Interviewer Asked me Why Finance over Math?? What am I supposed to say?
I had an interview at one of the large hedge funds yesterday for a SA position. My resume looks something like this:
- Education (Oxbridge/Imperial maths)
- Work experience (upcoming summer internship for research in machine learning, previous research internship with a published paper in math, sports working experience)
- Extracurricular/Leadership/Activities (school finance club)
I thought my resume had enough of a finance flavour to it? I thought I elaborated a lot about the finance club but the PM struck me with "why finance over research?" and I didn't prep for that question because it was supposed to be a technical interview not a behavioural one.
Should I switch the order of my resume so it's the finance club first and not research?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's how you can approach this situation:
Answering "Why Finance Over Math/Research?"
The key is to craft a narrative that logically connects your background in math and research to your passion for finance. Highlight transferable skills and explain why finance excites you more. For example:
Example response:
"While I deeply value my experience in research and the analytical rigor it taught me, I realized that I thrive in environments where I can apply these skills to dynamic, real-world challenges. Finance offers the perfect blend of intellectual stimulation and tangible impact, allowing me to leverage my quantitative background to make data-driven decisions. Additionally, I am excited by the opportunity to work with top-tier professionals and contribute to high-stakes investment strategies, which is something I find incredibly motivating."
Resume Adjustments
Switching the order of your resume to prioritize the finance club over research could help emphasize your interest in finance. Hedge funds often look for candidates who demonstrate a clear passion for the industry. By placing your finance-related experience and extracurriculars first, you can better align your resume with the role you're targeting.
Preparation for Behavioral Questions
Even in technical interviews, behavioral questions can pop up. It's crucial to prepare for questions like "Why finance?" or "Why this role?" to ensure you can articulate your motivations confidently. Use the WSO Hedge Fund Interview Course or similar resources to refine your answers and anticipate potential curveballs.
Remember, the interviewer is likely testing your commitment to finance and your ability to connect your background to the role. A well-thought-out answer can turn this into an opportunity to stand out.
Sources: The Asymmetric Risk Profile: Preparing for the Hedge Fund Interview, Investment Banking to a Hedge fund... Can You Make the Jump?, Interview Question: Why Finance? Sample Answers
No need to change your resume. Just have a thoughtful (and probably honest) reply. Seriously. Why do you want to work in finance? I mean yes money but surely there's more to it. The combining of discipines with a career that requires hard technical skills with interpersonal skills? Enjoying working on projects and seeing the real-world impact of your work? Interacting with founders and CEOs and learning about their business journeys? Etc. etc. (and yes these are flowery as reasons, but if you can't sell yourself a bit you aren't going to be able to sell companies)
You’re so retarded 😭
> Least autistic maths students
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