This is going to be a special topic (Highschool Junior)

Question

I've been lurking on these forums for a while now, and I finally decided to make an account even though I'm very out of place. I'm currently a high school Junior in an International School in Zurich,Switzerland. Yes, I reside in the secret banking capital of the world and my dad hides Nazi gold under his bed.

Buzz_Lightyear · Accepted Answer

Do everyone a favor and don't listen to your parents, unless your father already works in finance. An engineering degree is good if you plan on being an engineer. If you want to work in IB and move over to the buyside, which you apparently wish to do, the best and safer option is a normal finance degree. A double major would be best if you're set on engineering since it would tick the finance box, something that a minor cannot do as it doesn't hold the same weight as a major.

MarkBaum · Answer

I think it might suit you better to major in Applied math or math if you intend on wanting a more technical course load. However, I agree with others in saying IB is mostly about getting the highest GPA you can. An engineering background almost always results in a lower GPA so really be careful when you are pursuing that.

In terms of the ACT/SAT, get on that quick. If you want to get into top Ivys then it is extremely crucial to do well on those. For ACT I would aim at 34+ and SAT around 1530+.

Buzz_Lightyear · Answer

If your future goal is to break into IB, then why do you want to major in engineering? You'll be making your life harder for no reason, even at a target school (assuming you make it into one) not to mention the insane competition for Visa sponsorship. No one cares about your minor. A double major would be more suitable if you absolutely have to major in engineering, but I don't think that would be a very wise decision. You supposedly have a "knack for business" and enjoy finance, so why go down the engineering path if you're set on IB from such a young age?

Deal Team Six · Answer

Listen to Buzz in his post above. I understand why you would trust your father over some random WSO users, but you can either trust us and make it easier on yourself, or trust your father and learn the hard way. As every generation has said to the one before/after them, the times have changed. You are right, an engineering degree is awesome, but not for IB/PE unless you want to specialize in acquisitions related to engineering firms (VERY niche). I chose accounting as a major, which is pretty much the only major usually accepted for IBD positions aside from finance.

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This is going to be a special topic (Highschool Junior)

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