What should I do? Applying to Quant Masters

[VBK]

Hey Everyone,

I'm extremely passionate about trading—particularly in rates and options—and I aspire to become a trader some day.
Some Background Info about me:
I'm currently a second year Economics Major and Data Science Minor at an EMEA University ( Top 2 In my country ). I have a 91/100 GPA.
My statistics and economics courses have pretty high grades unlike my 2 calculus courses that i finished with a 68 and a 75. ( we do not have any linear algebra courses available )
I have some experience working with python but i wont say im amazing at it.
I also work part time at a local bank as a risk analyst for OTC Derivatives.

Recently, I've been thinking about applying to a Quant Finance/ Financial Engineering program, but I am unsure whether i meet the requirements in order to do so.
I also plan to take the gmat in the following months.

Would it be better to pursue a traditional finance degree and break into trading that way, or should I push forward with the quant route and work on filling any gaps in my skill set?
I’d really appreciate any insights or advice.

 

[StrivingForCompetence]

just apply ig. Im just going to do applied math probably, going to get a good foundation with far transfer

 

[lifeisagamble]

Plenty of trading jobs don’t require being a quant so if you really love trading, you may be able to break in that way. Historically the BB banks only recruit from the best universities through S&T internships that would be your best bet imo. Quant trading is another story…

 

[VBK]

Plenty of trading jobs don’t require being a quant so if you really love trading, you may be able to break in that way. Historically the BB banks only recruit from the best universities through S&T internships that would be your best bet imo. Quant trading is another story…

Would you say a normal finance masters from a decent program in Europe is going to be enough to break into trading?
We don't have any S&T internships At BB in my country, we barely have any BB offices here at all. And the local trading scene is mostly made up of local banks and 1 or 2 small trading firms.

 

[lifeisagamble]

I only have understanding of the US market so this may not be applicable, but the BB here would recruit 90% from bachelors programs. Masters in finance is not as prominent here. If you have a very strong bachelors, then a masters is not needed, they will teach you what you need to know on the job.

I am not as familiar with the European system and how they sponsor work visa's from non-EU candidates for example. I take it you are looking to move to the EU from non-EU country? Perhaps then yes, getting a masters in Europe would be your best bet so you can network and interview while in school.

Feel free to DM me if you want to continue talking.

 

[Andy Nguyen]

The rule of thumb is to get into the top program in your targeted market if you want to have a decent shot.
Get in the top quant program you can in the US if you want to work here.
Same to UK, EU or anywhere else.
We are talking quant finance not trad/high finance that mostly recruit from targeted undergrads.