Dihan Udugampola, a candidate from Sri Lanka, has achieved remarkable success in the prestigious CFA Programme. In his first attempt, Dihan passed all three levels of the CFA examinations, completing the program within just 1 year and 8 months. With a strong passion for capital markets and a desire to pursue a successful career in the investment field, Dihan chose the CFA Programme due to its gold standard reputation and comprehensive curriculum. Dihan attributes his success to meticulous preparation, a thirst for knowledge, and a daily commitment to studying and revising the curriculum.
He emphasizes the importance of setting both long-term and short-term goals, dedicating six months to each examination level. Dihan advises candidates not to skip any study modules and to thoroughly understand the entire curriculum, emphasising the need for genuine learning rather than an exam-oriented mindset. As a recipient of the CFA Access Scholarship, Dihan highlights the support offered by the CFA Institute through its scholarship programme. He also mentions the valuable resources and opportunities provided by the CFA Society Sri Lanka, including curriculum updates, exam preparation tips, subject masterclass sessions, and networking events.
Dihan, currently working as a Senior Analyst at Acuity Knowledge Partners, credits the CFA qualification for enhancing his job performance in fixed income analysis. He believes the comprehensive knowledge gained through the program enables him to better serve his foreign clients and contribute to high-quality discussions. Looking ahead, Dihan plans to pursue a Master of Finance at the University of Cambridge Judge Business School, starting in Fall 2023. He believes that his CFA credentials will further enhance his understanding and performance in the programme.
Following the completion of his Master’s degree, Dihan aspires to enter the investment banking industry. In conclusion, Dihan advises those considering the CFA programme to have a genuine interest in capital markets, emphasizing that it is a crucial step for excelling in the industry. The CFA Institute and the CFA Society Sri Lanka play pivotal roles in supporting candidates’ professional development and fostering a community of finance professionals in Sri Lanka.