What steps should I take in high school if I want to pursue a career as an equity trader? Are there college majors or extracurriculars that would help me prepare for this path?
Starting early is always a great move! Equity trading is a fast-paced career where you buy and sell stocks on behalf of individuals or businesses, and therefore takes a strong foundation in finance and economics.
In high school, consider challenging yourself with advanced courses in economics, finance, or math to lay a strong foundation for college. Joining clubs with a focus on finance or business such as DECA or FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) can be a great way to gain some practical understanding of business principles.
When it comes to your choice of major in college, Business, Finance, and Economics are some of the disciplines that would provide you a strong base of knowledge to become an equity trader. These courses offer a deep understanding of financial markets and investment practices. Some colleges also offer more specific degrees like financial engineering or quantitative finance, which can also be relevant for a career in trading.
Internships in financial firms during your college summers will be of great importance. They will not only provide you a practical working knowledge of the industry but will also help you create a network of professionals in the field, which could be extremely beneficial for your future career.
Also, consider joining finance clubs in college or participating in investment or trading simulations. Many universities have investment clubs where students manage a portfolio of stocks, which can provide real-world experience.
Certifications such as the Series 7 and Series 63 are a requirement to be an equity trader. Keep in mind these can only be sponsored by a FINRA member firm, so usually, these exams are taken once you've secured a job in the field.
Remember, the path to becoming an equity trader is not a short one, so it is important to remain focused and dedicated throughout your journey. Best of luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.