In September 2023, I had the opportunity to connect with a coworker through our company's internal coffee chat program. Although I hadn’t met him before, I noted the impressive designations he held: CFA, CAIA, PMP, and more. During our 45-minute conversation, I shared my aspiration to pursue the CAIA designation after obtaining my CFA charter. While chatting, there was a lot of hesitation within me; I was uncertain about whether pursuing CAIA was the right step.
As we talked, this co-worker recognized my potential and my drive for continuous learning. He emphasized that adding this designation to my credentials could significantly differentiate me in the industry…. and so, after a long conversation, I signed up for the program!
I signed up for the CAIA Level II exam in October 2023, which gave me five months of preparation. Fortunately, having completed the CFA program, I qualified for the CFA Stackable Credential Program, which allowed me to take advantage of the Level I exam waiver.
I approached my preparation for CAIA Level II similarly to my CFA exams. My strategy involved watching video content, identifying my weaknesses, practicing from various resources, and maintaining a regular revision schedule. Despite working full-time, I committed to daily study sessions and weekends of 3-6 hours per day. I genuinely enjoyed the learning process. While the material was challenging, especially on alternative investments, it was an experience I would happily repeat. I sat for the exam in March 2024 and was thrilled to receive the passing results in May 2024. Finding out that I passed the CAIA Level II exam was a beautiful moment, demonstrating that with clear goals, anything is achievable.
Going back in time, I first learned about the CAIA Association through a presentation at my previous company. From the start, I was intrigued by the program, especially because very few people in my network held this designation. As a woman in finance, I was determined to obtain the charter and expand my knowledge and expertise, but also to set me apart in an industry where representation is still growing.
Now that I have the charter, the most significant advantage of being a CAIA Member is the competitive edge it provides. With relatively few professionals holding this designation, I can offer unique insights into alternative investments, translating knowledge into actionable strategies in my day-to-day work. Indeed, within my role as an associate, I attend a lot of presentations given by investment funds to identify opportunities in alternative investments that can best help clients achieve their financial goals.
For anyone considering the CAIA designation, pursuing this certification is a serious commitment. It is an investment in yourself—financially and intellectually. It enriches your technical knowledge, enables you to make informed decisions for yourself and your clients, and facilitates your professional growth.
Earning the CAIA Charter has deepened my understanding of alternative investments. It has empowered me to break barriers, build credibility, and showcase my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
I genuinely love learning about finance, and studying for this program has been a rewarding journey.
About Urmi Hossain, CAIA, CFA:
Urmi Hossain is an associate in the wealth management sector and has been a CAIA Member since 2024. Her daily responsibilities include trade execution, client communication, performance reporting, data management, identifying investment opportunities, and staying informed about the economic landscape.
In her free time, Urmi passionately volunteers for organizations focused on gender equality and women’s empowerment, practices boxing, and enjoys reading. She is a strong advocate for self-investment and is an active member of Toastmasters. She believes every day is a learning opportunity and her favorite mantra is “Be comfortable with the uncomfortable.”