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I am a junior in math at a target school (one of MIT, Berkeley, CMU), but I have only recently settled on going for a position in quantitative finance (preferably researcher). I still want to do a math PhD but I was wondering if I should go for another direction. My primary interest in math right now is discrete mathematics/theoretical CS, both of which don't seem to be involve very relevant skillsets for quant. Except maybe they train you well for brainteasers, but doing a phd for brainteasers seem overkill. Are there any directions/programs that quant firms like to hire researchers from? I know that the competition for a phd program is much tougher than undergrad and I may not be a competitive candidate for the top math phd programs. Do firms still hire lower tier phds? I am open to suggestions of programs outside of the US as well.
Information about me: I have a good gpa but no good research currently, and I am trying to place decently on the Putnam, if that would help with grad school. I also have some high school recognitions like USAMO that helped me get into college but presumably won't help much with grad school.
Any advice appreciated.
Information about me: I have a good gpa but no good research currently, and I am trying to place decently on the Putnam, if that would help with grad school. I also have some high school recognitions like USAMO that helped me get into college but presumably won't help much with grad school.
Any advice appreciated.
