Part-time PhD student Joëlle (stage name Joelle Charan) combines her music with a PhD in Finance. She splits her time between being a performing artist and writing her dissertation. Inspired by Queen's Brian May, who holds a PhD in astrophysics, Joëlle is writing her PhD thesis on the intersections between behavioral and sustainable finance, and finance and music.
Why did you choose to do a PhD?
"I want to inspire myself intellectually through deep and critical thinking. By enhancing and challenging existing knowledge in the world of finance, I hope to contribute to a healthier world, business, and society."
What similarities do you see between your two worlds?
"Like music, finance is intrinsically quantitative with roots in mathematics, yet both worlds are also highly driven by human emotions and decision. There are many similarities between music and math through shared concepts, such as intervals and patterns heard in melodies and rhythms. These qualities make both worlds endlessly exciting for me."
What do you think of the program so far?
"I think the programme is lots of fun and instructive! My supervisors provide empathetic guidance, the department is inspiring, and the modules teach me the latest, hands-on knowledge to make my dissertation a success."
