At the Intersection of AI and Finance

Hi, everyone! I’m Xuan Su and I was part of the Fall 2024 cohort of the Berkeley Global Access (BGA) Program. In June 2025, I received my bachelor’s degree in economics from Guangdong University of Technology in Guangzhou, China.

My undergraduate studies provided me with a rigorous foundation in economic theory and quantitative analysis. However, as I progressed, I became increasingly fascinated by how technology—specifically, AI—could redefine traditional financial models, which eventually led me to seek a more tech-centric academic experience at Berkeley.

I chose BGA because of Berkeley’s unparalleled reputation as a hub for innovation and its proximity to Silicon Valley. I wanted to immerse myself in an environment where the most talented group of innovators in the world is actively shaping the future of AI. My goal was not just to learn the theory, but to understand the cutting-edge perspectives and entrepreneurial mindset that drive the AI industry. The chance to bridge my financial background with Berkeley’s technical excellence was a prospect that truly excited me.

I chose BGA because of Berkeley’s unparalleled reputation as a hub for innovation and its proximity to Silicon Valley.

Deep Dives Into AI Translate to Master’s Program

During my time at Berkeley, I curated a curriculum that focused on the intersection of data science and business. I took:

• Introduction to Machine Learning and Data Analytics in order to build a solid technical foundation.
• AI and the Future of Business to understand the practical and strategic applications of AI in the corporate world.
• Multivariable Calculus to strengthen the mathematical rigor required for advanced financial modeling.
• A BGA seminar that provided valuable insights into the local innovation ecosystem.

Berkeley gave me the opportunity to choose from a lot of courses, even if they were not strictly within my primary major. Compared to the more rigid curriculum at Guangdong University of Technology, the academic environment at Berkeley felt much more interdisciplinary. The emphasis on practical application and the fast-paced nature of the semester system encouraged a proactive learning style that was quite different from the traditional lecture-based approach I was used to.

I also took part in graduate-school coaching, which was incredibly helpful in clarifying my career goals and refining my application strategy. The coaches provided feedback on my personal statement and helped me highlight how my unique background in economics from China, combined with my Berkeley experience, made me a strong candidate for top-tier master's programs.

While my undergraduate major was in economics, the classes at Berkeley allowed me to pivot toward “AI plus finance.”

BGA to Internship to Master’s Program

After I completed BGA, I did an internship at Tianfeng Securities, where I worked on analyzing market trends and supporting investment decisions. BGA prepared me for this opportunity by giving me a solid foundation in machine learning and data analysis.

The AI and the Future of Business course, in particular, allowed me to bring a fresh, tech-forward perspective to financial analysis, helping me bridge the gap between traditional economics and modern data-driven finance.

I am currently pursuing my M.S. in finance at Johns Hopkins University (JHU). My Berkeley courses were the bridge between my past studies and my current trajectory. While my undergraduate major was in economics, the classes at Berkeley allowed me to pivot toward “AI plus finance.”

BGA was a major turning point in being accepted into my master’s program. It not only strengthened my quantitative skills through courses like Multivariable Calculus, but the experience also gave me the global perspective and academic confidence needed to succeed in a rigorous program at JHU. The prestige and networking opportunities I had at Berkeley were instrumental in my successful application.

The machine learning and calculus courses provided the tools I now use in my master’s program. By integrating Berkeley's tech-forward approach with my financial background, I've been able to specialize in how data-driven algorithms and stablecoin technologies can optimize modern financial systems.

Once I complete my master’s program, I’ll most likely return to China where I plan to become a key contributor to the digital asset ecosystem, specifically within the stablecoin and Web3 infrastructure space. Given the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape and financial innovation in the Asia-Pacific region, I am particularly focused on opportunities in Hong Kong as a strategic hub.

I aim to leverage my background in finance from JHU and my technical insights from Berkeley to help bridge traditional finance with decentralized economies, driving the adoption of secure and scalable payment solutions across the APAC market.

The prestige and networking opportunities I had at Berkeley were instrumental in my successful application.

Beyond the Classroom

I loved exploring the diverse landscapes of the Bay Area. One of my favorite spots was the Berkeley Marina for the views and fresh air. I also spent a lot of time walking through the different neighborhoods and venues in San Francisco such as the Mission District and the Ferry Building in order to experience the local culture and food scene.

My top five things to do were: 

1. Exploring the libraries: Each library at Berkeley has its own character, and they were the perfect places for deep focus.
2. Attending events: I made sure to attend campus seminars and local tech meetups to stay connected with the Silicon Valley pulse.
3. Going to the gym: Staying active at the RSF was a great way to manage the academic workload.
4. Trying different food markets: Exploring the Berkeley Farmers’ Markets and local grocery stores was a highlight of my weekly routine.
5. Hiking to the Big C: The view of the entire Bay Area from the top is unbeatable and was a favorite ritual.

My best advice to all future BGA students is to step outside of your comfort zone. Don't just stick to the courses you know—explore the "AI plus finance" intersection or other emerging fields.

Engage with your professors and peers; the connections you make in Berkeley and Silicon Valley are just as valuable as the lessons in the classroom.

Most importantly, enjoy the journey!