| Topic Name: |
college student seeks help |
| Message Name: |
Depends... |
| Date Posted: |
03/21/2001 |
| In Reply To: |
I am currently a junior at Morehouse college majoring in economics. A lot of investment banks visit my school.I am very interested in the financial markets(preferably sales and trading). Unfortunately, my gpa is not tops(<3.0). However, I have a lot of relevant experience. I have worked for a company called Netbank(worlds largest internet bank) for 1.5yrs(27k working only 25hrs.a week). I also started my own computer online business called PCMAX Technologies.(we specialize in computer sales,web designs,etc.business is very successful)I also landed an internship with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network for the summer as financial representative intern. (i had two other offers from investment banks in califorina fimat usa and dallas southwest securities).I am really trying to get into sales and trading. I plan to land another internship next spring for a broker than plan on working on some trading floor in the summer. I have read the Series 7 and plan on buying a lot of books in trading.What are my chances? |
| Message: |
It depends on a couple other factors. I am also a student who will soon be graduating and I have had my share of interviews, and the way I have seen it break down is like this.
1. If you are looking for sales and trading at a top dog I-Bank it could be real tough getting your foot in the door without a connection. From what I have seen is that if you don't have a 3.5 and up your resume is out the door.
2. But, if you are looking for trading and are possibly interested in derivatives then GPA does not matter as much. It is more if you fit the role of a trader, ie. VERY Strong Math and Statistical skills, athletic background, quick thinker and problem solver. Here you can find lower tier firms who will overlook GPA and focus on your Experience, Activities and most of all Stats, Probability and Math skills, which are just as good and pay just as well as big I-Banks
3. Your computer skills are a huge plus since trading floors are very close to getting rid of the traditional open out cry system and going electronic. So they want people with IT knowledge.
4. So, if trading derivatives is something of interest to you bang away at your math and stats skills and try to get some experience with options trading.
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