What you need to know as a high school student who wants to pursue a career in investment banking or FinTech

As a high school student interested in pursuing a career in investment banking or FinTech (Financial Technology), there are several important steps and considerations to keep in mind to prepare for these fields:

1. Academic Preparation

• A Levels or Equivalent: Choose A Level subjects that are relevant to finance, economics, mathematics, and technology. These subjects will provide a strong foundation for your future studies and career.
  
• Strong Grades: Aim for high grades in your courses, especially in mathematics, economics, and science-related subjects.
  

2. Learn about the Industry

• Read Books and Articles: Start with introductory books on finance and technology to build your understanding of the industry. Follow financial news websites and tech blogs to stay updated.
  
• Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Khan Academy, and Udemy offer free or affordable courses on finance, economics, programming, and other related topics.
  

3. Develop Skills

• Mathematics: Invest time in strengthening your mathematical skills, particularly in algebra, calculus, statistics, and financial mathematics.
  
• Programming: Learn programming languages commonly used in finance and technology, such as Python, Java, or C++. Websites like Codecademy or freeCodeCamp offer beginner-friendly courses.
  
• Data Analysis: Familiarize yourself with tools and techniques used for data analysis, such as Excel, SQL, and data visualization libraries like Matplotlib or Tableau.
  

4. Gain Experience

• Internships: Seek out internships or work experience opportunities in finance or technology firms. This could be in roles like data entry, assistant positions, or even shadowing professionals.
• Extracurricular Activities: Join clubs or societies related to finance, economics, mathematics, or computer science. This demonstrates your interest and commitment.
  

5. Networking

• Attend Events: Attend finance seminars, tech conferences, or networking events to meet professionals in the industry. These connections can be valuable for future opportunities.
  
• LinkedIn: Create a LinkedIn profile and start connecting with professionals in investment banking and FinTech. It’s a great platform for networking and learning about career paths.
  

6. Consider Additional Certifications

• Financial Certifications: While not necessary at this stage, certifications like the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Financial Risk Manager (FRM) can boost your credentials later on.
  
• Coding Certificates: Consider taking coding bootcamps or online courses that offer certificates in programming languages or data analysis tools.
  

7. Research Universities and Courses

• Look into universities that offer strong finance, economics, or computer science programs. Some universities are known for their connections to the finance industry.
  
• Explore specific courses or majors related to investment banking, financial engineering, or FinTech.
  

8. Stay Informed

• Keep up with industry trends, news, and developments. Subscribe to financial publications, follow industry leaders on social media, and join relevant online communities.
  

9. Prepare for University Applications

• Ensure your A Level subjects align with the requirements of the universities and courses you’re interested in.
  
• Work on crafting a strong personal statement that highlights your interest in investment banking or FinTech, your relevant skills and experiences, and your career aspirations.
  

10. Be Persistent and Adaptable

• Both investment banking and FinTech are competitive fields. Stay persistent in pursuing your goals and be open to adapting your plans based on new opportunities and developments in the industry.
  

Starting early and building a solid foundation in mathematics, technology, and finance will greatly benefit your journey towards a career in investment banking or FinTech. It’s a dynamic and evolving industry, so being proactive in learning, gaining experience, and networking will set you on the right path.