I have formally decided I will not be taking the L2 exam in June. I've talked thru this before but I don't see the need to take the next step until I actually have a job in finance. It would take me 4 years to get the charter anyway so taking this year off to focus on the job search and also to enjoy my life a little more is in order and won't affect my overall schedule to obtain the charter. Ive been going hard for 2.5 years between the MBA/MSF and the CFA L1 exam. I deserve some well deserved peace and quiet for a year.
I also won't be taking the CAIA exam. I decided to take the Wall St Prep course and increase my modelling skills. I'm also looking into the IBI training. Can find out more here. I think the skills obtained by focusing on this would add more value than passing L2 at this point.
I also won't be taking the CAIA exam. I decided to take the Wall St Prep course and increase my modelling skills. I'm also looking into the IBI training. Can find out more here. I think the skills obtained by focusing on this would add more value than passing L2 at this point.
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12 comments for this post
I'm curious to know what field of finance do you plan to specialize in?
Seems like a sensible decision.. all the best for your job-hunting ;)
Will be looking forward for your secret sauce post..
I'm curious to hear what factors were involved in making your decisions. I work for the CAIA Association & am not looking to change your mind - just wondering what's most important to anyone exploring their options.
I usually only get to talk to those who opt in, so your perspective would be really valuable.
Encuero - beggars cant be choosers in this market so I'm really just trying to get in where I can fit in. I've always been fascinated with Risk Management however. I think going forward that skill will be in ghigh demand given the current climate.
E2M_OC - it all comes down to added value at this point. If I wind up working with Alternative Investments, I'll definitely pursue the CAIA charter. I just don't feel it would add much to me at this point with no real experience to speak of. This year is really to focus on the career switch and once I'm in I'll decide what letters to chase.
Have you looked into the 'FRM' designation? Its all about risk-management. My neighbor used to be a risk-manager at some wall street firm and he said the designation is helpful to have. Check it out if haven't already.
I'm curious to know, from what career are you making a transition from? I'm also in that boat. I took the CFA to help me transition from real estate into finance.
I'm coming from IT so no direct finance experience to speak of. I'm sure I can easily transition but the question is whether someone will take the chance on me and whether I can swallow the inevitable paycut. FRM is another designation that helps only if you're actually doing that type of work, otherwise you won't get much benefit from it. It's definitely on my radar though.
That IBI thing... it's really super! Too bad that they don't have an online class T_T
There is a lack of competent financial professionals in Florida. I think you would do well finding a job given your skills. I know what you mean about a pay-cut. Have you thought about forming your own fund instead of working for someone else?
I've considered it, but I wouldn't even know where to begin. I'd like to have some corporate experience under my belt before I strike out on my own anyway. I also dont know if I'm built for the fundraising part of running other people's money.
Hey Jim,Just reached your blog through google. Wow, good job you have done here!
So have you started the wall street prep or iib training or not. Please let us know of yourexperience in this regard~:)
Hey,
I just sat in on the CFA Lvl 1 June exam and getting ready to start studying for the CAIA Level 1.
I've never heard of IBI. Def post some experience feedback if you decided to do it.
Btw, Im in the same boat. I currently work in IT and I'm trying to switch into the investment world. It is def tough to get some call backs (Ive been looking for about 4months). Good luck with the job search!
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