Voices of Jelper Club Members — Jan Scherrer Bridging Quantitative Finance and a Passion for Japanese Culture

We recently caught up with Jan Scherrer, a master’s student in Quantitative Economics and Finance at the University of St. Gallen, who’s about to embark on a Financial Planning & Analysis internship at Fujifilm in Japan. In this interview, Jan walks us through his academic background, his love for Japan, and the role Jelper Club played in connecting him with his dream opportunity.

Jan Scherrer

Could you briefly introduce yourself?

Jan: Hi! I’m Jan Scherrer, originally from the St. Gallen area in Switzerland. I’ve always enjoyed the rigorous side of math and stats—so after an 18-month internship at a Swiss bank, I chose to pursue a master’s in Quantitative Economics and Finance. My current coursework focuses on econometrics, machine learning, and all things data-driven, with the goal of applying these skills to real-world financial challenges.

What sparked your interest in Japan?

Jan: It started early on. My father frequently traveled to East Asia, bringing back stories and souvenirs that exposed me to different cultures. Over time, I found myself drawn to Japanese pop culture—Nintendo games, anime, manga—and that curiosity led me to explore the language and the country’s art and architecture. Eventually, I completed a study-abroad semester at Keio University in Tokyo, which was extremely transformative. The energy of the city was thrilling, and I felt at home surprisingly fast, especially since I’d never lived in a big metropolis before.

How did you discover Jelper Club, and what motivated you to apply for an internship through it?

Jan: My university’s Asia Club organized an info session alongside Jelper Club and Fujifilm. That’s where I first heard about the Financial Planning & Analysis internship at Fujifilm. The moment I saw it, I knew it was the perfect blend of my passion for finance and my desire to work in Japan. I was also impressed by Fujifilm’s focus on challenge and growth, their group purpose, and their commitment to employee development—values that resonated deeply with me. Applying through Jelper Club was very straightforward, and the entire interview process felt welcoming and encouraging.

Any advice for fellow Jelper Club members aiming to work in Japan?

Jan:

1. Be Authentic: Show genuine interest not just in Japan, but also in the specific role and company.

2. Learn Some Japanese: Even a beginner-level effort demonstrates your respect for the culture and can give you an edge.

3. Seize Every Opportunity: Networking events, info sessions—sometimes the best leads come from places you least expect.

   
   

At Jelper Club, we’re committed to connecting ambitious students and graduates with unique opportunities across Japan. Whether you’re passionate about finance like Jan or exploring other fields, our platform can help you discover exclusive openings, access practical resources, and join a community of like-minded peers. For those looking to follow Jan’s path—or carve their own—register with Jelper Club today.

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(Interviewer/Editor: Jelper Club Editorial Team)