Should I Accept a Non-Quant Role While Applying for Quant Jobs?

[surajrl]

Hi everyone,

I’m currently pursuing an MSc in Financial Mathematics in London and will graduate in September 2025. I’ve started applying for quant roles, but it’s been challenging. From what I’ve heard, it often takes a few months after graduating to land a role.

This summer, I did an internship with an engineering consultancy in Cambridge (near London so it is convenient) and received a return offer for a software engineering position (pay is not great but I did enjoy the internship and should be something "temporal"). The role isn’t related to quant or my MSc, but my plan is to accept it if I don’t secure a quant role before graduation. This way, I can focus more this year on learning and getting good grades in my MSc without the added pressure of being unemployed after I finish. While working, I’d continue applying for quant positions and preparing for interviews.

Does this seem like a reasonable approach? Some of my friends suggest focusing solely on job applications instead. Would appreciate your advice!

 

[Andy Nguyen]

What does this job entail? Does it involve using C++/Python/etc? Will it lead to a visa sponsorship?

 

[surajrl]

What does this job entail? Does it involve using C++/Python/etc? Will it lead to a visa sponsorship?

I will be able to get the settled status which allows me to work in the UK. And yes, most of the work they do is in Python or C++, they also have a big project where they are using Rust.

 

[Andy Nguyen]

Unless a better option comes along, there is worse thing than getting better at these skills.