School thoughts? Should I even go into finance? Also chances of getting into top schools/stuff about it?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:

Schools

• Top Schools for Finance: If you have a chance to get into HYPSM (Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, MIT) or Penn, these are excellent choices for a career in high finance. They offer strong networks, prestigious programs, and significant recruiting opportunities.
• Other Strong Options: UC Berkeley, NYU Stern, and Cornell Dyson are also highly regarded and can provide solid pathways into finance roles like IB, PE, or HF. These schools have strong finance programs and good placement records in the industry.
• Finance vs. Economics Major: Many top schools offer Economics with a finance concentration rather than a pure Finance major. This is generally fine and won't significantly disadvantage you. Schools like MIT and UPenn, which offer a Finance major, might go more in-depth into financial markets and instruments, which can be beneficial.

Should You Go Into Finance?

• Burnout Concerns: It's true that many professionals in IB and PE experience burnout due to the demanding nature of the work. It's important to weigh your personal goals and tolerance for high-stress environments against the potential rewards.
• Passion and Fit: If you have a genuine passion for finance and are competitive by nature, you might find the challenges rewarding. However, it's crucial to be realistic about the lifestyle and demands of these careers.

Admissions and Career Path

• Competitiveness: Admissions into top schools and firms have indeed become more competitive. However, attending a non-top school like UC Berkeley, NYU Stern, or Cornell Dyson can still lead to successful finance careers if you leverage internships, networking, and relevant coursework effectively.
• Backup Plans: If you don't get into your top-choice schools, focus on excelling wherever you go. Seek out internships, join finance clubs, and network actively. Many successful finance professionals come from non-target schools but have built impressive careers through determination and strategic planning.

Final Thoughts

• Existential Crisis: It's normal to have doubts and concerns about your career path, especially in high school. Take time to explore your interests, talk to professionals in the field, and consider what aspects of finance excite you the most.

Remember, your career path is a journey, and there are multiple ways to achieve your goals. Good luck!

Sources: Career in Finance - Reality or Reach?, Accounting vs Finance: Part 1 – Career Paths, Accounting vs Finance: Part 1 – Career Paths, High School....now what? AM career??, Questioning my decision to go into finance. Why did you pursue banking? Legitimate answers please.