Need some advice

For some context, both my parents are immigrants that came here about 15 years ago, and I am the first one in my family to attend college. Their dream has always been for me to become a doctor. Unfortunately, I have never had a passion for medicine, but I have been good at science and math. As a junior studying Neuroscience at a t10 university, I secured an IB SA offer at one of the top MMs/ lower BBs. Since I just started taking my major classes, as all I have done is take the easy prerequisites for the past two years, like general chemistry and physics, I feel like switching to econ or stats, where I can still graduate on time. But my parents keep pressuring me to study pre-med because the job security in finance is bad, and if I don't get a return offer or lose my job, I can apply to med school. However, I feel like my GPA will tank, and I realize I don't have a passion for studying medicine. The problem is my parents threatened not to pay my tuition. Even now, my parents don't understand finance and are not proud that I secured an SA offer at one of the top firms. They constantly shit on my decision to go into finance and how I am wasting my life to the point where it feels so demoralizing. I feel like I am in a challenging position since my parents have no experience in this realm, and no one in my own family has enough experience I can reach out to. My gut tells me to just switch to Econ or Stats and drop this whole pre-med bullshit, as I feel like I don't have a passion for it, but I think I can get through it as long as I study enough.

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:

Key Points to Consider:

  1. Passion and Interest:

    • It's crucial to pursue a field you are passionate about. Many users have shared that pursuing a career solely for financial security or parental approval can lead to long-term dissatisfaction.
    • If you have a genuine interest in finance and have already secured an IB SA offer, it indicates a strong potential and interest in this field.
  2. Academic Path:

    • Switching to a major like Economics or Statistics, where you can still graduate on time, might be a wise decision. These fields are highly relevant to finance and can provide a solid foundation for your career.
    • Users have noted that majors like Economics and Statistics are valuable in finance and can be less demanding than pre-med, potentially helping you maintain a higher GPA.
  3. Parental Pressure:

    • Many users have faced similar situations where parents pressured them into specific career paths. It's important to have an open and honest conversation with your parents about your interests and career goals.
    • Highlight the success and opportunities in finance, and explain how your current achievements (like securing an SA offer) are significant.
  4. Job Security in Finance:

    • While job security in finance can be a concern, the skills and experience you gain can open diverse career opportunities. Finance professionals often transition into various roles within and outside the industry.
  5. Financial Considerations:

    • If your parents threaten to withdraw financial support, consider exploring scholarships, financial aid, or part-time work to support your education. Many users have successfully navigated similar challenges.

Actionable Steps:

  1. Evaluate Your Interests:

    • Reflect on your genuine interests and long-term career goals. If finance excites you more than medicine, it’s worth pursuing.
  2. Communicate with Your Parents:

    • Have a detailed discussion with your parents about your career aspirations. Use data and examples from successful finance careers to support your case.
  3. Seek Support:

    • Reach out to mentors, career advisors, or professionals in the finance industry for guidance and support. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate this transition.
  4. Plan Financially:

    • Look into financial aid options, scholarships, and part-time job opportunities to ensure you can continue your education if parental support is withdrawn.
  5. Leverage Your SA Offer:

    • Use your SA offer as a stepping stone to build a strong network and gain valuable experience. This can significantly enhance your career prospects in finance.

Conclusion:

Switching to a major that aligns with your interests and strengths, like Economics or Statistics, while leveraging your IB SA offer, seems like a strategic move. Balancing your passion with practical considerations and open communication with your parents will be key to navigating this challenging situation.

Sources: What would you do if you were me? (Medicine vs Business), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/my-hippie-mom-doesnt-want-me-to-go-into-ib?customgpt=1, Give up medicine for ibanking? (Undergrad at Northwestern BS MD), Banking doesn’t sound as bad when you consider other paths., Need help picking a college major

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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