Think you need a finance degree to succeed in the financial industry? Think again. Many successful finance professionals started with degrees in fields like political science, anthropology, sociology, English, and even biology. Their stories demonstrate that diverse academic backgrounds can bring valuable perspectives and skills to the finance world.
From Political Science to Investment Management
Take Vasant, a Senior Investment Manager at a global investment firm. With undergraduate degrees in political science and American studies, his path to finance was anything but direct. "My career path wasn't a direct line. There was a lot of exploration and alternate careers before I ended up doing what I am doing currently," Vasant shares. He emphasizes that what matters most is your drive and willingness to learn: "What really matters more if you're looking for entry into this industry is hunger. So you need to show the ambition and the drive that you really want to be in this sector."
Anthropology and Sociology in Corporate Banking
Eric, now a Managing Director in Corporate & Investment Banking at Wells Fargo, studied anthropology and sociology. His non-traditional background hasn't held him back - in fact, it's helped him develop crucial client relationship skills.
"In my role, it's all about communication... Even when you're just talking about things, you're either building or degrading trust," Eric explains. His liberal arts background equipped him with the critical thinking and communication skills essential for success in banking.
Biology Meets Finance
Henry, now a Partner at Morado Ventures LLC, combined his studies in anthropology and sociology with a keen interest in technology. His advice for those worried about their non-finance background? "The biggest lesson is not to set limits for yourself," he shares. "Those limits are usually self-imposed. You might tell yourself, 'There's no way I can be hired at this tech company because I have a liberal arts degree'... [but] I had a Sociology degree and I got myself into some of the best tech companies around."
From Various Languages to Analytics
Nick, an Analytics Executive at a nationwide financial services company, studied Spanish and other languages alongside political science and American studies. His diverse academic background provided a unique perspective in approaching data and analysis. Rather than seeing his non-finance background as a limitation, he leveraged his diverse skill set to bring fresh perspectives to the field.
English Major to Institutional Finance
Mike, an Institutional Account Manager at Coinbase, majored in English before finding his way into finance through foreign exchange sales. His journey shows how strong communication skills from a humanities background can be invaluable in client-facing financial roles. "Creating and maintaining relationships is number one," he emphasizes, highlighting how his background in English has helped him excel in building and maintaining client relationships.
Key Takeaways for Non-Finance Majors
Focus on Transferable Skills: Critical thinking, communication, and analytical abilities are valuable across all fields.
Demonstrate Drive: Show ambition and willingness to learn the technical aspects of finance.
Leverage Your Unique Perspective: Your non-finance background can provide valuable insights and approaches to problem-solving.
Build Strong Networks: Relationships and networking are crucial for breaking into finance.
Remember Vasant's encouraging words: "When I was an undergrad, I always thought finance was something for people who were business majors or finance majors. I had no idea that somebody in social sciences or studying political science could enter this field."
Whether you're studying English, political science, biology, or any other non-finance major, remember that your unique background could be exactly what sets you apart in the financial industry. Success in finance isn't about where you started – it's about your willingness to learn, adapt, and bring your unique perspective to the table.
The finance industry needs diverse perspectives to thrive, and your non-traditional background might be exactly what gives you an edge. So don't let your major hold you back – the world of finance is more accessible than you might think!
Want to learn more about how your specific background could translate into a career path? Visit us at Advize for more insights from successful, relatable professionals sharing real information to help.
If you ever want to reach out for help, advice or networking, shoot us an email at hello@advizehub.com or message us on Slack!
Wishing you success,
Emily McSherry
Founder & CEO