Salima Remtulla ’00
Q & A
What advice would you give your high school self about the path that you've chosen?
Book smarts only get you so far. Relationship skills (“EQ”) and resilience are just as valuable – if not more so: “knowing stuff” isn’t much of a differentiator in a world where everyone has Google at their fingertips. Invest in building strong connections. Take risks, try new things, get to know your strengths, weaknesses, and limits.
Book smarts only get you so far. Relationship skills (“EQ”) and resilience are just as valuable – if not more so: “knowing stuff” isn’t much of a differentiator in a world where everyone has Google at their fingertips. Invest in building strong connections. Take risks, try new things, get to know your strengths, weaknesses, and limits.
What was the one thing/person that most influenced the career you have now?
Monster.com. My finance career began when I got a ping through Monster – 8 months after uploading my resume - from a firm I’d never heard of, in an industry I’d never contemplated. I only took the interview because they offered to pay for my trip to NYC! I already had a marketing job lined up at the time but changed plans to take the opportunity at D. E. Shaw because it was based in New York, where all my friends were headed after graduation. I realized it was a hedge fund (and then Googled what that meant) two weeks after I started. Opportunities often arise when you’re not chasing them. Live with your eyes open…and carpe diem!
Monster.com. My finance career began when I got a ping through Monster – 8 months after uploading my resume - from a firm I’d never heard of, in an industry I’d never contemplated. I only took the interview because they offered to pay for my trip to NYC! I already had a marketing job lined up at the time but changed plans to take the opportunity at D. E. Shaw because it was based in New York, where all my friends were headed after graduation. I realized it was a hedge fund (and then Googled what that meant) two weeks after I started. Opportunities often arise when you’re not chasing them. Live with your eyes open…and carpe diem!
What is the most valuable career advice you have received?
It is a lot easier for people to say ‘yes’ than it is for them to figure out what you need, if you actually want it, and how they can make it happen for you. Instead of waiting for opportunities and resources to be offered to you, ask – for help, mentorship, introductions, training, the moon. You’ll be surprised what you’ll get!
It is a lot easier for people to say ‘yes’ than it is for them to figure out what you need, if you actually want it, and how they can make it happen for you. Instead of waiting for opportunities and resources to be offered to you, ask – for help, mentorship, introductions, training, the moon. You’ll be surprised what you’ll get!
What is the most important thing that you learned at York House that has helped you to succeed in your career?
Look in the mirror: that’s your competition. I had a Grade 11 English teacher who refused to grade one of my papers until I could look her in the eye and tell her it was the best that I could do. Afterwards, she told me my first crack had been ‘good enough’ for a decent grade, but that it was obvious to her that I could do better, and that it was important for me to learn to take pride in my work. The assessment scale you face in any given scenario is irrelevant. Set your objectives and evaluate your performance based on your ability.
Look in the mirror: that’s your competition. I had a Grade 11 English teacher who refused to grade one of my papers until I could look her in the eye and tell her it was the best that I could do. Afterwards, she told me my first crack had been ‘good enough’ for a decent grade, but that it was obvious to her that I could do better, and that it was important for me to learn to take pride in my work. The assessment scale you face in any given scenario is irrelevant. Set your objectives and evaluate your performance based on your ability.
What’s your most vivid memory of your time at YHS?
Oddly enough, timed runs around Shaughnessy Block for PE. I still think about distance in Shaughnessy Block units - my commute to work is about 2x…and the Sun Run was just over a dozen laps!
Oddly enough, timed runs around Shaughnessy Block for PE. I still think about distance in Shaughnessy Block units - my commute to work is about 2x…and the Sun Run was just over a dozen laps!
Who was the most influential person at York House School for you and why?
Mr. Con, our music teacher at the time. He was passionate about his craft, had a burning drive for excellence, and made every rehearsal, performance, and music trip outrageously fun! His energy and charisma were infectious and he really cared about the students. He radiated positive energy and I admire the way he was able to give 110% so wholeheartedly. Mr. Con led by example in defining success not just in terms of outcomes, but also with consideration to the journey there.
Mr. Con, our music teacher at the time. He was passionate about his craft, had a burning drive for excellence, and made every rehearsal, performance, and music trip outrageously fun! His energy and charisma were infectious and he really cared about the students. He radiated positive energy and I admire the way he was able to give 110% so wholeheartedly. Mr. Con led by example in defining success not just in terms of outcomes, but also with consideration to the journey there.
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