‘She is involved in a program in which females will hopefully change the financial services industry – and she truly believes that they can.’ I, as a woman pursuing a scholarship in finance, love the idea that maybe women will make the financial services industry a better place for everyone. When I read this coverage of Females and Finance, I have felt it most intensely. I want to change the industry! I want to change the world! I am going to go to school so that I will learn the ways! Being a woman in finance, I believe that diversity and inclusion is the answer to the many issues in financial services and I am dedicated to using my education to make an impact and empower women in my community. At the core of my vision is the notion that diversity is not only an advantage but a prerequisite for the development of any industry. Product and service quality, intellectual capital and consumer service are all enhanced by a broader range of experiences and perspectives. The theory of finance represents one of the youngest fields of advanced science. Despite its rapid growth, for far too long the financial services workforce has been shaped by men. In the past few years, numerous studies have focused on the possible reasons for the under-representation of women in this industry, and a growing body of literature is highlighting their relevance to the bottom line. As more women enter the labor force, the economies of all countries will be boosted by their contributions. I believe it is high time to encourage them to occupy more leadership roles and positions of greater influence in financial services. In this regard, my dream goes above and beyond mere optimism; I am determined to make it a reality, starting with my own career path. By being immersed in intensive academic preparation and advanced theoretical finance education, I aim to break through the proverbial glass ceiling, challenging those centuries-old stereotypes and biases that have caused tensions and hindered the growth of women’s participation in finance for too long. In the process, I will demonstrate with indisputable evidences drawn from state-of-the-art theory that women are not only fit for this industry but that they play a vital role in its development. I understand the importance of education in making a real difference, and how even learning about finance can be used for more than just advancing one’s personal wealth at the cost of others who are not able to exploit such opportunities. I plan to get involved with women financial literacy campaigns to help equip women with the knowhow on how to navigate the world of finance with confidence and autonomy. In terms of broader change, I also want to push for change in the financial services industry, including better policies and practices that promote equal pay and the representation of women at the leadership level, as well as corporate cultures with a clear focus on diversity and inclusion. I will do this by expanding my voice and platform outside of academia and outreach to further advance the conversation on what women in finance really care about. Also, talking about perseverance and innovation, mentoring the next generation of female financiers, and role modeling by being there and taking on the perception of possibility – these, too, will help other female finance leaders. So, at the risk of grandiose statements, my application to this scholarship represents my own investment – but also my commitment – to creating what is yet to be. I hope to achieve this via education, advocacy and mentorship.