Hi guys,
While I am aware that this subject has probably been discussed several times, I am looking for your advice based on my precise situation. Here are the details.
- 28 y/o
- undergrad in business administration w/ concentration in economics from a non-target in Quebec, Canada. Decent GPA > 3 (wasn't really motivated back then, interest for finance came after studies)
- Worked 2 years in a BB Private Bank in Montreal. Was paired w/ senior private bankers to take care of clients (both individuals and commercials) - While it was paid ok, the work was not stimulating, could not see the next step there.
- Passed the CFA 1 to add more finance knowledge to my economics back ground
- Moved abroad in Europe to try and find work there. Objective was to try and find a financial analyst role, most jobs I'm applying to required a masters degree here so I am having a hard time to move forward with this.
- It has been suggested to me to go and do a MSc, there are some programs (ex: in UK that I could do in 1 year at Saint Andrews, Sussex etc.)
- While that would set me back of a year (and 30K pounds !!) I think the experience would be pretty interesting and would add a big plus to my background. The fact it would be abroad + in english could also be of great help. I could also pursue an internship in the Msc.
I am still applying to various jobs right now but I would like to have your opinion on whether the MSc could be a great solution to my problems.
Thanks in advance for your answers
In most German speaking countires and yes, in most European countries Master is pretty much required for any analyst role, however in the UK most jobs don't require a masters. If you are keen on doing it and have the money,see some employment reports of the schools you are looking at. Most people will tell you to go only to a target LSE,Imperial,Oxbridge,but St Andrews is definitely worth it in my view. Have you tried to network with professionals in the area you are trying to break in? Networking is not as common as in the US,but definitely can get you some interviews. Also,it seems that you have quite a unique story and I think you should leverage it.
Yes, this is something I learned when I first started looking for work here. I am also considering applying to jobs in the UK but being in Paris right now, it would be harder for me to go through the interview process.
As for the top tier schools, unfortunately, their masters programs are really much much more expensive than the St.Andrews, Exeter et cie.
I have networked a bit with some professionals here but I have to say that I did not push it as much as I could, I am still feeling uneasy about this whole networking approach, even if I recognize its importance. I also believe that I have a quite unique story and I'm confident in my ability to handle interviews, the problem is just to get there.
Thank you for your answer !
Sounds like you have the right approach. Since you are in France have you consideted HEC,EDHEC,ESSEC etc? I definitely know what you mean by the uncomfortable networwking approach,but if you view masters as a door to the interview room (which it is to a large extent) then the networking is pretty much the equivalent. Once you are in the interview room, it won't matter whether you got the interview via applying through university portal or via a reference. Hence, try both to maximise your chances. Good luck!
I have considered doing it in France, I know the quality of schools here is similar to those in UK (in general). My motivation to do it in the UK comes from the fact that it would be in english, which would confirm my english level to everyone (it's not my first language).
I will definitely start networking more, however, I see the Masters as a permanent way to ease myself in the next interview rooms. I could also really use the additional knowledge that comes with it. Even if I want to complete the CFA cursus, nothing really stands out like a Msc I think,
Thank you again for your answers. Feel free to drop me a private message if you want to keep discussing ! cheers @eastfromheaven"
Non quasi atque aut ea. Quaerat perspiciatis eum eos explicabo optio quos similique.
Cum et laudantium minima ut praesentium vero. Assumenda non placeat reprehenderit adipisci. Eaque omnis odio tempora illum maxime rerum sit.
At tempora voluptas nulla hic voluptatem. Repudiandae harum in nulla vel ut quam. Veniam voluptas et omnis culpa voluptas. Dignissimos mollitia fugit aperiam beatae dignissimos rerum architecto. Asperiores amet vero a distinctio amet nisi.
Blanditiis est itaque dolore. Nobis ut excepturi sed officiis qui. At expedita unde sit. Nobis quis et voluptatibus.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...