Give up quant?
I’m a HS school junior who’s not an Asian math-Olympiad-winning genius, should I give up my hopes of getting into quant finance? I’m mainly interested in the quant researcher and dev roles. And no, I don’t wanna do it just for the 💰. Yeah it’s attractive, but I’m also into math and coding. I already know quite a lot of Python, but not anything quant/data-specific. I was thinking of doing a double major in Finance and Math for my bachelor’s, then do a Master’s in either Math or a Master's in Quant Finance. But even if I do all this, are the chances still too slim for me to commit? I’ve been half-assed about going for a quant role and a PE one. The former sounds more attractive cause of the actual work, but the latter is relatively ‘easier’. Also, I’d feel a lot more secure in terms of employment over the long term with being a quant. I was wondering if there is enough chance for me in either over the other that I could commit to a single role. Thanks.
If it helps, I’m based in Dubai, not the States.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:
First off, you don’t need to be an "Asian math-Olympiad-winning genius" to break into quant finance. While it's true that many high-level quant roles are filled by individuals with advanced degrees (PhDs in Math, Physics, or Engineering) and exceptional quantitative skills, there are still pathways for someone with your interests and background to succeed.
Key Points to Consider:
Your Current Skills and Interests:
Education Path:
Realistic Expectations:
Quant vs. PE:
Commitment and Focus:
Final Advice:
Your chances aren’t "too slim" if you’re willing to put in the work. Focus on building a strong quantitative and technical foundation, gain practical experience, and network strategically. While the path to becoming a quant may be challenging, it’s not impossible, especially if you’re genuinely passionate about the work. If you’re still unsure, consider internships or projects in both fields to get a better sense of what suits you best.
Sources: Deciding on quantitive majors/career path?, MBB vs Quant at IBank, Best internships for Quant Trading?, Quant Researcher in Quant Funds: Dead-End Career Path?, How to be a Millionaire Trader
I’m not in quant but did a top STEM degree so many of my friends are and I know a bit about the industry.
First of all, I greatly appreciate the input.
“The need to be a genius is overblown…” is something I wanted to hear. I think that even though it’s extremely competitive, social media exaggerates it even more.
I recognize that quant dev and research are completely different, but it’s between those two for me within quant.
I also recognize it’s unnecessary to do finance, but I think it would be something I would like. And yes, a double major is the plan. But, I did notice, some colleges like ETH Zurich offer a specialized Master’s in Quantitative Finance. Would you suggest that’s a better option for my path than pursuing Math as a grad?
I don’t mean to sound arrogant, but I think even if I start challenging myself with at least some quant-specific problems, it could take me a long way.
I agree that both of them are extremely different. PE placement is a lot more about the people you know, whereas quant is a lot more about what you can do, in a lack of better terms. I say PE is ‘easier’ as in that the process of getting into PE regarding academia is much less rigorous compared to the quant path.
If it makes sense, I didn’t mean quant was safer than PE, but after getting done both, I would have more value having done quant. And, I should have said this earlier, I said this taking into account AI’s growth by the time I do start working. I think I’d be more valuable with a Math/Comp Sci degree than Finance. I’m open to criticism though.
Again, thank you for your help.
I think I’m in a similar position to you, just a few years ahead and am honestly still considering trying to jump across to quant instead (I’m currently early-stage MBB and considering PE).
For people outside of math/physics/stats, a lot of people can seem like geniuses. I think this happens a lot on WSO where people come from mostly finance backgrounds. I think this is what causes the overblown perception.
Quant finance masters are also good. For dev it’s an unnecessary extra. For research, it’s slightly strange since a few places will take you on with that masters but many will still require PhDs. If it’s something you think you’d like to do, then go ahead but it’s not necessary.
I think the AI point is a good one, but I’m not even sure personally how best to future proof myself. Research seems very safe, dev potentially less so. PE is up for debate, but my guess is that’s it’s a messy enough business to be safe. I’m honestly just guessing though. I agree in general that being numerically literate is a good place to start.
Out of interest, is there a reason you haven’t considered trading?
I hope for your sake that a jump from MBB to quant isn’t as hard as it sounds, but if I’m not wrong a jump from MBB to PE is common enough.
I agree that on WSO, and also on other platforms, people that DON’T study maths/physics often cause this distorted image.
Do you mean that devs don’t need a masters at all or that they pursue a masters in something like math/physics/comp sci? I would assume the latter.
Though I did talk about future proofing myself, I think you’re in a much tougher position because of the time frame we’re in right now during the surge of AI. The future of AI is still a blurry picture. And I completely agree with PE being a messy business. A day of digging is enough to doubt if PE will even exist as an option by the time I’m graduated because it’s a failing model.
To be completely honest, it’s mainly that I’ve never been convinced of quantitative trading. I’m more of a believer in ‘A Random Walk Down Wall Street’ and that sort of stuff — I don’t think you can predict stock prices, even with the smartest people. I’d feel much better developing these strategies rather than applying it to people’s money. But more importantly, this role just never stood out to me compared to the other two.
Does stat helps tho
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