Value of an MSF (Nova, WUSTL, UVA) for a target undergrad '13
Graduated in 2013 with a degree in math/econ (3.5 gpa) at an Ivy. I worked 1 year in a large pension fund as a FO/MO analyst. I had to end this gig because I ran out of work authorization after 1 year of OPT. I'm getting my work authorization back soon via a green card application with my family. Unfortunately I had to let a few top notch offers (AM/HF analyst) go because I can't go to them on time.
Since I'm off cycle now everything seems a bit tough. I'm in that weird limbo where I have 0-1 year of experience which is not substantial for anything. I used to be fixated on buyside research analyst roles but now I'm not that particular anymore. I'm looking at ER and Risk in BB but also I have started considering going into industry and do corp fin. However I'm still finding it difficult to apply to things since most things I find at my experience level are for seniors only.
Thought of just start cramming for GMAT and hopefully I can get some good scores by the time apps are due this year. I'm looking at the top MSF programs mentioned in the title and they actually have some decent placements -- and not just restricted to finance.
My question would be can anyone can comment on whether I should give these programs some serious thoughts or just network my ass off even harder? According to a lot of the threads I read a lot of people use these MSF programs to get access to a better network compared to their UG... since my network is pretty decent in the US, especially NY area, would these programs have any value added to my job searching? Plus, I'm also very interested in learning more about finance since most of my UG courses were math and macro/int'l econ stuff. I'm leaning towards Villanova's program since it's cheap and it teaches the CFA. Any thoughts?
Edit: Also if you are familiar with the admissions process, can you comment on my chances based on my background? Trying hard for a 700+ score
Math/Econ major from ivy with a yr of solid experience plus a 700+ g,at and you are a shoe-in at the schools u mentioned. Approach a 750 GMAT and MIT is possible
Don't look at it as an either/or situation. Do both. GMAT stays relevant for 5 years which sets up just perfect if you get a job and want to go to b-school after 2 2-year jobs. Apps will probably be a few hundred dollars but for your future and potential dollars at stake, it is worth it.
Those numbers should be competitive at most any school and if you apply early enough, you can probably get some money at some. And most of the jobs that you mention should be relatively easy to attain from an MSF from most of these places. Corp fin is broad but should be competitive with something like GE's program. ER is more of a crap shoot just because there aren't a ton of entry level jobs. Risk is probably more quant which plays into your background and maybe even look into the more quantitative programs.
If I were you, I'd recruit and get your apps out soon. Maybe even try to find entry level stuff through your old school. If that fails, some schools like CMC or Vandy apparently help with internship placement, but that would probably be the next important thing about getting an MSF.
You'll obviously learn finance in these programs. You'll learn more on the job but it definitely helps you to hit the ground running and gives you a more broader background. Not to mention, it will probably give you a taste of various jobs which should help in your job decision process.
Thanks for the well thought out answer. I'm going to be unemployed for a while a least so I figure I'd get the GMAT knocked out of the way.
Although many people have told me, like the way @wallstreet101 replied below that if I network my way into a couple internships I can squeeze into a FT position. This might take less time and cost much less than going back to school... So I guess I'm just going to gauge how desperate I would be. Either way having applied to grad school would be a good call option if things don't pan out
you are going to go to grad school and come out with the same job that you are able to get now if you would put your head down and focus.
I dont think an MSF is appropriate here. Just leverage your current network and try to find something, theres not much added value for you given your current resume. I went to a top program listed above and nobody graduated from a target or had impressive FT experience prior to matriculation, that should speak for itself.
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