| Topic Name: |
Career Advice |
| Message Name: |
not quite entry level... |
| Date Posted: |
04/12/2006 |
| In Reply To: |
I have a somewhat unusual situation and I need some helpful advice.
I just dropped out of a doctoral degree in Industrial Engineering because I wanted a change in direction and have a Masters degrees in Economics from probably the best known institution in Europe. I have some previous work experience but never worked in any single place for more than a year- a consulting job in a developing country, a 3 month internship with an asset manager in Europe and some quantitative research positions. I'm thinking of a career in finance probably in equities/fixed income which really interests me. I have top 1% standardised test scores(GRE and SAT) and I think a solid quantitative background. My questions are
1. Can I do better than an entry level position?
2. Does my lack of a US degree and US work experience count against me? 3. I'm currently 28yrs old, does this matter at all?
4. Is it wise to mention the dropped PhD in my job applications.
Comments appreciated. |
| Message: |
I'm finishing a masters in economics, and I just passed the first CFA exam. I also have lots of computer skills relative to my peers.
When I went to look for jobs, I asked whether I should apply if the job requires "1-3 years" or "at least one year" of experience.
The response was generally: "Yes!" Unless the job description lists specific prerequisite experience(s) (e.g. "must have X years experience as a credit analyst in commercial lending"), the "1-3 years" requirement is typically just to insure a certain level of maturity and some basic skills (e.g. basic software, writing, presentation skills, etc.), skills that people typically learn during their first year on the job.
Be aware that big firms are typically less flexible than small firms. When big firms say "1-3 years," they often have to be firm (idiotic bureaucratic requirements, equally idiotic HR departments, etc.). With small firms, though, you should go ahead and apply if you think you can do the job.
Other than that, though, we're basically rookies--again.
Don't worry about age. Lot's of people who served in the military or the Peace Corps are in your category. Most people even appreciate the maturity.
At your level, leaving a Ph.D. program won't hurt you, but be careful as you progress in your career. If you leave work to pursue something and don't finish it, people will question your ability, judgement, and commitment.
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