Unsure where to start...

Sophomore/semi-target/8 finance orgs/3.8 gpa/finance & accounting double major - I want to preface by stating that while most of the users on this site knew what they wanted to do coming out of the womb, I am not one of those people. I knew that I wanted to do something in finance, was always interested in the markets and what's going on in the world, joined a ton of clubs my freshman year with an interest in IB, ended up recruiting for SA2027, but unfortunately haven't received anything yet (I think I struck out, ppl at my school already all received offers). I decided to shift my focus and was fortunate enough to get into an exclusive ML org, where I've developed quite an interest in the quant side of things. Additionally, came into a bit of money via friends and family for daytrading (50k), which I've done quite well in (6.8% return in Jan, first month I started), and I realize that I absolutely love trading and would love to have a career in it. Filed an LLC and in the midst of other regulatory paperwork and stuff, so it's like official and I can throw it on my resume. Regardless, I'm just so lost rn and unsure where to start or even if it's too late to make the switch? My school doesn't have a lot of alumni within the HF space, so I'm already at a bit of a disadvantage. Thoughts? I thought about future summers and what I want to do, and currently have 4 accounting/finance (1 being on the finance side of an AI firm) internship offers at some local firms for summer 26, but originally intended to travel the entire summer (Solo backpack). Mainly intersted for SA2027 or FT. Should I cut the travel plans and focus on more experience? Am I too late? Literally hit me with anything and everything - just so lost.

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WSO Monkey Bot

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3mo

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a roadmap to help you navigate your situation and make the most of your opportunities:

1. Clarify Your Goals

It's great that you've discovered a passion for trading and quant finance. However, you need to decide if you want to fully commit to this path or keep IB as a backup. Both require different strategies, so clarity is key.

2. Leverage Your Current Strengths

Academics: A 3.8 GPA in finance and accounting is solid. Keep it up, as strong academics are crucial for competitive roles in trading, hedge funds, or quant finance.
Extracurriculars: Your involvement in 8 finance organizations and the exclusive ML org is impressive. Highlight leadership roles or significant contributions in these groups on your resume.
Day Trading Experience: Your 6.8% return in January and the LLC setup are excellent talking points. Frame this as evidence of your passion for markets, risk management skills, and entrepreneurial mindset.

3. Networking is Critical

Since your school lacks a strong alumni base in the HF/quant space, you'll need to network aggressively. Use LinkedIn, WSO forums, and cold emails to connect with professionals in trading, hedge funds, and quant roles.
Focus on building relationships with alumni or professionals who can provide insights, mentorship, or referrals. Be genuine and curious in your outreach.

4. Gain Relevant Experience

Summer 2026: While traveling is tempting, gaining relevant experience will better position you for SA2027 or FT roles. Consider the following:
- Accept one of the finance-related internships you’ve been offered, ideally the one at the AI firm, as it aligns with quant finance and trading.
- Use this summer to build technical skills (e.g., Python, R, SQL) and gain exposure to data analysis or algorithmic trading.
Future Internships: Target internships in sales & trading, prop trading, or hedge funds for Summer 2027. Apply broadly and early.

5. Develop Technical Skills

Quant trading roles often require strong programming and analytical skills. Start learning Python, SQL, and Excel VBA if you haven’t already. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or WSO courses can help.
Practice mental math, probability, and logic puzzles, as these are often tested in trading interviews.

6. Resume and Interview Prep

Tailor your resume to highlight your trading experience, technical skills, and leadership roles. Quantify your achievements (e.g., “Generated a 6.8% return in the first month of trading a $50k portfolio”).
Prepare for behavioral and technical interviews. For trading, focus on market knowledge, mental math, and brainteasers. For quant roles, expect coding and probability questions.

7. Is It Too Late?

Absolutely not. As a sophomore, you have plenty of time to pivot. Many successful traders and quants discovered their passion later in their academic careers. The key is to act decisively and strategically now.

8. Long-Term Strategy

If you’re serious about trading or quant finance, consider pursuing a Master’s in Financial Engineering (MFE) or a related field after undergrad. This can open doors to top-tier firms and provide a strong technical foundation.

9. Stay Flexible

While trading and quant finance are exciting, keep an open mind about other finance roles (e.g., S&T, risk management, or even IB). The skills you’re building are transferable, and the finance industry is vast.

Final Thoughts

You’re in a strong position with your GPA, extracurriculars, and trading experience. Focus on gaining relevant experience, building technical skills, and networking aggressively. It’s not too late to make the switch, but you’ll need to be proactive and strategic. Keep pushing forward—your passion and drive will set you apart!

Sources: Is it worth pursuing a career in trading in 2017?, An old man looking for advice, How to be a Millionaire Trader, Over 30, still no undergrad, finance career options?

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