Should I even try for quant if I go to a non-target?
I am a rising high school senior who is interested in pursuing a career involving anything in math, stats, finance and data science. As of now, I most likely will be attending a non-target school(tOSU to be specific) and have been looking into maybe trying to aim for a career as a quant analyst. From what I have heard and seen online, most if not all quants usually do their undergrad in a t10 program. While I would say that I am slightly smarter than your average high schooler, I would not label myself as a math genius and my overall application is very mid. Is it even worth pursuing quant or should I set my sights to somewhere lower? What are some schools in undergrad which have good quant connections but are not insanely competitive?(aside from the t20 schools such as mit, columbia etc.) Is it even feasible to get into a decent masters program from an extreme non-target such as OSU? I would appreciate any advice on my situation.
Absolutely, you should still consider pursuing a quant career even if you're attending a non-target school like Ohio State University (OSU). Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:
Non-Target Schools and Quant Careers:
While it's true that top quant firms often recruit from elite schools like HYPS or MIT, being from a non-target school doesn't disqualify you. The quant field is more skills-based compared to banking, meaning your technical abilities, coding skills, and passion for the field can help you stand out. Non-target students have succeeded in quant roles by proving their competence and passion.
Building Your Profile:
Master’s Programs from Non-Targets:
It is feasible to get into a strong master’s program from a non-target like OSU. Admissions committees value strong academic performance, relevant projects, and internships. Aim for a high GPA, particularly in quantitative courses, and consider applying to programs like MFE (Master of Financial Engineering) or data science.
Schools with Good Quant Connections:
If you're considering transferring or exploring other options, schools like USC, NYU, Cornell, and Georgia Tech have strong quantitative programs and are less competitive than the top 10. These schools can provide better access to quant-related internships and networking opportunities.
Mindset and Effort:
The key takeaway is that the "cream will rise to the top." If you're willing to put in the work, strategically build your skills, and network effectively, you can overcome the challenges of being from a non-target school. Many non-target students have successfully broken into quant roles by demonstrating their passion and technical abilities.
In summary, don't let the non-target label discourage you. Focus on building a strong technical foundation, gaining relevant experience, and networking strategically. With dedication, you can absolutely pursue a quant career.
Sources: Deciding on quantitive majors/career path?, So you want to be a Quant?, So you want to be a Quant?, Why Do BBs even hire from Non-targets?, The Case for Choosing a Non-Target
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