Advice for 30yo wanting to break into finance with ms finance

I just hit 30, 3rd world country, self studied finance for a year (few online certificates i.e. MITx Finance ,Financial engineering ), no relevant background, interior design undergrad + art background (Musician, Photographer).

I'm trying to get admission into business schools in Europe and US, UK.
contacted some universities and got a few OKs for admissions semi-targets and non-targets in the US (Fordham, Notre Dame, Rutgers), UK (SOAS, Queen Mary, Bayes), France (Emlyon), and Canada (Simon Fraser).

Im worried like hell about job prospects, i wanna break into finance i dont think i have a shot in IB but i like the whole industry ( RE, AM, CF, WM, consulting, commercial banking) and take anything (hate accounting). 

what do you guys think is the best place for me to go? my best chances at landing a Finance job.

5 Comments
 

Well, you've certainly got a unique background, my friend! But don't worry, finance is a broad field and there's room for everyone. Here's what I think:

  1. Education: You're on the right track with considering a Master's in Finance. It's a great way to gain the technical skills you'll need in the industry. The schools you've mentioned are all reputable, but you might want to consider their specific strengths and the types of companies that recruit from them.

  2. Location: If you're open to working anywhere, then consider the job market in each location. The US and UK have large finance sectors, but competition can be fierce. Canada and France might offer more opportunities for newcomers to the industry.

  3. Networking: This is key in finance. Start building your network now, reach out to alumni from your prospective schools, attend industry events, and don't be shy about asking for advice.

  4. Internships: These are a great way to get your foot in the door. Look for internships in the area of finance you're interested in. Even if it's not exactly what you want to do long-term, it's a start and you'll learn a lot.

  5. Leverage Your Unique Background: Your background in interior design and the arts could be a real asset. Many firms value diverse perspectives. You could look at roles in real estate finance or wealth management for art collectors, for example.

Remember, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey. Keep learning, keep networking, and keep pushing forward. You've got this!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/didnt-make-it-to-a-target-now-what?customgpt=1, 22 Year Old Failure Seeks Advice re: Breaking into Finance, Best one year finance master's, 3 years work experience in big 4, Ms Finance or MBA? Could you please give me some advice?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

You've barely listed top programs in any of the countries mentioned.

I don't think its reasonable to have 0 internships in the field and expect to land anything good,even with the MS. 

 

You've barely listed top programs in any of the countries mentioned.

I don't think its reasonable to have 0 internships in the field and expect to land anything good,even with the MS. 

Sadly i don't think i be able to get into top programs with my art background undergrad ( tell me if you have any in mind) . 

I plan to take an internship here before i areive there or at the end of university. 

 

You've barely listed top programs in any of the countries mentioned.

I don't think its reasonable to have 0 internships in the field and expect to land anything good,even with the MS. 

And can you tell me what you mean by "good" if i take an intership, role/salary? 

 

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