Imperial Msc Finance & Accounting or Taking over Grandma's business

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of your situation:

Imperial MSc Finance & Accounting

1. Pros:

   • Imperial's MSc Finance & Accounting is highly regarded, especially for its practical focus and career-oriented structure. It’s known for offering modules like VBA/Python, which are valuable for tech IB/PE roles.
   • The program has strong placement in London, particularly in IB and finance-related fields, which aligns with your goal of pivoting into tech IB/PE.
   • Completing the MSc would expand your network significantly, giving you access to alumni and recruiters in top-tier finance roles.
   • Your prior experience in M&A and your current VC internship would complement the MSc, making you a strong candidate for IB/PE roles post-graduation.

2. Cons:

   • The opportunity cost of leaving a potentially lucrative and fulfilling family business.
   • The financial and time investment required for the MSc, especially if you’re already gaining relevant experience through internships.

Taking Over Grandma’s Business

1. Pros:

   • The rose farm and export business is already established and profitable, with strong demand. This provides a stable foundation for growth.
   • You’d have the opportunity to build on your grandmother’s legacy and potentially scale the business further, leveraging your analytical and strategic skills from your M&A and VC experience.
   • Entrepreneurship offers autonomy and the chance to create significant value, which could be more fulfilling than a corporate finance role.
   • The business could serve as a unique asset in your career, even if you decide to pivot back to finance later.

2. Cons:

   • Running a business, especially in agriculture and exports, comes with its own set of challenges, including operational risks, market volatility, and the need for hands-on management.
   • It may not align with your current career aspirations in tech IB/PE, and stepping away from finance could make it harder to re-enter the field later.
   • The lack of a structured network and mentorship compared to what you’d gain at Imperial.

Key Considerations:

1. Long-Term Goals:

   • If your ultimate goal is to work in tech IB/PE, the MSc at Imperial is a clear path to achieving that. The program’s reputation and resources will position you well for these roles.
   • If you’re open to entrepreneurship and see potential in scaling the rose business, taking over could be a rewarding alternative.

2. Timing:

   • You could consider deferring your MSc admission for a year to test the waters with the family business. This would allow you to assess its potential without fully committing to leaving finance.

3. Passion and Fulfillment:

   • Reflect on what excites you more: the structured, high-stakes world of finance or the creative, hands-on challenge of running and growing a business.

Recommendation:

If tech IB/PE is your primary goal, pursuing the MSc at Imperial is the safer and more direct route. However, if you’re deeply inspired by your grandmother’s work and see a clear path to scaling the business, taking over could be a unique and fulfilling opportunity. Consider discussing with mentors or professionals in both fields to gain additional perspectives.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/admitted-to-imperial-college-business-school-msc-finance-and-lse-msc-finance-for-2019?customgpt=1, MSF Class of 2018, MS in Accounting and Fundamental Analysis - Columbia Business School, Imperial MSc Finance and Accounting vs. ESCP MiM vs. IE MIF, Profile Evaluation - MSc Finance