17yo, Egypt, Stuck between tech and finance.

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to consider:

1. Visa and Sponsorship Challenges:

   • Finance roles, especially in IB, PE, HF, and VC, are notoriously difficult for international candidates due to limited visa sponsorship. Many firms prioritize local candidates or those who don't require sponsorship, making it a significant hurdle for non-US citizens.
   • Tech, on the other hand, is generally more open to sponsoring visas, especially for roles requiring specialized skills like AI engineering. Companies like FAANG and top-tier startups often sponsor H-1B visas for skilled workers.

2. Career Path and Exit Opportunities:

   • In finance, breaking into IB as an international student is already challenging, and the transition to PE/HF can be even tougher without sponsorship. The "brick wall" you're worried about is a valid concern, as many PE/HF firms prefer candidates with permanent work authorization.
   • Tech offers a more straightforward path for internationals. With AI engineering, you can leverage your technical skills to secure roles in the US, and the demand for AI expertise is only growing.

3. Passion vs. Practicality:

   • While you lean towards finance passion-wise, your non-negotiable goal of working in the US might make tech the more practical choice. If you're willing to compromise on location, finance could still be an option, but it may limit your opportunities to regions outside the US.

4. Education and University Choice:

   • If you're heading to Germany for university, consider programs that allow you to build a strong foundation in both fields. For example, a degree in quantitative finance or data science could keep doors open for both tech and finance.
   • Additionally, focus on internships and networking during your studies. For finance, target internships at global banks or consulting firms with a presence in the US. For tech, aim for internships at companies known for sponsoring visas.

5. Long-Term Strategy:

   • If you choose finance, you might need to explore alternative paths to the US, such as pursuing an MBA at a top US business school. This could improve your chances of breaking into high finance with sponsorship.
   • If you choose tech, focus on building in-demand AI skills and gaining experience at companies with a strong US presence. This will make you a competitive candidate for roles in the US.

6. Final Recommendation:

   • If working in the US is your top priority, tech (AI engineering) is the safer bet due to better visa sponsorship prospects and growing demand for technical talent.
   • If your passion for finance outweighs your location preference, be prepared for a more challenging path and consider regions outside the US where finance opportunities are more accessible for internationals.

Ultimately, weigh your passion against your practical goals and decide which trade-offs you're willing to make.

Sources: Tech is over exaggerated here, Tech As An Alternative to Finance, Tech As An Alternative to Finance, “I went to Wall Street and my friends went into tech. Guess who made the mistake?"