This week, we asked our readers:
What do you wish you knew before you attended or graduated from college?
We chose this answer for you to read — a unique perspective from Ryan Jackson, a Wall Streeter in New York City who currently works at Citi.
From Ryan, ICG Client Analytics Statistician at Citi:
“I wish I knew what major I should have chosen instead of which major I wanted. The difference is that the former is based on job prospects and skills to get there, whereas the latter focuses on interest. If I were to go back in time, I would look at what jobs I would potentially like to do (and that pay well), then research skill requirements, then pick the major and school that would best train me in those areas. Not to mention, your location matters so much in recruiting: tech in NorCal, finance in NY etc. Lastly, I would tell myself to take as many classes as I can in any area of interest. College is the best time to learn.
The saying “hindsight is always 20/20” couldn’t ring truer. I’ll give you a little background on my experience that will explain why my viewpoint is different. Early on in college, I knew I wanted to get into the financial industry.
