In our Alumni Spotlight series, we explore the meaningful experiences of Master of Business and Science (MBS) graduates and how the degree has impacted their professional journeys. This month, we’re excited to feature Trevor Johnson, a standout 2020 graduate with a concentration in Analytics: Discovery Informatics & Data Sciences.
After completing his MBS degree, Johnson started at Moody’s as an Associate Analyst, where he focused on backend work and learned the intricacies of the credit rating process. After 2 years, he was promoted to Senior Ratings Associate and currently serves as Associate Lead Analyst, playing a crucial role in driving rating decisions.
Why did you choose the MBS degree?
As an undergraduate Economics major at Rutgers, Johnson first heard about the Professional Science Master’s program from Executive Director Dr. Deborah Silver when she visited a class of his (Energy Economics) to speak. He was intrigued by the accelerated timeline of our “4+1” program, which allows students to apply undergraduate academic credit towards their MBS degree, and pursued the degree through this fast-track option.
Our concentration in Analytics: Discovery Informatics & Data Sciences stood out to Johnson. He recognized that data analytics skills are crucial in today's increasingly technical job market, regardless of the industry. Johnson wanted to continue his education and saw the value in acquiring technical skills.
What did you find to be the most valuable aspect of the Professional Science Master's program?
Beyond our program’s rigorous education, Johnson valued the networking opportunities and connections he made. The program's diverse mix of students, ranging from undergraduates to working professionals, allowed him to interact with individuals with varied experiences. Many of his internships resulted from connections made during his time as an MBS student.
Our Externship Exchange Program was particularly valuable to him.
"It was a really unique way to give us some experience," Johnson noted.
He participated in the Wall Street Bootcamp. Ben Nelson, Senior Vice President & Global Credit Officer for ESG at Moody’s, served as his advisor. Though Johnson was aware of Moody’s as a company, working with Nelson provided him with a deeper understanding of Moody’s operations and the process of creating credit ratings. Johnson’s excellent performance on the project led to a position at Moody’s shortly after his graduation.
“Trevor Johnson was an exceptional extern during his time with the Wall Street Bootcamp and, once he joined Moody’s after graduating from the MBS Program, he quickly established a strong track record in the analytically-demanding Structured Finance Group,” said Nelson.
In spring 2024, Johnson provided feedback on a new group of extern presentations.
"I'm one of the people asking the students questions," he reflected, "and I remember being on the other side as a student, trying hard to answer those questions well and make a good impression. So it's kind of a full-circle moment."
What sets your current position apart from your previous one?
Recently, Johnson started a new role as an Associate Lead Analyst at Moody’s. Initially working as an associate analyst paired with lead analysts, he gradually took on more responsibility. Now, he works with associate analysts from the other side and looks to make rating change decisions with the team.
This shift has brought him greater visibility and responsibility within the organization, moving him from a background role to a prominent position in shaping outcomes and strategies.
How has the MBS degree benefited you post-graduation?
Through MBS courses, Johnson became comfortable with programming. Computer programming is rapidly becoming a need-to-know skill in more professions. Having already learned programming in a formal setting, Johnson can easily relearn and apply these skills. His familiarity with Structured Query Language (SQL), the top language in his field, has been particularly beneficial.
"I still have my materials, so I can easily go and refresh. It's much easier to refresh something than to learn from scratch under pressure," he remarked.
Several classes were especially helpful, including Database and Data Warehousing, Advanced Analytics & Practicum, and Business Intelligence with Visual Analytics. Our project-based classes provided an excellent way to integrate and apply the skills learned throughout the semester.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Johnson recommends engaging in as many projects as possible. Across industries, projects that mirror potential work are invaluable. He also encourages students to take project-based classes and participate in Rutgers case competitions.
Additionally, pursuing personal projects can help build skills and confidence.
"Doing any kind of real application in a project helps you understand the material in a different way," Johnson emphasized.
He also stresses the importance of seizing every opportunity presented. The MBS degree offers numerous resources and experiences, so making the most of them is essential. While student life may be busy, any work experience acquired during studies will prove beneficial in the future.
"The biggest takeaway I have for students is to just go after everything…Any work you can get to prepare before you enter the workforce is something that you'll realize really benefited you down the line," Johnson concluded.
Check out stories of other MBS Alumni:
- Jhanani Ramesh, MBS'19, Data Analytics
- Tatiana Luts, MBS’23, Personal Care Science
- Suleiman Ali Shakir, MBS’19, User Experience Design
- Laura Gordon, MBS’22, User Experience Design