Is 35 y.o. too late to try to break in equity research?

Hello everyone!

So I am 35 years old. I have a bachelor's in Economics (graduated in 2009) from top universities in Moscow. I worked mostly in compliance field back in Russia. After I moved to the US I've worked as an administrative assistant only. I am currently working on a stock pitch and planning to send it to asset management companies and hedge funds, since I've figured that with no relevant experience there are no chances for me even to get an interview and internships are only for recent graduates.

However, sometimes I think that it might not even worth trying because of my age and that my resume does not appeal competitive at all. So my question is "Is it too late to even try to start a career in equity research based on prerequisites provided above?"

I would really appreciate any comments and experiences. Thank you!

Comments (6)

2y 
franco, what's your opinion? Comment below:

I could be wrong but I think employers are not necessarily turned off by an applicant's age. Rather it is the potential baggage that someone who is older will bring if they aren't humble, don't have a growth mentality, don't fit in well with the team and have expectations of getting promoted quicker. I am not saying that everyone who has had a few more years before they find the role they are after is like that, just that it something that some employers worry about. 

Perhaps you can take advantage of your background and try to find an equity research house that is looking to increase coverage of the Russia.  

2y 
atir58, what's your opinion? Comment below:

thank you so much for your comment! I will continue trying. I guess it's not only age but age along with no relevant experience... On the other hand, if I don't try now, I'll definitely not do it later

2y 
Stratguy, what's your opinion? Comment below:

35 not too old at all to get into equity research. But I dont think after years of admin work, a mere stock pitch is gonna get you in the door. especially if you're in a hyper competitive market like nyc or another major metro.

Have you made any progress toward a CFA? that would certainly help. You might have a better shot by leveraging your compliance experience to get a compliance/trading surveillance job covering equities. Then work on knocking out CFA levels, while networking and making pals in the research department of your firm. Its a longer-term path, but a guy with just some compliance & admin experience getting a research job by sending a stock pitch is a loooong shot.

  • 1
2y 
atir58, what's your opinion? Comment below:

I am now studying for CFA level 1 only. I do understand that I am in a very unfavorable position, but can't think of any other career path I would like to be in.

Thank you so much for taking time and giving your much appreciated piece of advice!

P.S. I am a female

2y 
HuskySized, what's your opinion? Comment below:

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