No experience, Economics degree, graduating in May

3.5 from semi-target, and haven't done shit in college except party and travel. I know it's an uphill battle but what would you do in my situation? Just look through the Jobs section and apply to everything?

I don't really have a love for finance, but it seems interesting (I've enjoyed all the finance/accounting/math/compsci classes I've had). Pretty much just looking for a job I wouldn't be embarrassed to work at (above average salary (75k mid-career), with some free time, and not so boring I'd hate my life). I'm planning on living in the DC area. Federal Government work the best I can do?

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The way hiring is going even a 4.0 with relevant internships isn't a guarantee into FO wall street from a semi target school. On the other hand if you don't even have a love for finance, then you will hate the mediocre exit opps/pay you will get from a small/no name firm so it isn't even worth it IMO. If you're interested in investing (which is undoubtedly "interesting") then you might find firms on Linkedin or through other sources willing to give you a shot. If you're just looking for a good career, with your interests then I would either go with Federal Government work (in finance or whatever else) or a startup of some sort which will provide you with responsibility, stimulation, etc. I also know people shit on BB OPS but that isn't a terrible idea either if you get to work in a smaller major city that isn't NY with the higher cost of living. 80+K for life will pretty much be ensured after some seniority with 50ish hours per week so it isn't a bad idea, I hear computer science/MIS/database jobs pay a lot better though (100-150K on par with other engineering jobs).

Also a 3.5 isn't terrible so don't discount going to grad school, MSF, PHD, etc as that is often helps kids really focus on a few areas of interests.

 

You can't do anything now except apply. I would say you apply to everything you're interested in - meanwhile, start prepping your MSF/grad school paperwork. take whatever comes first (reasonable job, grad school).

I'll do what I can to help ya'll. But, the game's out there, and it's play or get played.
 

Amazing how people are saying he needs to start considering grad school. You people are delusional.

He said 75k mid career. He said he doesn't care that much if its finance or not. He has a 3.5.... he can easily get a job somewhere. I would advise you look into startup companies and try doing something in a development type role. Government work would be good too, look into the programs they have, plus it would be a stable career.

3.5 from UVA outside of the IB/S&T/HF world is strong, try getting an internship for the spring and then just starting reaching out to places. Will only know if you try.

Frank Sinatra - "Alcohol may be man's worst enemy, but the bible says love your enemy."
 

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