Profile evaluation & seeking advise

[ELLIS FARLINN]

Hi guys,

I'm new here and really want some advise.

Background:
Top 35 university; GPA 3.9 (graduated)
Financial Eco major, Math minor (Calculus, Multidimensional Calculus, Linear Algebra & Differential Equations, Statistics, Probability)
Study abroad in Oxford for one term
Two finance related internships: Credit Analyst in a commercial bank, Equity Research in a small asset management firm in NYC
No GMAT score yet

I know this is not a solid quantitative background but I wonder whether there are any chances of getting into one of the MFE or MAMF programs.

I do not know much about the quantitative finance field and do not know whether or not I will like building models with programming languages (for many hours). I decided to apply for the MSF programs and wanted to pursue a career in finance or consulting (really broad), but at the same time, I think it would be better if I equip myself with solid quantitative skills. A graduate from a MFE program can work in the quantitative finance field and can also apply for other jobs in banks and consulting firms.

So, here are my questions:

Is this background sufficient for a MFE/MAMF program? (I will take the online C++ course and will take the GRE exam)

Given my weak math and programming background, will it be really difficult for me to finish a MFE program?

When it comes to job hunting, would it be a huge disadvantage if I do not possess sophisticated quantitative/programming skills as other MFE students do?

It seems that many MFE graduates will work as quantitative developers. How difficult it is to get a job in quantitative analysis/structuring/risk management? (especially in IBs)

Now I have little knowledge regarding the derivatives markets (all I know is from my finance courses). Any suggestions for me to get familiarized with the complex products and markets?

And the last question (sorry for so many questions), is the GRE verbal score important? I will take GMAT exam first and thus leave little time for preparing the GRE exam.

Thank you very much guys

 

[Andy Nguyen]

You should either take the GRE or GMAT, not both. GRE is universally accepted by MFE/Quant master programs. If you are not native speaker, GRE verbal/writing score, TOEFL and essay play an important role, specially for programs that don't do interview because they can only gauge your ability on paper.
You need a lot more math than that.
Programming is a big hole you need to fill as soon as possible. Take C++ and complete it prior to your application. It will give you way to know if you have the determination to sit down and solve technical problems by writing code. There is no way around it.

Read QuantNet guide. They contain a lot of information very important for applicants.