Feeling lost and seeking help...

Hey guys, long time lurker with a bit of a large first post so apologies in advance, I'll try to keep it to just the important information. I am feeling concerned about my future right now and could really use some guidance. 

I just turned 20 and started my sophomore year at my state school studying Computer Science. I picked this college because it's high ranking for CS but I have come to realize I fucking hate studying it. I somehow got a 4.0 my first year, don't ask me how, but it took everything out of me. I think the straw that broke the camels back was this summer I messed up a relationship with the girl I've dated since I was 7 years old because I was so depressed and burnt out from the experience.

So look, I've got to change something or I think my heart is going to give out. I've always wanted to do traditional finance, I can't nail down a specific path yet but ideally an econ degree from a sufficient school can slot me into some position I enjoy. Maybe it sounds silly, but 100 hours a week would be a dream compared to how coding makes me feel. This semester I was able to swap into the econ major at my school, I am taking the introductory courses so I will have the prerequisite coursework to help me be better considered as a transfer applicant. I actually tried transferring last semester, but it was too much with everything else going on and I maybe got like 4-5 applications out at the end of it, all past the deadline. Rice, Cornell, Penn, Vandy, and Stanford, all rejected of course, not surprised considering not only were the applications a few days late but also rushed. 

I get the feeling transferring is getting harder and harder each year. I have a 3.6 or something from high school and a 4.0 now. My EC's are 'okay' I guess. My family has a foundation that helps build shelters in Africa and I did that for a year before college, I am doing clubs at my school and kind of 'founded' one to do with Quant finance, which I now hate, and I have a black belt in Judo, but it's not like I cured cancer or won a national violin contest or something. I figured I would try for the spring transfer cycle and the fall. After this semester I will probably have a 3.9 instead of a 4.0, but other than that not many changes, I can maybe snag a law firm internship with a friends father. I feel like there is so much I don't know that I should, like if I apply to the agricultural linguistic studies major will I get an edge or not.

I also don't know what angle to play with my application. I grew up poor in a single family household and I am technically hispanic. At the same time, my dad is from a very rich family in Spain, he decided to ditch them for America and have me, but it seems like the estate is going through changes soon. I can't say I know exactly what's happening, I'm still getting to know them, but I guess the point is if I go to a good school and study econ and maybe do PE for a year or two I will have an in and the new family office. I learned recently that apparently my grandfather went to Babson. Without giving too much away about my family my grandfather oversaw the creation of many important buildings and was the CEO of a construction company worth conservatively 500M-1B. I have an interview with them next week and I am kind of unsure how to bring it up in a way that would help me get in. Interesting situation for sure, I can give more context if people ask but this post is already getting quite long.

I don't know which applicant a college wants more, the poor 'hispanic' kid from a single parent household asking for financial aid or the rich kid from an important family not asking for any aid. They never say this, but I assume if you don't ask for aid you have a better chance of being let in, especially to a small private university. My family in Spain will pay for something like that, they did with all my relatives. I don't know, I figured someone in here works for an endowment or has some idea of the culture of college admissions on a deeper level, I guess that's really my big question.

Thank you for reading if you did, I appreciate any advice you guys can throw my way, I am getting off campus this weekend to see my family and write some essays for some schools. Please ask me any questions if it helps, I've been a long time lurker here and knew you guys would probably have the best insight on this compared to anyone else I know.

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

Key Points to Consider:

  1. Current Academic Performance and Major Change:

    • You have a strong academic record with a 4.0 GPA in your first year.
    • You've switched to an economics major, which aligns more with your interests in traditional finance.
  2. Transfer Application Strategy:

    • Transferring to top schools is competitive, but your strong GPA and unique background can be advantageous.
    • Ensure your applications are submitted on time and are well-prepared. Consider applying to a mix of target and non-target schools to increase your chances.
  3. Extracurricular Activities:

    • Your involvement in your family's foundation, founding a finance club, and having a black belt in Judo are strong points.
    • Highlight these activities in your applications to showcase your leadership and diverse experiences.
  4. Personal Background:

    • Your background as a poor Hispanic student from a single-parent household can be a compelling narrative.
    • However, your connection to a wealthy family in Spain and potential financial support can also be a strategic advantage.
  5. Financial Aid Considerations:

    • Not asking for financial aid can sometimes improve your chances at private universities.
    • Weigh the benefits of presenting yourself as a financially independent applicant versus leveraging your unique background for diversity considerations.
  6. Career Aspirations:

    • Your interest in traditional finance and potential connections to a family office can be a strong motivator.
    • Consider internships and networking opportunities that align with your career goals in finance.

Actionable Steps:

  1. Prepare Strong Transfer Applications:

    • Focus on crafting compelling essays that highlight your academic achievements, personal background, and career aspirations.
    • Seek feedback from mentors or advisors to strengthen your applications.
  2. Leverage Your Network:

    • Utilize your connections, such as the potential internship with a friend's father at a law firm, to gain relevant experience.
    • Network with professionals in the finance industry to explore opportunities and gain insights.
  3. Balance Your Narrative:

    • Decide on the angle that best represents your story—whether it's your humble beginnings or your potential financial independence.
    • Be authentic and consistent in your applications.
  4. Stay Informed and Adapt:

    • Keep up with deadlines and requirements for transfer applications.
    • Be flexible and open to different paths that can lead to your desired career in finance.

Additional Considerations:

  • Mental Health and Well-being:

    • Prioritize your mental health and seek support if needed. Burnout and depression are serious issues that can impact your academic and personal life.
    • Consider speaking with a counselor or advisor to manage stress and develop a balanced approach to your studies and career planning.
  • Long-term Goals:

    • Think about your long-term career goals and how your current decisions align with them.
    • Whether it's pursuing an econ degree, working in private equity, or joining a family office, ensure your path supports your aspirations.

By focusing on these key areas and taking actionable steps, you can navigate your current challenges and work towards a successful future in finance. Good luck!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/any-front-office-african-americans-in-ib?customgpt=1, Why having rich parents matter when it comes to "Fit" in IB., My Issues with Diversity Recruiting in Finance, Why having rich parents matter when it comes to "Fit" in IB., The lack of low income/first gen programs prove that diversity is just for publicity

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

Your story is weird. You're poor and rich and own a business empire ?

Anyhow. All I can say is schools like future heavy hitters, shakers and movers so yeah, doesn't hurt to toot your horn.

My family's productions:

1. 1 Univ of Chicago MBA  grad (MBA)

2. 1 Univ of California San Diego grad (MBA)

 

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