Freshman With a 1.5-Year Head Start
I am going into my freshman year as a finance major at a semi target school, and I just found out I have about a year and a half worth of credits (43) already completed due to the AP and college classes I took during my high school years. I expected to have about 20 credits already taken so this is a huge surprise and I am not really sure what to do. Any ideas/advice on what I can be doing with this head start? Double major? Graduate early?
With a 1.5-year head start, you have a unique opportunity to strategically plan your college experience. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some ideas to maximize your advantage:
1. Double Major or Add a Minor
2. Study Abroad
3. Graduate Early or Stay for Additional Opportunities
4. Internships and Networking
5. Develop Real Skills
6. Explore Diverse Interests
7. Plan for Graduate School
Ultimately, the best path depends on your career goals and personal interests. Whether you choose to graduate early, double major, or take advantage of extracurricular opportunities, make sure your decisions align with your long-term aspirations.
Sources: 5 Steps To Becoming A Rockstar Freshman (Undergrad Advice), Community College To PE, Fordham 3+2 with Columbia or Georgetown and 300k Debt, Graduating early - worth it or not?, Majoring in Wall Street?
Enjoy senior year - you might not need more than 4 classes per semester for that final year
Don’t double major
I’d just say do what makes the most sense for you based on your situation and goals. I was in a similar spot and chose to double major in econ and finance instead of graduating early. Wouldn't have done it if money was tight—my parents weren’t thrilled—but it helped me realize I’m way more into econ than finance
take 12 hours a semester and enjoy college.
Much can change, I'd just take a normal course load freshman yr. and re-evaluate. You may want to transfer or switch majors after you get into the courses.
Given you seem ambitious and are posting in the asset management forum. Two options you could do for senior yr. with a very light course load that will enhance your prospects and still allow you to enjoy senior yr..
1. Work an internship during the school yr. especially if you are in a metro
2. Take CFA level 1
Seconded on taking the CFA.
This is good advice. An extra internship and passing CFA Level 1 will be much more valuable than a double major.
CFA has zero value add for undergrads unless you’re recruiting for jr yr internships.
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