to take or not to take the CFA?

<p>I am a recent graduate with my BS in Business Management. I am trying so hard to get into the investment industry. It is not turning out to be easy. I am probably going to go back to school for my Finance degree (only 5 classes away). For those that have taken or know someone that has taken the CFA do think it is worth while to just shot for the CFA instead of the degree.
I took some investment classes, but I would be learning most of the material for the first time. I mean is it realistic to think that I could study hard and pass the tests. It is even hard for people that have been in the industry for a long time.
And if I fail that is a lot of money to be throwing away.</p>

<p>The designation will look good if you want to enter investment management. It really depends on what you want to do. Do you want to be a money/portfolio manager? Then try taking Level 1 and see what you think. If you want to go into sales, you'd be better off with a Series 7 license.</p>

<p>As I research more I think sales does not go into enough depth for me. Portfolio manager seems more interesting to me. I have had a couple interviews to be a financial advisor, but investment strategies don't seem to be part of the job. What type of field are you familiar with.</p>

<p>You need a sponser to get the Series 7 license right? Is there a practical way around this?</p>

<p>you need a sponsor for the series 7 not the CFA</p>