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SimbaJSK
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SimbaJSK, concurring with others, I would say that if Finance is your calling, your current trajectory will take you much further away, the longer you wait.

Here's a how to guide into M&A that may help.

So act on it now instead of expecting an MBA to magically take you there.
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SimbaJSK
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?

Hello SimbaJSK,

Thanks for writing in.

We quite agree with all the experts who have replied to you. A switch, though difficult, is not impossible. However, you need to make the attempt at the earliest. The more you wait, the tougher it will be.

Yes, the CFA is a good idea.

All the best!
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SimbaJSK
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

Two clear options here:
- Move to an investment management or research role in investments now. If you do not have too much experience, they may be willing to take you up based on your analytical skills. As far as MBA admissions go, yes, if you do make this change, you will need to wait for 1-2 years to be able to explain it fully for MBA admissions.
- Continue on the aerospace path now, do well on your MBA apps, get into a top program, and then look for avenues there. Over 70% of MBA graduates change function or industry after they graduate, so if you were to go to a top finance-strong school (e.g. NYU, Columbia, Wharton), there is always a chance of getting a role with an investment management firm. A CFA could certainly bolster your chances of doing well on this path.

Hope this helps. Feel free to come back with more queries as needed.