Second Degree to Quant

Hello All,

I posted this on S&T, and I hope you're all doing well. I’m a second-year staff accountant who graduated in 2022 with a Bachelor’s in Accounting from a lesser-known four year college. Since then, I’ve been gaining experience and have been with my current company in Manhattan, NY for two years. I’m now 24 years old.

Over time, I’ve realized that I don’t enjoy accounting as much anymore. I’ve discovered other areas of finance that excite me, particularly the more mathematical aspects. I also trade part-time and would love to transition into a field that involves this kind of work. However, I’m unsure how to break into such roles, especially since I don’t have significant experience in that space or any connections.

My academic journey has been challenging—I graduated with a low GPA during my first degree due to personal circumstances, which I take full responsibility for. There was a time when I didn’t even think I’d reach this point in my life, so I’m surprised at how far I’ve come.

Currently, I’ve been accepted into a Bachelor’s in Physics program at a mid-tier college, which I’m actively working towards completing. It is better than my previous college. I’m hopeful this will help me pivot toward my dream career, but I’m unsure about the best steps to take from here. Should I continue with this degree until I am finished in 3 years? Should I go to business school for a graduate degree? Should I apply for a MFE program? (Although I heard they do not help that much)

Do any of you have suggestions or advice on how I can break into the industry? I’d truly appreciate hearing your thoughts, if you have any to share.

Thank you!