S&T, preparing to work for a prop shop

<p>Hi,</p>

<p>I am finding that I have an interest to become a trader after I graduate college. I am currently a freshman (23) studying computer science as it is something I excel at due to my interest in computers from when I was 6 years old. I understand that this degree is considered a quantitative field, which might help.</p>

<p>Due to my age, and the fact that I will most likely be going to a west coast school such as UCLA, USC (maybe due to high cost) or UCSD, what should I be doing to prepare my self for trading? Here is what I am planning:</p>

<p>1) Thorough study on the stock market, and trading via professional trading courses in my fathers library, and books on the subject. </p>

<p>2) Opening a simulated trading account to get market exposure before investing personal capital. </p>

<p>3) Looking for internships.</p>

<p>I am looking to land a job at a prop shop after graduation. A friend of mine who graduated UCI (top 50, but definitely not Ivy) with a Comp Sci major was working at a prop shop in Chicago for two years and stated that his Comp Sci major was a plus in his interview. The prop shop doesn't have to be BB, but if I still have a chance (due to age and not being from an IVY League school), I would do whatever it takes to get there. Once I have a goal in mind, it is very rare that I don't achieve it. </p>

<p>Thank you in advance for your help.</p>

<p>More quantitative hedge funds love comp sci majors. So if you enjoy your major and complete it successfully, you will have marketable skills.</p>

<p>The main hurdle is whether these funds / shops come to your school to recruit. It’s great that you already know someone with a similar background to your’s. Be sure to do more research and reach out to places you’re interested in.</p>