Alumni Profile : Nikki Miao
Alumni Profile: Nikki Miao was at HLC from 2013 to 2016 and was in Nightingale. She was Head of Nightingale and Deputy Head Girl.
Nikki is an Investment Associate at Appian Capital Advisory, a private equity firm specialising in mining and energy transition-related investments.
Nikki Miao – Alumni Profile
Please tell us more about your time at HLC – What was the best thing about the school experience? What are your fondest memories?
HLC provided a range of activities that helped me grow into a well-rounded individual while supporting my passions.
My fondest memories include organising and rehearsing for House competition events—such as music, drama, and Sports Day—as well as gathering with friends in the basement of Clarence Boarding House after dinner!
What did you do straight after you left school?
I studied Physics and Philosophy at the University of Oxford.
Tell us about the journey from there to what you do now?
After I graduated from Oxford, I worked as an Investment Banker at BAML in London where I focused on Power & Utilities, Renewables, Oil & Gas and Mining sectors. I then joined Appian about 2 years ago.
Tell us more about your experience of what you do now?
My current role is dynamic and involves the front-to-end of investments, from sourcing for investment opportunities, execution of transactions, financial modelling, legal and commercial negotiations, commodity price and market research and forecasts, as well as portfolio management and exit strategies.
Where around the World have you studied and worked?
During university, I attended a summer research programme at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing where I spent time studying Schwarzschild and Kerr geometries of Spacetime.
What advice would you give to someone looking to take part in/join what you do now?
Be passionate about what you do and keep asking questions—that’s how you learn!
What’s on the wish list for your future development?
In additional to my professional career development, I would like to finish a PADI scuba diving course!
When I’m back home in Beijing for holidays, I attend friends’ recording studios and work on songs that I’ve written. Last year I released a 3-song EP from those sessions.
Are you still in touch with girls that you went to school with?
Yes
And in conclusion, how did your experience at HLC equip you for the successful role you are now in?
HLC provided a supportive environment that helped me become a determined and passionate individual, enabling me to pursue what I do now.
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