<p>Hey, I'm a rising senior (mathematics major) at Harvard who is interested in working as a quant after graduation. However my relevant work experience consists of a research program (REU) done after my freshman year (spent this past summer studying abroad). </p>
<p>Also my GPA is a 3.445 with a 3.6 major GPA. I also have relevant background in statistics and I'll be researching stochastic processes this year (thesis). Also I passed Exam P of the actuarial exams. My only problem is I lack a background in CS.</p>
<p>How competitive am I for quantitative analyst positions at firms such as Jane Street and related places? I can tackle most of the brainteasers they throw on interviews. Thanks!</p>
<p>Most Quants at big name firms want candidates with advance degrees, preferably a PHDs and strong programming skills. You will be competing with people who have PHDs in math/physics and finance work experience if you are applying to firms such as Jane Street.</p>
<p>It will be very unlikely for you get a tier 1 Quant position without knowing how to program.</p>
<p>Is there anything I can possibly do then? Other options that would be suitable for someone with quantitative abilities?</p>
<p>You can go get your masters/PhD or find a job in Finance to gain some experience. A lot of financial institutions love math majors. Go to your school career center and attend the career fairs.</p>
<p>finance, risk assessment, and all that is just number games really. A great route for a math major in my opinion. </p>
<p>knowing SAS will keep you ahead everyone else. useful statistical software for business</p>
<p>You need to take CS classes senior year. Take an into class first semester and an intermediate class (whatever class comes next in succession) second semester. You need to simultaneously apply to Masters in Financial Engineering programs – one year program and a good jump start toward the quant arena. You should be adequately prepared as a math major with two CS courses by the time you get there.</p>