Northwestern Engineer by education, Scientist by Occupation, Next: Investment Banking? Help!?

I recently graduated from Northwestern University with my masters in chemical engineering. I was sought out by many companies, so one company gave me a really good job in Chicago. I thought, wonderful. I get paid more than most people do, I advanced from the associate level to scientist level immediately. And now, I'm bored. I can handle the job, but I'm bored.

I've always wanted to work in Investment banking, but my parents always discouraged me. Is it too late? Will an investment bank ever look at me twice? I'm an engineer... nothing more. I know that Goldman-Sachs offers training - will that work?

I'm pretty scatter-brained at the moment, so I hope someone can help me. For now, I'm content with my job and in a couple more weeks I get my bonus (but I don't think I deserve it as I don't really enjoy my job anymore).

You're still young. If you don't have a family to care for, or other obligations besides student loan repayments, then you're in a good spot to make a change right now.

I can relate to you: I have a computer science degree, but have considered investing as a profession. Employers questioned me, but I gave them some concrete examples showing my passion for working with people and my interest in the field (books I've read, work I've done). In the end I stuck with computer science since that's where my degree led me, but more on this in a paragraph...

lady_b_luck phrased it as "no need to ... lose all that you gained as an engineer". On the contrary, you would be developing a different part of yourself, becoming well-balanced in knowledge, wisdom, and life experience. What does your gut tell you to do? According to some recent research, you should go with your gut when you have to make difficult decisions.

On a final note, I just quit my job as a software engineer. In fact, I had to pause answering this question for the exit-interview. I will be starting my own business, where I believe more of my needs will be met than at the cubical.

Wish you the best. By some chance that you should remember to, please email me how it turned out if you decide to make the change.

Sounds more like you are stuck in a rut. Just try another form of engineering or switch jobs that will offer more. No need to do a complete turn and lose all that you gained as an engineer.

One approach might to become a financial analyst for your industry. For example, Goldman-Saches might hire someone who has industry knowledge of a particular engineering sector as their financial analyst. Because this person who is familiar with the industry would have background knowledge that are not apparent to general analyst.

Depending on your age (sadly to say it is true), investment banks might be willing to hire and train you, be on one of their rotation programs. Be prepared for a pay cut, and some cold callings.

Another approach is to self-education to make yourself more employable. For example, if you are fairly self-motivated and analytical then you can study and hopefully pass Series 6,7,65 or 66 exams. That will indicate to potential hiring firms that you have some basic knowledge of the industry and wouldn't be a high risk hire.

Best wishes.

You can always be bored. Go get an MBA and follow your dream!!!!! If you find that Boring, find another dream and follow that one.

Do me a favor, read the book "Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill. You will have the answer to this question and a new dedication to your life. (In my opinion, this answer is a gift to you, do not ignore it!!!)

I know investment bankers in Chicago, Milwaukee and New York. They are always looking for smart, qualified people.