Hey all, Thanks in advance for any advice. Essentially, I'm at sort of a crossroads and I'm not sure what my next move should be. Was hoping that people with more experience could point me in the right direction.
Background: - 25 years old - School was a liberal arts college with a good rep, but is definitely non-target. Majored in economics/finance and was a D-1 athlete - finished with 3.48 GPA - Currently I work at a major data provider (Bloomberg / Thomson Reuters / Dow Jones) on a team specializing in fixed income data. I've been at this company ever since graduating; I initially interned there, moved into an analyst role after graduating, and this past month I was promoted to senior analyst. - I have one certification that isn't that well known - it's called the FISD Financial Information Associate Certification
So now I'm trying to figure out what I should do next. I was planning on spending the next two years or so on the CFA exams. Is this a good idea, or should I focus my efforts on something else (I've also considered studying for the GMAT, but the price tag of business school has me a bit weary, unless people think that it would do more for me)? Realistically, what sort of firms would I have a chance at getting looks from? My current role is finance-related, but I know that I don't have the background with a bank or PE firm that other applicants do.
I think that due to your GPA and somewhat tangental experience, some sort of a reset is needed. While some people on this site may think otherwise, perhaps a one year masters at a reputable school can help you accomplish this goal. This is something I did and it suited me well. Ended up at a top tier MM firm (think HL, HW, Lazard MM, etc.) and on to a venture debt/growth equity firm with ~$500MM AUM. My undergrad was far worse, and the struggle was probably much greater than if I had done a full reset at a top tier MBA, but I also have a heck of a lot less debt than my colleagues.
Finally some advice; thank you very much!
Yea, GPA was ok but wish I could have cranked out a 3.7 or 3.8.
I didnt even know 1 year masters was an option; do most schools offer it? What area/ focus was yours in?
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