Returning to CATS Cambridge, alumnus Nurmuhammad (Nurik), reflects on his journey from an international student with limited English to building a career in investment management in London.
Originally from Kyrgyzstan, Nurik joined CATS Cambridge at just 14 years old, completing both his GCSEs and A Levels at the school. Now a graduate of Imperial College London, he is working as an Off-Cycle Analyst at Alquity Investment Management, focusing on emerging markets and supporting portfolio decision-making through in-depth financial analysis.
His journey is a powerful example of how ambition, resilience and the right support can shape future success.
A supportive environment to grow
Reflecting on his time at CATS Cambridge, Nurik highlights the importance of the school’s supportive and international environment. Moving to the UK with limited English was a significant challenge, but one he quickly overcame thanks to the encouragement of teachers, house parents and peers.
Rather than a single subject, it was this sense of community that defined his experience. Through academic guidance and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, Nurik developed the confidence and independence needed to succeed both academically and personally.
“The school didn’t just support my studies,” he explains. “It helped me build resilience, confidence and a global mindset.”
Like many CATS Cambridge students, Nurik also benefited from being part of a diverse international community, forming friendships that now span the world.
Finding direction and building ambition
While at school, Nurik explored a range of subjects before discovering his passion for finance, economics and long-term investing. This flexibility allowed him to shape his academic path with confidence, supported by teachers who encouraged him to think ahead and aim high.
This foundation led him to the University of Exeter, where he studied a finance-focused degree at a leading Russell Group university. During his time there, he combined academic study with practical experience, including managing a student investment fund and participating in finance and sports societies.
These opportunities helped him develop both technical knowledge and key professional skills, from teamwork to leadership.
Taking the next step at Imperial College London
Eager to further specialise, Nurik progressed to a Master’s degree at Imperial College London, one of the world’s leading universities, currently ranked 2nd in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
The programme provided a rigorous and highly technical environment, allowing him to deepen his understanding of investment management while gaining exposure to London’s global financial sector.
“The experience pushed me to refine my career goals and strengthen my technical skills,” he says. “It confirmed that investment management was the path I wanted to pursue.”
Building a career in investment management
Today, Nurik is applying these skills in his current role at Alquity Investment Management, where he focuses on emerging markets. His work includes analysing companies, building financial models, and contributing to macroeconomic insights for investors.
It is a role that reflects years of dedication and a clear long-term vision something he began developing during his time at CATS Cambridge.
Returning to where it all began
For Nurik, returning to CATS Cambridge is a meaningful experience.
“Coming back feels like coming home,” he shares. “This is where my journey in the UK started. It’s where I grew, faced challenges, and found my direction.”
Being back on campus reminds him of how far he has come from a student adjusting to a new country to a young professional building a career in the City.
Advice for current students
Nurik encourages current students to focus on long-term growth rather than short-term setbacks.
“Start early and build strong habits, but don’t worry if everything doesn’t go to plan,” he advises. “Success is not defined by one moment or one university it’s about consistency, determination and learning over time.”
A journey defined by growth
Nurik’s story reflects the core of the CATS Cambridge experience: a supportive environment, a global outlook, and the opportunity to grow both academically and personally.
From uncertainty to opportunity, his journey is a testament to what students can achieve with the right mindset and support.
