Where are they now? A Q&A with international alumnus Abdul Malik Khan
In our third “Where are they now?” post, we will hear from Abdul Malik Khan, an alumnus from Pakistan who completed his BA in Accounting at Chatham in 2023. Abdul also minored in Management and Data Science Analytics. His academic, professional, and personal experiences have enabled him to provide advice to prospective international students along with any students looking to pursue analytical career paths.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Abdul Malik Khan, and I’m currently an Investment Banking Analyst at Signum Growth Capital, where I work at the intersection of AI, gaming, and blockchain innovation. Alongside that, I help lead Burnt Squash LLC, a high-performance squash program that blends athletics and personal development for players of all ages.
I earned my Bachelor’s in Accounting with a Minor in Data Science and Management from Chatham University, where I also served as Student Government President and Squash Team Captain, and later completed my Master’s in Accounting with a concentration in Finance at Cornell University.
How have you progressed professionally and/or academically since graduating from Chatham?
Since graduating from Chatham, I have pursued opportunities that combine my analytical mindset with my passion for innovation and leadership. At Cornell, I deepened my expertise in corporate finance, valuation, and financial modeling while collaborating with mentors and peers who helped me see business from a global perspective. Professionally, I have transitioned into investment banking, where I now work with emerging companies and investors shaping the future of Web3, AI, and digital assets. Each experience, from financial modeling at Romero Capital to deal execution at Signum, has strengthened my ability to bridge finance, entrepreneurship, and technology.
What is a challenge you overcame to get to where you are now?
Coming to the United States as an international student from Pakistan was both rewarding and challenging. Balancing academics, athletics, and financial responsibilities taught me resilience and focus. During my time at Chatham, I faced personal hardships, including family loss and financial pressure, but those experiences shaped my character and determination. They taught me that success is built on perseverance, adaptability, and belief in yourself even during uncertain times.
Can you teach us something about Pakistan?
Pakistan is a country of remarkable warmth, hospitality, and culture. One of my favorite traditions is “chai time,” when family and friends gather in the evening to share tea and conversation. It is more than a daily ritual; it represents togetherness and connection. I also miss authentic Biryani, a spiced rice dish that is unique in every region of Pakistan. What I cherish most is the sense of community, generosity, and unity that defines home.
What advice do you have for prospective international students or scholars?
Dream big but stay grounded. Studying abroad is a powerful experience that will challenge and shape you in ways you cannot imagine. Take advantage of every opportunity to learn, meet people from different cultures, and step outside your comfort zone. Do not be afraid to ask for guidance or support; the community around you can make all the difference. Every small step you take builds your story, and the journey you begin here can open doors across the world.