Help for finance work experience

I have finished year 12 but I changed my interest in university from engineering to finance, but I have done no work experience, does anyone have any tips for finance/investment banking work experience that would help me for universities etc?

Reply 1

Hina yaqoob

Original post by Hussain_07

Transitioning from engineering to finance is a significant change, but there are several steps you can take to gain relevant work experience and enhance your university application:

1. **Online Courses and Certifications:**
- Enroll in online courses on platforms like Coursera, edX, or Udemy. Look for courses in finance, accounting, and investment banking.
- Consider certifications like Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level 1, or Financial Modeling and Valuation Analyst (FMVA).

2. **Internships:**
- Apply for internships at financial institutions, banks, or investment firms. Even if the roles are entry-level, they provide valuable experience.
- Look for internship programs specifically designed for students with little to no experience.

3. **Networking:**
- Attend finance-related events, webinars, and seminars. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the field.
- Join finance clubs or societies at your school or local community.

4. **Volunteering:**
- Volunteer for non-profit organizations or community groups that manage budgets or require financial planning assistance.
- Offer to help local businesses or startups with basic financial tasks.

5. **Reading and Research:**
- Stay updated on the latest trends and news in finance by reading financial newspapers, magazines, and blogs.
- Books like "The Intelligent Investor" by Benjamin Graham and "Principles" by Ray Dalio can provide a solid foundation.

6. **Simulated Experience:**
- Use stock market simulators to practice trading and investment strategies without risking real money.
- Participate in finance-related competitions or case study challenges.

7. **Part-Time Work:**
- Seek part-time jobs in finance-related roles, such as bookkeeping, accounting assistance, or customer service at a bank.

8. **University Resources:**
- Many universities offer resources and guidance for students looking to switch fields. Reach out to academic advisors for personalized advice.

By taking these steps, you'll be able to build a strong foundation in finance and improve your chances of success in your university applications.