'CFA Level 1 Candidate' appropriate for Non-finance degree graduates?
Is it acceptable for Non-finance degree graduates to display 'CFA Level 1 Candidate' on their resume? I see a strong consensus online that it's viewed negatively, however, what about those that come from untraditional backgrounds trying to break in? I'm considering challenging the CFA Level 1 as a way to reinvent myself and see it as a display of professional development in one's career pivot. However, I'm very new to this industry and that may not be the case in this scenario.
Context about me:
- Graduating senior with B.S. Biology (3.9) at non-target, decided late that I'd rather pursue a career in finance than medicine (Note: I've been contemplating this decision for about an entire year, recently made the firm choice)
- No formal coursework, No finance internships, Nothing. All medical-related.
- Entire CV/Resume is pre-medical related unfortunately (Research Analyst/Biostatistician, CNA, etc.)
What's an appropriate way to demonstrate learning in the midst of a career change? I would appreciate the community insight on this! Thank you.
The best way to demonstrate interest in finance is to apply to finance jobs.
I would target firms that work in the healthcare/pharmaceutical space. They'd appreciate your background for sure.
Get an internship and start building experience. You're starting with a STEM degree, strong focused extra curriculars, and a high GPA, it's not a bad place to be in.
Read and immerse yourself in it. Read the finance parts of WSJ every day. It won't make sense at first but the more you read it the more you'll begin to understand. It's beginner friendly. Read books, there's tons of threads with good ones. Investopedia is really strong for looking up concepts you run across.
I can't comment on the CFA and resume placement but if you can do L1, you'll learn a lot that way as well.
I know you said you’re at a non-target, see if you can reach out to alumni in the industry and see if they have any pointers for you.
Thanks for the reply,
I've applied to so many jobs + internships and nothing unfortunately (150+). Especially with internships, I'm auto-rejected due to 'Not Meeting Graduation Date requirements'. Considering that I'm graduating May 2023, I'm deemed too old for internships. However, I'm aware that I'm far too inexperienced to land a full-time role. I feel stuck and hopeless. In addition to my B.S. Biology, I've been immersed in financial subjects for the past few years. Really love self-studying this stuff and should've changed my major sooner. I would define my current knowledge along something like 'little bit above surface level, can confidently speak on intermediate topics'.
What internships would be more friendly towards non-traditional applicants?
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