CFA & GMAT for endowment / foundations
Hi everyone! I'm a recent college graduate and I've been giving a lot of thought to what I'd like to do in the long run. I'm super interested in the endowment / foundations space. Right now, I'm signed to start a job at a very big LP (on the direct investments side). I considered going straight for endowments right out of college, but one of my contacts at a big endowment said I should take the LP offer instead. After doing some research, I've seen that most people in higher levels in E/F have gotten their MBAs and also taken the CFA. I think I'd need to do both as well, especially because there aren't a lot of seats / turnover in the E/F space. I was wondering what you guys think my timeline should be? Should I take CFA or GMAT first?
Also, I've heard that it's hard to promote from analyst to associate at E/F. After doing 2 years at the LP, would I still be starting out as an analyst at an E/F?
Thanks!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about pursuing a career in endowments and foundations (E/F) and the role of CFA and GMAT in your journey:
Timeline for CFA and GMAT:
GMAT First:
CFA Next:
Career Path and Promotion:
Additional Tips:
By following this timeline and focusing on both the GMAT and CFA, you'll be well-prepared for a successful career in endowments and foundations. Good luck!
Sources: Ask mbaMission about Business School Admissions, Does having the CFA help for MBA admission?, Does the CFA® help you get into Business School?, Why Canadians get an MBA AND the CFA, WSO Hall of Fame: Business School and GMAT Forum
If you’re already in LP world, you don’t need an MBA. A CFA will take you further from a career advancement perspective and you don’t have to take the time out of the workforce. Career switchers need an MBA to get the job you already have. Since E&Fs don’t recruit from MBA programs (at least not intentionally the way banks and consulting firms do), you’re taking career risk by going to business school in order to go right back to the industry you have already been in.
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