Is a Mid-Level University Finance Degree Worth It?
The value of a finance degree from a mid-level university depends largely on how you approach your education and career goals. If you take the initiative to go beyond the curriculum, immerse yourself in the finance world, and actively build a career-focused network, you can greatly enhance the value of your degree.
Academic Pursuit Beyond the Classroom
Education is not just about attending lectures and reading textbooks. It is about actively seeking knowledge and understanding of finance. If you find that you need to learn more beyond what is taught in class, pursue those areas of interest. Whether it is through supplementary readings, online courses, or participating in financial clubs and organizations, the more you immerse yourself in finance, the more valuable your degree becomes.
Create a career-centered network by engaging with fellow students, professors, and professionals in the finance industry. This network can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job opportunities, even if you are not from an Ivy League institution. Networking is key to success in any career, and building relationships with peers and mentors can be invaluable.
Understanding Your Career Goals
One of the most critical aspects of pursuing a finance degree is clarifying your career aspirations. Depending on your goals, you might need to have a different set of skills and licenses. For instance, if you aspire to be a stockbroker, computer science might not be particularly relevant unless it is directly applicable to your role. The key is to understand what licenses you need and how to obtain them.
The easiest way to earn your licenses is to get employed by a company that will sponsor you and provide necessary resources, such as exam materials and study time. Having a degree in any business field from a semi-respectable university can be advantageous, as it often satisfies the educational requirements for these licenses.
The Power of LinkedIn
Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to build your professional network. Reaching out to alumni from a mid-level university who work in the financial sector can provide you with valuable insights and job opportunities. These connections can often help you secure a job even more than just having a strong resume. Take the initiative to reach out to alumni and ask about their career paths and experiences.
For example, there are instances where someone with a degree in a seemingly unrelated field, such as mathematics or computer science, has landed a position at a top financial firm. These success stories highlight the importance of passion and the ability to demonstrate your value added skills.
Alternative Academic Paths
Instead of pursuing a finance degree, you might consider a more versatile academic path that complements your interests in finance. An applied mathematics degree with courses in computer science and finance can be an excellent choice. Similarly, a degree in mathematics and economics with additional courses in finance and computer science can be beneficial. The combination of strong analytical skills with finance knowledge can make you stand out in the job market and provide a broader set of skills to tackle various financial challenges.
In conclusion, a mid-level university finance degree can be very valuable, but it depends on your dedication to learning, your career goals, and the networks you build. By actively pursuing knowledge, setting clear career objectives, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, you can significantly enhance the value of your degree and achieve your professional aspirations.