William Benesh, B.A. 2011

2011 Major: Asian & Middle Eastern Studies and Economics

How has being an Asian & Middle Eastern Studies graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?

"In my role at BNP Paribas, I work in the Equity Capital Markets group which originates and executes equity transactions, including Initial Public Offerings, for corporate issuers. Over the years, I have worked on several cross-border transactions, including Chinese companies listing on the New York Stock Exchange and the NASDAQ, where my knowledge of the Chinese language helped me to engage and communicate with my clients."

What advice would you give students in Duke's Asian & Middle Eastern Studies programs? 

"I would definitely recommend taking advantage of study abroad programs when available! The Duke Study in China (DSIC) that I participated in during the summer of 2009 was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life."