Go the analyst route now or apply for b-school?
Hey guys,
I am trying to find guidance as to what to do moving forward. I am currently adequately compensated and generally enjoy my job, but I would like to take a chance and go into high finance.
So here is where I stand atm:
- 3.5~ gpa, from Florida State. B.S in Actuarial Science, 2013 grad
- Currently working as a Financial Analyst, corporate finance for a F500. Work is generally satisfying and not high stress... Typical 9 to 5 job.
- Weak ECs
- Worked in tech consulting b4 switching to Finance, combine WE is ~ 10 mo. (didnt find a job right after graduation)
- I know finance well enough, have strong math skills, Excel, Access, etc. Kinda weak in accounting tho
- Live in the Bay Area, so SF is near enough where I can plan to meetup for coffee, drinks etc.with bankers if the opportunity arises.
- Scored a 332 in my GRE (166 Q).
Questions:
1) Am I even in contention to land an IB analyst role? Should I just skip BBs and just focus on MMs and boutiques? Given that I am a year + out of school, how would this play out into their recruiting/hiring preferences. Would people hiring at banks just think I am too old (I am 24) to start as an analyst? Should I start cold calling and emailing now that hiring season is going to get into full swing?
2) What, if anything, can I do to improve my resume? Take the CFA? Should I put GRE scores if/when I am asked for my resume or apply online? Any ECs that would help me here?
3) Should I just wait and go into B-school a few years down the road? I know this question would be much more suitable in the B-school section, but I would really appreciate any insights into B-school from my stats. Would I have a chance to get into a B-school where there is a reasonable shot at getting into IB as an associate?
Thanks for your insight WSO,
Your average Chimp.
