Quantitative
Can you give an example of a time when you had to make inferences and judgments based on quantitative data? What assumptions did you make? How confident were you in your analyses?
Can you give an example of a time when you had to manipulate information in quantitative form? How well were you able to use this format to convey your ideas to others?
In my finance course, I had to evaluate Toast Inc.’s financial performance by analyzing its SEC filings. This involved extracting data from the company’s balance sheets and income statements and inputting these numbers into Excel. I then created graphs to compare yearly performance metrics such as revenue, net income, and operating expenses. These visual aids were instrumental in clearly demonstrating the strengthening financial position of Toast Inc. during class presentations. By transforming raw data into a visual format, I was able to effectively convey complex financial information to my peers and professor, facilitating a deeper understanding of the company’s growth trends and financial health. This experience not only enhanced my data manipulation skills but also improved my ability to communicate quantitative information in a clear and impactful manner.
Qualitative
Can you give an example of a time when you had to make inferences and judgments based on qualitative data? What assumptions did you make? How confident were you in your analyses?
Can you give an example of a time when you had to manipulate information in qualitative form? How well were you able to use this format to convey your ideas to others?
In the same finance course, I had to evaluate Toast Inc.’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impact by analyzing its SEC filings. This involved reading and analyzing qualitative data related to the company’s greenhouse gas emissions, fundraising efforts, and media coverage. To convey this information effectively, I created tables summarizing Toast Inc.’s social activities, such as support programs for struggling restaurants, transitions to compostable tableware, and sustainable farming initiatives. These tables allowed my audience to quickly grasp the company’s major involvements and commitments. I made inferences based on the reported outcomes and trends in these areas, assuming that the initiatives highlighted in their reports were indicative of their broader ESG strategy. I was confident in my analysis as it was grounded in comprehensive and well-documented data, which provided a clear narrative of Toast Inc.’s efforts and impact.
