About
Sarah AlDeraiei is a BSc Finance student at Gulf University for Science & Technology (GUST), with an academic background in political science and research. Her interests lie at the intersection of finance, strategy, and applied analysis, with a particular focus on how quantitative models and structured thinking translate into real business decisions.
Her work reflects a strong foundation in research, problem structuring, and clear communication. This site serves as a curated academic and professional portfolio, documenting selected coursework, projects, and experience that demonstrate analytical rigour, discipline, and practical skill development.
She is currently focused on building core finance fundamentals while preparing for internship or trainee opportunities where research, analysis, and execution are valued.
Based in Kuwait.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Finance (CFA Track)
Gulf University for Science & Technology (GUST), Kuwait
In progress
Sarah is currently pursuing a BSc in Finance to formalise and deepen her quantitative and financial skill set. The decision to study finance represents a deliberate pivot toward capital allocation, portfolio analysis, and evidence-based decision-making. These areas complement her prior training in research, policy analysis, and institutional behaviour.
Her finance studies focus on building strong fundamentals in quantitative methods, financial modelling, and analytical reasoning. This technical foundation supports her long-term interest in strategy consulting and sovereign wealth fund portfolio management, where disciplined analysis, risk assessment, and structured decision frameworks are essential.
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Public Administration
Kuwait University (2022)
GPA: 3.27 / 4.00 (91.7%)
Sarah’s first degree provided rigorous training in research, critical analysis, and institutional decision-making. Through academic research, teaching assistance, and publication support, she developed a strong ability to analyse complex systems, synthesise large volumes of information, and communicate insights clearly.
This background is directly relevant to management consulting and sovereign wealth fund environments, where understanding governance structures, incentives, geopolitical context, and long-term policy objectives is critical. The combination of political economy insight and financial analysis positions her to evaluate not only financial returns, but also strategic alignment, risk, and institutional constraints.
Early-Stage Screening Survival (Consulting)
Pure Quant profiles — 30%
Strong analytical skills; weaker performance in problem structuring, written synthesis, and client narrative.
Pure Qual profiles — 20%
Strong conceptual reasoning; frequently screened out due to limited numerical confidence.
Quant + Qual profiles — 50%
Higher first-round survival due to balanced analytical, numerical, and communication skills; lower training risk and faster ramp-up.
Candidate Profiles in Consulting Pipelines
How This Relates to Sarah AlDeraiei
Sarah AlDeraiei represents the integrated quant + qual profile shown above, combining formal finance training with a prior degree in political science focused on political economy, governance, and structured analysis.
This dual background aligns with how management consulting firms assess candidates in early screening: numerical comfort, clear problem structuring, and strong written and verbal communication. By developing these skills in parallel rather than sequentially, Sarah enters consulting-style roles with lower screening risk and faster ramp-up potential.