Double Majoring in Econ(or Math) and Philosophy
Hey all, incoming freshman at a heavy non-target(TCNJ). I'm working towards a high finance job(the dream is trading, but also looking into other higher WLB areas/areas where I can interact with clients) and I am considering double majoring in a quantitative finance major + philosophy. I greatly enjoy philosophy and logic and would specialize in that area of the subject. What is everyone's thoughts? Would I be better served maximizing GPA or would postgrad opportunities understand a 3.6-7 GPA in exchange for rigor?
Few notes:
- I am considering grinding for an Ivy transfer, but that's near impossible for business, which is where the dual major comes in handy. Finances are of no issue, I pay for college in full + will most likely be receiving a full scholarship
- Law school is also in the cards for me,
- I have ADHD(will be on Adderall or such when college starts) and did pretty poorly in HS, but am confident I can do better in an environment more suited to strong test takers and self-learners.
- TCNJ is nowhere near a target, but we are right next to Princeton for OCR, our proximity to major cities is great, and we do get fair amt of Big4 recruiting as our business school is considered very good for the value.
- EDIT: I forgot to add that I do have some connection into the industry as-is. My mom/dad is an ED-level at a BB, albeit in the back-office.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of your situation and some advice:
Double Majoring in Quantitative Finance and Philosophy: This combination can be quite compelling. Philosophy hones critical thinking and argumentation skills, which are valuable in finance, especially in areas that require strategic thinking and client interaction. Quantitative finance will give you the technical skills needed for trading and other analytical roles.
GPA Considerations: While a high GPA is important, many postgrad opportunities and employers also value the rigor of your coursework. A slightly lower GPA with a challenging double major can be understood, especially if you can articulate how your studies have prepared you for a career in finance.
Transferring to an Ivy: It's a competitive process, but your unique double major might help you stand out. However, ensure that you're also involved in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and internships that bolster your application.
Law School: If you're considering law school, philosophy is an excellent choice as it's known to be a strong pre-law major. It will also help with the LSAT, which has a significant focus on logic and reasoning.
Managing ADHD: It's good that you're seeking treatment and are confident in your ability to perform well in college. Make sure to utilize any available resources at your college for additional support.
Leveraging Location: Being close to Princeton for on-campus recruiting (OCR) and in proximity to major cities can be advantageous. Make sure to network extensively and take advantage of any recruiting events and career fairs.
Big4 Recruiting: If the Big4 recruit from your school, that's a positive sign of the school's reputation in the business community. These firms can be a stepping stone to high finance roles, especially if you excel and make the right connections.
Remember, it's not just about what you study, but also about how you leverage your experiences, network, and demonstrate your passion for the field. Keep your options open, and be prepared to pivot as you gain more clarity on your career goals.
Sources: Deciding on quantitive majors/career path?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/dilemma-quantitative-finance-vs-finance?customgpt=1, Finance Degree Worth More Than Accounting Degree?, Career for math major?
In terms of recruiting, the better GPA will be more meaningful than the extra philosophy major. Doing just the finance major might give you more time to network and prep for interviews.
TCNJ is a solid regional school in NJ but I doubt you'll get looks for big banks. I'd push for a high GPA + Transfer, but that might be difficult given you didn't do too well in HS.
If you really want to do high finance, here's what I'd do:
1. Crush freshman year and try to transfer, if that doesn't work out,...
2. Network/build a strong resume freshman/sophomore year and push hard for a summer internship after junior year. If it doesn't work out (or if your grades aren't good enough),...
3. Get a solid gig that is feasible from TCNJ. This could be Big 4, corporate finance at a F500 (a lot of the NJ Pharma recruits a lot from TCNJ), or a back office role at a NYC bank. Then shoot for a top MBA.
Or just enjoy yourself at TCNJ and get a good job afterwards. Honestly man with your ADHD, your bad high school grades, etc...not sure if high finance would suit you, but that's for you to decide.
Also- Don't just go to law school for the prestige. Do it if you actually want to go into law.
Hey, I appreciate the advice - of course, there's a little money and prestige involved with high finance and corp law, but I genuinely enjoy working with markets and the high-stress environment it puts me in.
The same goes for law: I've been working for judges and lawyers for years, and I love reading the law and interacting with clients. If we lived in an equitable world where I could actually do what I love and be comfortable doing it, I'd still either do law or a PhD in logical philosophy/behavioural economics.
As for the ADHD, I'm functionally extremely intelligent. I wouldn't say I'm a genius or anything, but I know for a fact that if I started on the same foot as everyone else in life did, I would have done pretty good for myself. The few times I have been on meds, I go crazy about my work(That's part of the reason I'm choosing not to obscure much about my life in this post -- if someone important finds this, it's not like I'll get exposed for lying.).
More to the point, though: I really appreciate all the advice here. You seem to know a good amount about TCNJ and the nontarget process as a whole- would you happen to know anyone I can talk on this to or be mentored by? I know I'm asking for a lot, but I sincerely believe I have upside to anyone willing to take a shot on me.
Definitely maximize GPA over rigor. I made this mistake my freshmen year taking a handful of unnecessarily difficult math+stats classes that lowered my GPA compared to if I had just cruised through with econ/random classes like the rest of my classmates did. Finance cares more about gpa+internships+school name more than what you actually studied. I would take those rigorous classes if you're genuinely interested or good at them, but if you're just trying to impress recruiters, your GPA is a lot more important. In terms of your freshmen year, definitely try your best and attempt a transfer to a top ~25 school. I know out of all the ivy's, Cornell probably has the most favorable transfer rates. Non-ivy schools like Georgetown, NYU, Michigan etc are also realistic transfers if you want to go to a target school. If not, maximize opportunities at your current school and join clubs/get internships.
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