SimbaJSK wrote:
Hello,
I am looking to pursue an MBA to eventually work in the investment management industry, but I am not sure how I can structure my experiences for the next coming years before I apply to MBA programs. My profile/background is as follows:
Age: 22
Ethnicity: Asian (Chinese, Korean, Japanese)
Area of Study: Majored in Mechanical Engineering and Minored in Finance
School: Top 10 U.S. University (not known for engineering)
GMAT: 740
Experience: 100% in the aerospace industry (internships)
Post-Graduation Job: Engineer at Fortune 100 Aerospace Engineering Firm
Interests: Hedge Funds, Private Equity, Investment Banking
From reading many of the articles on GMAT Club, it does not seem that my story seems plausible from going from a purely engineering background into the finance/investment management industry. My plan was to recruit while I work, possibly working/volunteering for institutions that are willing to give me finance related jobs, but I am not sure whether this is plausible or even desirable for MBA admission.
What are the best ways for me to increase my chances of admission into the M7 from my current position, then eventually into the investment management industry?
Would a CFA or other financial certification help?
Hi SimbaJSK,
Can you be a bit more specific in what types of jobs appeal to you in the sector? Are you interested in working for a hedge fund and doing fundamental analysis, going into investment banking, or working for a larger manager like Fidelity or Blackrock?
If you are truly interested in pivoting careers, you should search for entry level positions at funds and investment managers. I would keep this list fairly broad and include both large and small firms. Getting your foot in the door is the importnat thing. You can also look into investment banking - very easy to move to a hedge fund after 2 years as an analyst at most reputable shops.
The other path would be to continue working for another year or so and then apply to business school, but the options will be limited to investment banking and more of a sales role within investment management. Going to the buyside without prior experience is quite difficult, even from the top schools in the country. Most shops will require some sort of banking experience, and you'll find the skills you acquire as an investment banking analyst (or associate) will translate well to a role with a hedge fund.
If you're truly interested in finance my advice would be to seek those roles now while you are pre-MBA. It may be a downgrade salary-wise from what you are currently making (if you choose a role with a small fund) but your earnings potential down the line could be much greater. Let me know if you have any more questions!
Regards,
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17 Apr 2019, 11:26
