Advice for Cornell Freshman Wannabe Quant

[CornellWannabeQuant]

Hello all,

I am currently a Freshman in Cornell's College of Engineering who is looking for advice on trying to break into quant. All advice is appreciated even if the advice is that my chances are so low that I shouldn't even try.

About me:
I have a genuine interest in applied math and utilizing and developing algorithms to perform certain tasks. Although one reason I would want to break into quant is for the money, I have a genuine interest in the backbone of the field.

I currently have a 3.9 GPA and am planning to double major in CS + ORIE. So far, the only relevant coursework I have taken is multivariable calculus, linear algebra, number theory, and OOP and data structures.

I am primarily looking for advice on what classes to take in addition to what books I should read to maximize my chances of being prepared for quant interviews as well as the job itself. (If a current or former Cornell undergrad can let me know of what specific classes I should take that would be much appreciated). In addition, I see that a bunch of math classes are useful in becoming quant; however this may not fit in my schedule if I am going to be a CS + ORIE double major, is it better to just ditch the ORIE major or is double-majoring impressive for recruiters?

Thanks for the help

 

[Andy Nguyen]

Do one thing well is better than half-a** a bunch of stuff. Pick your core strength (either math or CS) and maximize your knowledge there.
As far as CS knowledge is concerned, most quant programs will only require you to know C++ or Python really well. That said, it will be your meal ticket to get in via internship, interviews, etc.
A lot of MFE applicants don't invest time on strengthen their programming ability so this is where you can compete with them.
Take all the relevant math courses. You will have to figure out how to fit them in your schedule. Drop ORIE if you can.
There is nothing wrong with picking a job that pays more. Just be mindful of where you can fit in the system and make sure you bring the skills that employers want.
This means reading, learning about the industry everyday. Talk to your seniors and people who are in the industry.
Best of luck and I'll hope to see you around here for the next few years.

 

[CornellWannabeQuant]

Thanks for the advice! Would you say double-majoring is impressive though and would maybe get me more attention? If so I could just take more courses per semester

 

[kombuchalover]

Thanks for the advice! Would you say souble-majoring is impressive though and would maybe get me more attention? If so I could just take more courses per semester

Tbh I think you’re better off picking one relevant major and getting as good of a gpa as possible. Challenging yourself further has limited benefit and lots of associated risk. gpa, school brand names, and relevant work experience impress recruiters. Double majors don’t impress anyone tbh. Better to focus your extra time on career development instead of taking more loosely associated coursework. That being said, undergrad is also about having fun so try to find time for that as well