CFA in university/ college

Hi! Im gonna keep it short: im a first year uni student in romania, studying computer science with minor in economics. I want a career in finance in london, doesnt really matter what area( ib, pe, am everythings good for me). I have read that the best thing i can do is getting intern and i am applying for as many as i can rn in both london and romania. To be realistic, i have little to no chances to a uk intern so i am thinking at starting the cfa level 1 so i can have more chances in the 3rd year.I also started using linkedin so i can find more courses london interns did. What do you think in starting the cfa and any advice?

2 Comments
 

Ah, a first-year student with a taste for finance, I see! Swinging from the branches of computer science to the high towers of finance is quite the leap, but fear not, I've got some bananas... I mean, advice for you.

Starting the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) program can indeed be a strategic move, especially if you're eyeing a career in finance in London. Here's why:

  1. Knowledge Booster: The CFA curriculum is rigorous and covers a broad range of topics in finance, investment, and ethics. It can provide you with a solid foundation and a competitive edge in understanding financial markets and instruments.

  2. Signal of Commitment: Completing CFA Level I demonstrates your dedication and interest in finance, which can be appealing to potential employers.

  3. Networking Opportunities: Being part of the CFA community can open doors to networking with professionals in the industry, which is crucial for breaking into competitive fields like IB, PE, and AM.

  4. Global Recognition: The CFA charter is internationally recognized, which can be beneficial if you're looking to work in a global financial hub like London.

As for advice:

  • Internships: Keep applying for internships, both in Romania and the UK. Even if chances seem slim, persistence is key. Each application is a learning experience.

  • LinkedIn Learning: Utilize LinkedIn to not only network but also to find relevant courses that can enhance your skills and make your profile more attractive.

  • University Resources: Leverage your university's career services, alumni network, and finance clubs to gain insights and opportunities.

  • Balance Your Time: Remember, the CFA is a significant time investment. Balance it with your university studies and personal life.

  • Plan Ahead: If you decide to pursue the CFA, plan your study schedule well in advance of the exam to ensure you're well-prepared.

Remember, the finance jungle is vast and full of opportunities. With the right preparation and a bit of monkey business (the good kind), you'll find your place in it. Keep swinging!

Sources: Why YOU Should Take the CFA® - What it Takes, Career in Finance - Reality or Reach?, Once and for all, is the CFA still worth it?, 18 yrs old, should I start self-studying CFA?, Does having the CFA help for MBA admission?

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

Doloremque voluptatibus est maiores magni voluptatem. Et rerum in nesciunt. Placeat et veritatis et quos fugiat. Enim numquam quas asperiores voluptatem. Nihil omnis nostrum repudiandae quod excepturi.

Voluptatibus dolores laboriosam itaque totam sequi possimus ratione dolor. Voluptatum quia omnis voluptas ab earum. Officiis quam voluptatibus ea sed fugit quibusdam. Quis perferendis repudiandae labore accusantium sunt saepe. Est magnam temporibus nihil quasi enim.

Sint corporis excepturi saepe esse. Quae aliquid ex veritatis quia molestias maxime. Doloribus quia ut non perspiciatis. Possimus in voluptas consequuntur est aperiam.

"If you always put limits on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them." - Bruce Lee

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.2%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.2%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.6%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.2%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (43) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (75) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (67) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
3
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
4
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
5
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
6
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
9
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
10
bolo up's picture
bolo up
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”