Maths student intro and life advice

Hello fellow primates,

I've been lurking for a few months and thought it would be time to introduce myself and ask some questions, here goes.

I'm a European student currently majoring in Applied Mathematics at McGill in Montreal, and considering minors in CS and/or Finance. Although I'm studying math I don't necessarily want to become a professor (which is something people often assume). I'm thinking I might want to work in the finance industry since it seems to have some very challenging and rewarding careers. Throughout my life I've always had an easy time at school; I thought it would get harder at university, but I managed to ace all my classes. I don't necessarily need to work in a sector where I solve math equations all day, or program in front of a PC; I enjoy working with people. I am quite the opposite to your stereotypical introvert nerd. Being around smart and hard working people really motivates me, which is part of the reason why I think I'd be a good fit for the finance industry. I like to learn new things everyday, for example I just taught myself how to juggle. I want to be challenged to perform at my best.

I will graduate in 2019 and unfortunately did not land an internship this summer, but would very much like to land one the next. Do you guys have any tips or information you would like to share? Is one of the CS or finance minor more valuable than the other? I already know a few programming languages and think I would be able to teach myself some more in the next few years. Many internship descriptions ask for "displayed interest in finance", would a minor be a good way of doing this, or should I be doing something else? I am somewhat involved in the investment club at my university if that is of any interest. Do you think the finance industry would be a good fit for me?

Thank you very much for your time.

3 Comments
 

I'm not entirely sure. IBD seems fascinating, although I admit I don't know much about what other finance professionals actually do on the job.

 

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