What career path should I take to become a quant trader in New York?

I'm a high school junior interested in finance and I'm considering a career as a quant trader. What steps should I take in college to prepare for this role, especially if I want to work in New York?

Becoming a quantitative trader requires a mix of strong mathematical and computing skills, coupled with a foundational understanding of finance. Here are some recommended steps for preparation:

1. Study a Quantitative Discipline: As a prospective undergrad student, consider majoring in a quantitative discipline such as Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Financial Engineering, or a related field. This will help you develop your mathematical and analytical skills.

2. Take Relevant Courses: Within your major, look for courses that build a strong understanding of probability, statistics, calculus, and linear algebra. You might also want to seek out classes that cover data analysis techniques, algorithms, machine learning, and stochastic calculus. All these can be particularly helpful for a career in quantitative trading.

3. Brush up on Programming Skills: Mastery of programming languages such as Python, C++, MATLAB, or R is typically required for quant roles. Coding will allow you to develop, backtest, and implement trading strategies effectively. So, take coding classes alongside your math classes, or learn coding languages via self-study.

4. Understand the Finance: While the technique is important, a base-level understanding of financial concepts is equally critical. If possible, take some finance courses to understand financial markets, investment strategies, portfolio management, and financial derivatives.

5. Internships: Apply for internships at trading firms, investment banks, or hedge funds, ideally in New York, as early as the summer after your first year in college. Real-world experience is invaluable when it comes to landing a full-time job later.

6. Stay Current: Constantly familiarize yourself with financial markets and investment trends. Read about financial markets and economic news regularly, and consider joining finance clubs or groups at your school to learn from and network with peers pursuing similar careers.

New York is one of the world's financial centers, making it a great place for aspiring traders. However, be prepared for a highly competitive environment and long working hours. Moreover, keep in mind that entry into this field can be challenging, and it may require patience and perseverance. But if you're passionate about it and ready to put in the work, it can be a rewarding career with significant potential for growth.