João André Pinho
João holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science & Business Technology from IE University. Currently working as a Fixed Income Data Professional at Bloomberg, he has practical experience in Data Science and Data Engineering and has previously contributed to academia as a Teaching Assistant for Finance and Economics courses. His passion for machine learning and quantitative finance drives him to explore innovative solutions within capital markets.
"Feed curiosity, seek the right tools, build solutions."
Q&A WITH JOÃO
DEFINE YOUR EXPERIENCE IN THE MASTER IN COMPUTER SCIENCE & BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY IN ONE WORD.
Discovery.
IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU THINK THE MASTER IN COMPUTER SCIENCE & BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY HAS CHANGED YOUR LIFE PROFESSIONALLY AND PERSONALLY?
Professionally, it taught me the tools and methodology to thrive in a tech career. The ability to seek out knowledge - not just because you want to, but because you have to- is an essential skill in this sector. Learning quickly and bringing things into production effectively makes you a valuable asset to any team, and I believe the program fostered that mindset.
Personally, it reaffirmed a belief I’ve always held: not everyone is born with evident talent, but hard work and dedication can bring you closer to your optimal outcome. Being driven by curiosity and a desire to better serve others will lead you to great things.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY OF YOUR EXPERIENCE?
Without a doubt, the beauty behind the “ahh” and “wow” moments of realization. Understanding how things work, uncovering connections between fields, and watching projects you’ve poured sleepless nights into take shape and come to life – these are priceless memories that I’ll always cherish.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STUDY THIS PROGRAM AT IE?
As challenging as it is to cover the full extent of Computer Science topics in just one year, IE’s program stood out for its diverse and modern coursework. I believe that a university’s core function is to spark interest through engaging lectures. From there, students can build on this foundation, learning independently and applying new techniques to their projects. The Master in Computer Science & Business Technology effectively balanced these elements.
On top of that, Madrid is a great city to live in and study.
WHAT WERE SOME OF THE MAIN CHALLENGES THAT YOU ENCOUNTERED ON YOUR WAY? HOW DID YOUR MASTER PROGRAM AND IE HELP YOU THROUGH THESE CHALLENGES?
First, it helped me understand which areas I enjoyed the most and which I didn’t. Being more quantitatively focused, IE’s program motivated me to take a step into Data Science - an exciting path that, when combined with my previous background in Finance, has led me to an interesting role at the intersection of both fields.
Second, and most importantly it taught me to embrace challenges without fearing the 'mistake’. If initially the thought of coming from a non-tech background felt like a disadvantage, I quickly realized that the desire to learn and the spirit of co-creation can overcome any gap.
WHAT IS NETWORKING LIKE IN THE MASTER IN COMPUTER SCIENCE & BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY?
Beyond the company events and keynotes, IE gave me great friends I still turn to and exceptional professors I deeply respect and am inspired by. While networking often carries an artificial connotation these days, I’m grateful for the genuine connections I built. I've learned so much from the people I met there, and just as they can count on me, I know I can count on them. That’s the real value of networking.