanding of the company and role proved instrumental in my selection, making me one of three students finally chosen. This process reinforced the importance of preparation, focus, and practical skills. I am deeply thankful to the Placement Cell for their guidance and support, without which this achievement would not have been possible.
Moksha Agrawal
Company: D.E. Shaw
I am thrilled to share that I have been placed at D.E. Shaw, and I am deeply grateful to Christ University for its support throughout this journey. The aptitude test comprised 30 case-based questions on logical reasoning and quantitative skills, where I focused on accuracy over attempting all questions. Preparation through CAT and GMAT resources, speed math techniques, and logical reasoning exercises proved invaluable. The interview was centered on understanding who I am as a person, with questions on my background, finance fundamentals, and practical applications such as accounting, cash flow, derivatives, financial ratios, and case studies. I prepared extensively using resources like YouTube, blogs, and ChatGPT to master concepts, guesstimates, and company values, linking my answers to D.E. Shaw’s emphasis on collaboration and diversity. Resume preparation was crucial; I maintained a clean, concise one-page resume highlighting achievements, relevant projects, and extracurriculars. My internships, upskilling in tools like Alteryx and Tableau, and active involvement in personal development reinforced my profile. This process reinforced the importance of structured problem-solving, thorough preparation, and authentic self-presentation. Christ University’s comprehensive curriculum and supportive faculty were instrumental in equipping me with the skills and confidence to succeed in a competitive environment.
Maitrya Gupta
(5 EMS)
Company: D.E. Shaw
I am delighted to share that I have been placed at D.E. Shaw & Co. after completing my internship at Goldman Sachs, and I am deeply grateful to Christ University and the Placement Cell for their constant guidance, timely communication, and training in interview and communication skills. My unique combination of BSc. Economics, Mathematics, and Statistics allowed me to present myself at the intersection of quantitative and qualitative methods, a skillset valued by employers today. The selection process included an aptitude test focused on data interpretation and logical reasoning, a group discussion on whether developing countries should host international events, and interviews that assessed both technical and personal skills. The technical rounds tested my understanding of concepts such as hawkish and dovish stances of central banks, enterprise value, operating leverage, data types in Python, scientific libraries like NumPy and SciPy, and the structure of data frames. The interviews also emphasized problem-solving, clarity of thought, and practical applications. Beyond academics, leadership roles, certifications, research work, and competitions contributed greatly to my profile. This journey reinforced the importance of holistic preparation, strong fundamentals, and authenticity, and I remain sincerely thankful to Christ University for shaping my success.
Dhanush T
5th Semester, BBA
Company: D.E. Shaw
I am delighted to share my placement experience with D.E. Shaw & Co. for the role of Financial Research Associate and I am grateful to Christ University and the Placement Cell for their constant support and guidance. The process began with resume preparation, where I ensured my profile was concise, quantified achievements, and aligned with the job description by incorporating relevant keywords. The company’s pre-placement talk provided useful insights into their expectations, helping me prepare more effectively. The aptitude test, with 30 questions in 45 minutes focused on logical reasoning and data interpretation, required speed and accuracy. After clearing the cutoff, I faced the asynchronous video round with three questions covering self-introduction, situational problem-solving, and a finance-related current affairs topic. The personal interview tested both technical and conceptual knowledge across accounting, finance, economics, and market awareness, with questions ranging from balance sheets, ratio analysis, and DCF to economic indicators and their impact on markets. Beyond technical expertise, honesty, structured thinking, and clarity of communication were emphasized throughout the process. This placement journey reinforced the value of preparation, practical understanding, and confidence. The Placement Cell’s coordination and constant guidance were instrumental in helping me succeed.
