From the time India has opened up its ecomony a decade back, opportunities in finance have become more interesting and challenging. With a huge gap in the demand and supply in the country, students who are still undecided about what they want to do after Class XII, can choose a career in this sector as it is a lucrative option says, Vani Bajaj
Knowledge is the beginning of all great things and the following shloka sums it up aptly.
Na chor haryam, na raaj haryam, na bhratra bhajyam na cha bharakaari, vyaye krate vardhate eva nityam, vidhya dhanam sarva dhan pradhanam
It means that the wealth that can’t be stolen, neither abducted by State, nor can be divided amongst brothers. Neither it is burdensome to carry. The wealth that increases by giving, that wealth is knowledge and is supreme of all possessions. The above shloka highlights the importance of gaining knowledge. It is only by using knowledge as a tool can one hope of building a successful career. After creating a good base in school one must start exploring various avenues, in high school itself.
The options available to students completing their Class XII are aplenty. With so many options and without proper guidance one can feel lost. Making the right choice depends on various factors ranging from the aptitude and interest of the candidate in a particular field, marks scored in the board exams, the financial condition, of his family etc. For a student interested in finance in particular, he must show an aptitude in subjects like math’s, accounts and economics to a certain level. The understanding of this, form the base for anyone wanting to pursue finance for further studies.
The scope for finance as a career is extremely promising. Since it forms the backbone of any industry, the key job opportunities are generated in this sector. As per recent surveys, a position in the finance sector has been rated as the top five most respectable jobs in the job markets both internationally as well as in India.
Taking the example of our Government, the importance of our Finance Minister is almost parallel to that of the Prime Minister. In simple terms knowledge in the field of finance can eventually put you in of the key positions of an organisation based on your performance.
In order to take the first step towards a career in finance one may opt for a bachelors degree in economics or commerce from a reputed university. The cut offs usually range from 90 per cent and above for a good college of a good university. Hence, the first goal should be to strive towards a good percentage in Board exams by focusing on the main subjects.
Enrolling oneself for a BBA programme with a specialisation in finance from a good private institute could also be an option for those who do not make the high cut offs of central universities. If the family income allows it one can think of applying abroad to good universities, the options being multiple in this case. The appropriate guidance may be sought through counselors for foreign education. Therefore, identifying the category that you would fit in much before the exams and results could prove crucial. Making this decision will have to be realistic and logical, not based on some hypothetical assumptions and dreams.
A logical decision made at the right time can help one focus on the strengths and work on the weaknesses. Getting into a good undergraduate programme will only be the beginning to the journey towards building a great career. It is usually seen that students forget to concentrate on their studies after getting into the college. This attitude may ruin all the efforts one may have put in to get a great start in the right direction. The scores in graduation are of high priority as most banks, research firms and KPO’s look at the Class XII results. So, it is important for students to maintain a focus on their studies to eventually be eligible for such high profile and well-paying jobs as mentioned above.
Having crossed the milestone of under graduation one has the option for opting for a placement or go for further studies. In the present scenario, the value of an undergraduate degree may not suffice in the long term. Students are getting picked up many MNC’s only to realise later that a post graduation is what will help them get ahead professionally. An MBA will obviously be the preferred candidate over someone who has done only bachelors unless they show great promise to the organisation which could be a one in a thousand case.
The next logical step is to look for a post graduate/MBA programme from a reputed university. Here the importance of preparing for entrance examinations like CAT, MAT, and XAT come into play. Aiming at getting a high score is the only way to get into a good college since most reputed Institutes only accept these scores. Again having a logical goal based on one’s aptitude will help one focus on the right path. Preparation for group discussions and personal interviews is also extremely important. One must present themselves as a complete package comprising of knowledge, confidence, and common sense, and will for continuous learning.
Having accomplished an entry, one must ensure proper dedication to the programme. This would be the final deciding factor in getting a good placement in a good organisation. Most colleges offer placements on campus. It is important that one opts for this and makes the most of the opportunities given.
To summarise, give it your 100 per cent and focus on the dreams and one shall build a great career in finance.
(The writer is chief mentor of International College of Financial Planning)