Econ with math minor (stats science)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, minoring in statistics alongside an economics major can be a strong move, especially if you're targeting boutique investment banking or other finance-related internships. Here's why:

1. Relevance of Stats Courses: Courses like regression analysis, machine learning, and time series analysis are highly applicable in finance. These skills are particularly valued in roles that involve data analysis, financial modeling, and quantitative decision-making. They can also set you apart from other candidates with more traditional finance backgrounds.

2. Marketability: A stats minor signals to employers that you have quantitative and analytical skills, which are increasingly in demand across finance roles. This can be especially helpful if you're competing for internships with limited prior experience.

3. Complementary Skills: Combining economics with statistics provides a well-rounded skill set. Economics gives you a strong foundation in understanding markets and financial systems, while statistics equips you with the tools to analyze and interpret data effectively.

4. Boutique IB and Beyond: While boutique investment banks may not always require advanced quantitative skills, having a stats background can still be a differentiator. It shows you're prepared to handle data-heavy tasks and can adapt to roles that may involve more technical work.

5. Internship Prep: Since you're behind on experience, focus on leveraging your coursework to build a strong narrative for interviews. Highlight how your stats courses are directly applicable to the tasks you'd perform in an internship, such as analyzing financial data or building models.

Actionable Steps:

• Network Aggressively: Start reaching out to alumni, professionals, and boutique firms now. Networking can help you uncover opportunities that aren't widely advertised.
• Gain Practical Experience: Use platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning to complete finance-related projects or certifications (e.g., financial modeling, Excel, or Python for finance).
• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize your quantitative coursework and any relevant projects or skills. Even if you lack formal experience, showcasing your academic preparation can make a difference.
• Prepare for Interviews: Focus on both technical and behavioral questions. For technical prep, consider WSO's IB Prep Course or similar resources.

In summary, pursuing a stats minor is definitely worth it given your goals and current situation. It will enhance your profile and provide you with valuable skills that can help you stand out in a competitive field.

Sources: Economic Consulting Q&A - Past experience at major firms, Why you should consider Notre Dame for undergrad, Q&A: Quantitative Analyst - Machine Learning, Analytics, & Quantitative Research/Investing, University of Chicago Economics Major, RE: Prop/Quant Trading - Why is it not as big a target as Investment Banking?