<p><span class="p-body">At the intersection of finance and communication, Katie Bennett, an alum of the&nbsp;<a title="Master's in Professional Writing program" href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-professional-writing.html">MS in Professional Writing (MSPW) program</a>&nbsp;at NYU School of Professional Studies, has carved out a niche that allows her passion for writing to contribute to the dynamic needs of the financial industry. As the vice president of Marketing &amp; Communications at Moelis &amp; Company, Katie's role involves a broad spectrum of responsibilities, all aimed at elevating the firm's brand and strategically supporting client touchpoints.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">We couldn't wait to sit down with Katie and ask all of our burning questions about her NYU SPS experience and how it has translated into a robust career in the financial writing industry.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span class="p-body">&quot;In the banks I've worked in the last five or so years, I've essentially operated as a translator,&quot; Katie explains, shedding light on her crucial role in demystifying the complexity of financial services. She articulates the unique challenge of marketing in an industry where the products are not tangible goods but rather services that require a nuanced understanding and approach. Her campaigns focus on communicating the firm's branding, strengthening partnerships, and highlighting specific services, all tailored to resonate with the firm's sophisticated clientele.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">A longstanding love for the craft drove Katie's decision to pursue a career in professional writing. &quot;I've always been a strong writer and loved the craft ever since I can remember,&quot; she shares, recalling her undergraduate years at NYU. The MSPW program emerged as the perfect avenue to explore the possibilities of a full-time writing career, where she could gain deep industry knowledge and a practical understanding of digital communication.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Reflecting on her time in the MSPW program, Katie highlights the unexpected ways in which her coursework has influenced her career. &quot;What still surprises me about my grad program is that the classes I didn't expect to like or resonate with are the classes that I reference the most in my career in this field,&quot; she remarks. Courses on contract negotiation and finance were particularly impactful because they provided her with essential skills that are daily requisites in her current role.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span class="p-body">For those looking to forge a similar path, Katie emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and exploration. Transitioning from academia to finance might seem daunting, but Katie's experience illustrates the value of immersing oneself in diverse projects to gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry. &quot;Push yourself to always be learning and try new things,&quot; she advises, underscoring the growth and opportunities that come from stepping out of one's comfort zone.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Katie views NYU SPS as a launchpad for networking and skill-building. Although her decision to join the MSPW program wasn't initially aimed at bridging into finance, it organically led her to where she is today. &quot;Learning never ends, and after graduation, your career can be your next classroom,&quot; Katie reflects, advocating for a proactive approach to professional development and networking.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Katie's time at NYU SPS led her to the center of the financial industry. Where will your&nbsp;<a title="Master's in Professional Writing" href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-professional-writing.html">MS in Professional Writing</a>&nbsp;take you?</span></p>