Careers/pathways in Market Risk?

Hi, I'm currently an incoming freshman at my state school (non-target) and have been doing some research and wanted to learn more about the Risk mgmt field. I currently plan on doing a dual degree in finance and math/statistics, and while I would say have good qualitative/relational skills, I would consider myself to have a more quantitative skillset. Here are a few questions:

What are the qualifications to enter the field? I have seen a lot about how its common for people to enter the field with a post-grad degree, and I am wondering what it's like entering as an undergrad.

What should I focus on studying during undergrad?

Is the field math/programming heavy? I love doing math and I'm currently teaching myself how to code in Python, Java, R, VBA, etc. I was originally interested in pursuing a career in the IB area, but I would love to incorporate math into my career and use a more quantitative skillset.

Is the compensation/work-life balance worth it? Again with IB, the hours seem ridiculous to me and I'm wondering how people feel about the compensation compared to what you put in in risk.

What should I do as far as interning during undergrad? What kind of internships should I look for? I plan on trying to start as early as freshman/sophomore year.

How competitive is getting into MR compared to IB?

What's the difference between the work in Market Risk and other fields such as Credit Risk?

Thank you so much for taking the time to help me.

1 Comments
 

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