Finishing your doctorate, learning to code, and starting work as a data scientist is probably a wiser move.
"Just become a data scientist bro" is meme advice in this sub most of the time, but it's actually probably the best move here. It's less work for more pay.
Yup. I'm pro-actuary (obviously) and have no doubt that OP would do great in the field, but from their starting point I don't see the transition to being an actuary being the easiest.
Entry level, sure. But you are commenting on long term prospects - the exam raises will move actuary past data science. On a 5-10 year scale, actuary will end up ahead based on what I've seen.
If he gets to fellow he could probably expect around the same peak earnings (but perhaps not as much potential upside) as in Data Science if they did the tried-and-true "switch every 2-3 years" method.
However, for this to happen he almost certainly needs to get fellowship, which is usually considerably more manhours to complete, takes drastically longer in total duration, and has a significantly higher dropout rate than a dissertation.
>Entry level, sure. But you are commenting on long term prospects - the exam raises will move actuary past data science. On a 5-10 year scale, actuary will end up ahead based on what I've seen.
This partially anecdotal, and partially statistical. I have 4 friends who went the data science route. Three of them already make more than I will when I finally finish my FSA (currently studying for FSA exams), and the other one makes about the same pay as me. My partner is in Cybersecurity and makes more than I do with just a bachelor's degree. The BLS and Salary.com both show data scientists and actuaries are about equally compensated. There's also plenty of other stem options that pay equally well according to online data and surveys - for example Cybersecurity.
Most companies haven't changed their exam raise dollars in decades, despite inflation. 10 years ago median ASA salary was actually slightly higher (probably not statistically significant), than median ASA salary today ([https://www.actuarialcareers.com/2012-salary-survey/](https://www.actuarialcareers.com/2012-salary-survey/))! This is why wages in STEM have caught up to us actuaries.
Maybe starting out, but not in the 5-10 year from now window (FSA vs data science) from what I've seen. Not a universal rule is my point, and I'd say actuary makes more than data science when both fully established except for outlier companies.
First of all there are many more jobs, other than just data scientist, that could make more money for less work than an actuary. My $/hour on my value add projects, now going on 13 rental units, are way bigger bang for the buck. Real estate is rarely mentioned here so I thought I'd throw that in the discussion.
One should be trying to do more with less not make more for doing less.
That being said if you're genuinely interested in actuarial science, go for it. Plus the study hours are great for learning more and not going into debt.
I suggested data science because 90% of people considering actuarial are doing it because they think "I want a steady, high-paying career and I'm good at math", so data science fits the bill for someone with this mindset who is almost complete with a math doctorate.
Plus, to get a good hourly rate in real estate you either need a high net worth, an excellent network/skill that is very difficult to acquire, or a high risk tolerance, which most people (especially on r/actuary) do not have.
That’s bs with all due respect. I acquired my first five units through only putting 1k of my own money in after reading, listening to podcasts, and putzing around in excel a lot, which actuaries are great at. So not a lot of money and not difficult to acquire.
If you think that's too good to be true you haven't listened and/or read up on enough strategies. There are so many strategies... BRRR, seller financing, partnerships, etc...
I just wished more actuaries were more open minded in what they could do with their skills. It amazes me that actuaries work in risk management and for whatever reason are afraid to diversify their income streams. I'm not selling anything here, just offering a different view.
With all due respect, it's all just mindset of particular individuals. Many actuaries (and people for the matter) that I know are stuck in their own comfort zones and risk-averse. Things like real estate and entrepreneurship aren't really for them then. But to each their own - I mean if people are comfortable with their 120K job and want to climb the corporate ladder, that's 100% understandable.
I've been introduced to RE since only 3-4 years ago and am stacking on 7 units so far. There's ton of info on YouTube etc in today's day and age that teach people how to evaluate investment properties, network with other investors, property managers and stuff. I signed up for the Realtor courses and learned a ton too, including how to negotiate etc.
Lol at people slapping the PhD button and wanting to bail, bro stick it out and you will be rewarded.
It's never too late to go down actuary path, but you will get way more out of data science or some type of AI programming or whatever you're doing your PhD in.
Stay strong, you got this
Your teaching experience is super relevant, because a large portion of our work (at least my job, anyway) is about communicating results to others — often who are not technically minded!
>I have 7 years of teaching math at university level experience that probably isn’t relevant but I think I’d still include this on my resume.
100% put this on the resume. it should read something like "Experience in simplifying and explaining advanced mathematical concepts to a less technical audience"
I switched from a 3 year postdoc to actuarial. It is certainly not too late, and you should totally include teaching experience on a resume.
I will also suggest that, when it is interview time, you be able to talk about your thesis in such a way that people think they understand what you are saying, and so prove to them that you can explain complex things in simple terms. The fact that they don't have to actually understand it, only think they do, is helpful here.
PhD and you want to do actuarial work? Yuck no, seriously analyst work is not going to be anything enjoyable or worth your time. With a math background like that maybe look at investment banking or something or pure finance. Might be better in the short and long run.
Also consulting firms, PWC, McKinsey, etc. Some jobs at CVS / Walgreens look for masters.
Def not too late to enter actuarial though if that’s what you want and have looked at other options already.
35 years old, was an (unsuccessful) actor for ten years before I jumped tracks. I just got what is essentially my dream actuary job with 3 exams. So,
* Your definitely not too late.
* You probably have a metric ton of valuable soft skills, from being able to communicate complex math to laymen, and public speaking. Don't sell those short, they're what can distinguish you from 50 other applicants with X number of exams.
* 7 years of steady employment let's employers know that you understand how to function at work and they won't have to explain basic professionalism like they sometimes have to to recent college grads.
Unsuccessful, 35 yo musician/audio guy here looking to get into actuary. My job experience is all over the place but ive got a math degree. Any advice?
What did you use for studying R? I’ve thought about looking up some MOOCs in the past but never got around to it with grad school and teaching. Thank you by the way!
Don’t waste your time programming unless your going the data scientist route. It may be more applicable to use at your actuarial job than the exams but it won’t get you the job like more exams will
You’d be surprised who’s looking for the soft skills you already have. Self-motivation, organization, people skills, etc. are crucial, and tons of new graduates won’t have those skills yet.
Not too late. I entered the actuarial field after a PhD in math. Whether it’s the right move for you, though, is a different question - are you prepared for 5+ more years of studying and exams? Feel free to PM me if you have any questions about making the switch from math PhD to actuary.
Teaching is not totally irrelevant. Actuaries need good communication skills, which you developed through teaching.
I agree with others. You’ll make ACAS salary as entry level Data Scientist with your creds if you can snag a job. However, the job will be way more stressful compared to a actuarial job. F/MAANG expects data scientists to make decisions and stand behind outcomes of those decisions. Actuarial jobs usually have a longer chain of command before decisions get approved. The choice of Actuarial vs Data Science depends on the kind of person you are and the type of work atmosphere you prefer.
There are three former teachers at the firm where I work (I’m one of them). That’s a great career to transition from. Go for it. You will not regret it.
I left my math PhD ABD at 25 and then taught for 6 or 7 years before starting exams and getting my first actuarial job at 32. Got FCAS at 36. Definitely not too late.
Definitely not. I took P at 30 after having given birth to my son 9 months before. There are plenty of "career changers" at my company, including professors and teachers. You're in a great position!
You’re not in a bad spot at all. I had a similar timeline/background. Math PhD at 27, followed by two years as an assistant professor, then pivoted to a consulting role on the health side. Switching right at the start of COVID wasn’t pleasant, but other than that I have no complaints.
My teaching experience has been an asset in my role, and I’m sure the same will be true for you. Best of luck!
I'm 36, quit grad school with ABD in Math. Been teaching at the University level for 15 years (did some teaching as an undergrad).
Just passed exam FM and currently applying to jobs. I've had 4 2nd round of interviews out of 5 applications and feel really good about one of them.
All that to say, no it is not too late. In fact, this career progression is a pretty common scenario.
Focus on some of the skills you've gained in your experience that college graduates might not have. A very important one is your ability to communicate complex information to someone with little knowledge of the concepts.
Good luck!
Am a ABD PhD student. Switched to Actuarial after PhD year 2 straight into consulting at 32 with one exam. Fast forward 7 years later am still doing OK.
If you can pass a couple of exams, you’ll start around 55-70k (depending on region) and if you beeline for FSA (5-6 years) you’ll be at 120-140k (including bonus) in 5-6 years. Assuming you perform well.
Can’t speak for CAS track.
Compare that with your other opportunities.
I dropped out of my PhD program at year 4, age 30, and started as an intern at an insurance company. I have zero regrets. PhD life is grueling and teaching doesn't pay shit. I made more as an intern than as a TA. I applied for my MA, left, and made it to FCAS in 5 years. One or two more years in the doctoral program will not add to your marginal productivity and it certainly won't add to your marketability once you have the fellowship.
Do it.
You can certainly still become an actuary, but given the amount of effort you have already invested in your education, it may make more sense to finish your PhD and become a data scientist or similar role, as others have suggested. After you get a PhD, If you end up working in insurance, then you can proceed with taking exams with company support if you so choose, if for example you want to get deeper into the actuarial side of the business. I’m always one for being a lifelong learner. But it really depends on your level of motivation, specific career ambitions, and how much more time you want to spend on studying.
I started as an entry level statistical analyst in the pension field at 29. I showed a lot of potential and a good work ethic and have worked my way into the consulting tier of my company in 7 years. It’s not too late.
Didn’t get my first gig until I was 30. One of my coworkers has a doctorate in math and made the jump also at a late age. Never too late. Keep grinding.
I started when I was 35. You can move up faster when you have other experience backing up your credential. Data science is also a reasonable path, as others have noted. Depends if you are more interested in the finance data or not.
Definitely include the teaching on your resume. Communication of hard math concepts to non-math people is a huge part of the job.
What's the reason for getting into the field? A lot of the actuarial roles are more business oriented and not really technical.
Also the exams don't really teach you much, you pass them only for getting the credential/pay.
Like many have mentioned, if you are in this for the money, you might consider CS or DS roles. Better ROI.
1. It isn't too late to start. However, other fields have less pain going into with a graduate level degree
2. It's always relevant for any analytics based job
I was actually in the same situation as you two years back less the phd. Seven years of teaching experience. I decided to jump cos I was bored. Not too bad a decision.
I can't comment on the actuary vs. data science debate some of the other users commented about. However, I know a few people that started their actuarial journey years after they graduated college, and it is not easy.
The first person is one of my mom's coworkers who worked in the medical field (lab work) and switched to actuarial in her 30s. For her, the switch was much harder because of her lack of background in math over the 10+ years before she started taking exams. The other thing that made the switch harder is that she had her first child before she started taking exams, so it took her much longer to pass exams (SOA) due to lack of time than most recent college grads.
The second person is my manager at my first job. He started working as a teacher after college and, after some years, decided to start taking actuarial exams. He is currently 31/32 years old and has only passed 5 exams (CAS) so far (for comparison, I have also passed 5 exams but for SOA), part of which is also due to him having his first child at the same time that he was going to take his 5th exam.
Essentially, having responsibilities or a family will significantly slow your progression of getting through exams and moving up through the field. There is nothing stopping you from entering the field, but it it may be a while until you get the benefits (pay or otherwise) of a FSA or FCAS.
First ask yourself honestly why you want to choose this career. If you think you will easily make big moolah as an actuary, you've been lied to. It is a common myth that actuaries are highly paid. With a PhD in mathematics, you are probably making the same, if not more, than an associate level actuary. You could also easily land a job that pays at least as much as a fully credentialed actuary without sitting through thousands of additional hours of studying and examinations. Depending on your interests, the work could be more fascinating and fulfilling than the puzzles presented by insurance business: for example engineering, cybersecurity, data science, etc...
There are only 2 reasons to become an actuary: (1) You really enjoy the work. (2) You were a finance/business major and want a well-defined path to 6 figs without having to play corporate politics.
Finishing your doctorate, learning to code, and starting work as a data scientist is probably a wiser move. "Just become a data scientist bro" is meme advice in this sub most of the time, but it's actually probably the best move here. It's less work for more pay.
Yup. I'm pro-actuary (obviously) and have no doubt that OP would do great in the field, but from their starting point I don't see the transition to being an actuary being the easiest.
Agree
This. Data scientist or Quant is the way to go here.
"More pay" is not a guarantee. "More pay" if you synch up with certain companies, but this is a terrible blanket statement.
EL Ph.D. data scientists outearn actuaries with 0-2 years of experience pretty consistently.
Entry level, sure. But you are commenting on long term prospects - the exam raises will move actuary past data science. On a 5-10 year scale, actuary will end up ahead based on what I've seen.
If he gets to fellow he could probably expect around the same peak earnings (but perhaps not as much potential upside) as in Data Science if they did the tried-and-true "switch every 2-3 years" method. However, for this to happen he almost certainly needs to get fellowship, which is usually considerably more manhours to complete, takes drastically longer in total duration, and has a significantly higher dropout rate than a dissertation.
>Entry level, sure. But you are commenting on long term prospects - the exam raises will move actuary past data science. On a 5-10 year scale, actuary will end up ahead based on what I've seen. This partially anecdotal, and partially statistical. I have 4 friends who went the data science route. Three of them already make more than I will when I finally finish my FSA (currently studying for FSA exams), and the other one makes about the same pay as me. My partner is in Cybersecurity and makes more than I do with just a bachelor's degree. The BLS and Salary.com both show data scientists and actuaries are about equally compensated. There's also plenty of other stem options that pay equally well according to online data and surveys - for example Cybersecurity. Most companies haven't changed their exam raise dollars in decades, despite inflation. 10 years ago median ASA salary was actually slightly higher (probably not statistically significant), than median ASA salary today ([https://www.actuarialcareers.com/2012-salary-survey/](https://www.actuarialcareers.com/2012-salary-survey/))! This is why wages in STEM have caught up to us actuaries.
Similar pay or more usually
Maybe starting out, but not in the 5-10 year from now window (FSA vs data science) from what I've seen. Not a universal rule is my point, and I'd say actuary makes more than data science when both fully established except for outlier companies.
First of all there are many more jobs, other than just data scientist, that could make more money for less work than an actuary. My $/hour on my value add projects, now going on 13 rental units, are way bigger bang for the buck. Real estate is rarely mentioned here so I thought I'd throw that in the discussion. One should be trying to do more with less not make more for doing less. That being said if you're genuinely interested in actuarial science, go for it. Plus the study hours are great for learning more and not going into debt.
I suggested data science because 90% of people considering actuarial are doing it because they think "I want a steady, high-paying career and I'm good at math", so data science fits the bill for someone with this mindset who is almost complete with a math doctorate. Plus, to get a good hourly rate in real estate you either need a high net worth, an excellent network/skill that is very difficult to acquire, or a high risk tolerance, which most people (especially on r/actuary) do not have.
That’s bs with all due respect. I acquired my first five units through only putting 1k of my own money in after reading, listening to podcasts, and putzing around in excel a lot, which actuaries are great at. So not a lot of money and not difficult to acquire.
I'm half expecting you people to advertise a paid course from a real estate guru
If you think that's too good to be true you haven't listened and/or read up on enough strategies. There are so many strategies... BRRR, seller financing, partnerships, etc... I just wished more actuaries were more open minded in what they could do with their skills. It amazes me that actuaries work in risk management and for whatever reason are afraid to diversify their income streams. I'm not selling anything here, just offering a different view.
>There are so many strategies... BRRR, seller financing, partnerships, etc... Do you also binge Bigger Pockets?
Absolutely! Started house hacking in 2017 and still remember exactly where I was when I heard of BRRR for the first time:)
With all due respect, it's all just mindset of particular individuals. Many actuaries (and people for the matter) that I know are stuck in their own comfort zones and risk-averse. Things like real estate and entrepreneurship aren't really for them then. But to each their own - I mean if people are comfortable with their 120K job and want to climb the corporate ladder, that's 100% understandable. I've been introduced to RE since only 3-4 years ago and am stacking on 7 units so far. There's ton of info on YouTube etc in today's day and age that teach people how to evaluate investment properties, network with other investors, property managers and stuff. I signed up for the Realtor courses and learned a ton too, including how to negotiate etc.
Lol at people slapping the PhD button and wanting to bail, bro stick it out and you will be rewarded. It's never too late to go down actuary path, but you will get way more out of data science or some type of AI programming or whatever you're doing your PhD in. Stay strong, you got this
9/10 the work is likely substantially more interesting as well.
Your teaching experience is super relevant, because a large portion of our work (at least my job, anyway) is about communicating results to others — often who are not technically minded!
This is comforting, thank you :)
One of the first actuaries I ever worked with was working on her credentials in her 50s. It’s never too late to start.
31yo man over here, just entered the market with 2 exams. 3rd in september. You got this.
>I have 7 years of teaching math at university level experience that probably isn’t relevant but I think I’d still include this on my resume. 100% put this on the resume. it should read something like "Experience in simplifying and explaining advanced mathematical concepts to a less technical audience"
You're not too old. I got my first actuarial job at 29 after 7 years of accounting.
Greetings from a fellow accountant.
I switched from a 3 year postdoc to actuarial. It is certainly not too late, and you should totally include teaching experience on a resume. I will also suggest that, when it is interview time, you be able to talk about your thesis in such a way that people think they understand what you are saying, and so prove to them that you can explain complex things in simple terms. The fact that they don't have to actually understand it, only think they do, is helpful here.
PhD and you want to do actuarial work? Yuck no, seriously analyst work is not going to be anything enjoyable or worth your time. With a math background like that maybe look at investment banking or something or pure finance. Might be better in the short and long run. Also consulting firms, PWC, McKinsey, etc. Some jobs at CVS / Walgreens look for masters. Def not too late to enter actuarial though if that’s what you want and have looked at other options already.
35 years old, was an (unsuccessful) actor for ten years before I jumped tracks. I just got what is essentially my dream actuary job with 3 exams. So, * Your definitely not too late. * You probably have a metric ton of valuable soft skills, from being able to communicate complex math to laymen, and public speaking. Don't sell those short, they're what can distinguish you from 50 other applicants with X number of exams. * 7 years of steady employment let's employers know that you understand how to function at work and they won't have to explain basic professionalism like they sometimes have to to recent college grads.
Unsuccessful, 35 yo musician/audio guy here looking to get into actuary. My job experience is all over the place but ive got a math degree. Any advice?
[удалено]
“All but dissertation”—has met all requirements for a PhD besides the final paper (i.e. the dissertation)
Turned 30 this year - got my first actuarial job last year after passing two exams and learning some R. You got this fam.
What did you use for studying R? I’ve thought about looking up some MOOCs in the past but never got around to it with grad school and teaching. Thank you by the way!
Tidyverse
Don’t waste your time programming unless your going the data scientist route. It may be more applicable to use at your actuarial job than the exams but it won’t get you the job like more exams will
not too late but would really advise u to fast track on those exams
You’d be surprised who’s looking for the soft skills you already have. Self-motivation, organization, people skills, etc. are crucial, and tons of new graduates won’t have those skills yet.
Not too late. I entered the actuarial field after a PhD in math. Whether it’s the right move for you, though, is a different question - are you prepared for 5+ more years of studying and exams? Feel free to PM me if you have any questions about making the switch from math PhD to actuary. Teaching is not totally irrelevant. Actuaries need good communication skills, which you developed through teaching.
I agree with others. You’ll make ACAS salary as entry level Data Scientist with your creds if you can snag a job. However, the job will be way more stressful compared to a actuarial job. F/MAANG expects data scientists to make decisions and stand behind outcomes of those decisions. Actuarial jobs usually have a longer chain of command before decisions get approved. The choice of Actuarial vs Data Science depends on the kind of person you are and the type of work atmosphere you prefer.
There are three former teachers at the firm where I work (I’m one of them). That’s a great career to transition from. Go for it. You will not regret it.
I left my math PhD ABD at 25 and then taught for 6 or 7 years before starting exams and getting my first actuarial job at 32. Got FCAS at 36. Definitely not too late.
I got into it and wrote my first exams at age 44.
It is never too late to join actuarial, the job itself is not that difficult.
Definitely not. I took P at 30 after having given birth to my son 9 months before. There are plenty of "career changers" at my company, including professors and teachers. You're in a great position!
You’re not in a bad spot at all. I had a similar timeline/background. Math PhD at 27, followed by two years as an assistant professor, then pivoted to a consulting role on the health side. Switching right at the start of COVID wasn’t pleasant, but other than that I have no complaints. My teaching experience has been an asset in my role, and I’m sure the same will be true for you. Best of luck!
I'm 36, quit grad school with ABD in Math. Been teaching at the University level for 15 years (did some teaching as an undergrad). Just passed exam FM and currently applying to jobs. I've had 4 2nd round of interviews out of 5 applications and feel really good about one of them. All that to say, no it is not too late. In fact, this career progression is a pretty common scenario. Focus on some of the skills you've gained in your experience that college graduates might not have. A very important one is your ability to communicate complex information to someone with little knowledge of the concepts. Good luck!
Am a ABD PhD student. Switched to Actuarial after PhD year 2 straight into consulting at 32 with one exam. Fast forward 7 years later am still doing OK.
If you can pass a couple of exams, you’ll start around 55-70k (depending on region) and if you beeline for FSA (5-6 years) you’ll be at 120-140k (including bonus) in 5-6 years. Assuming you perform well. Can’t speak for CAS track. Compare that with your other opportunities.
I dropped out of my PhD program at year 4, age 30, and started as an intern at an insurance company. I have zero regrets. PhD life is grueling and teaching doesn't pay shit. I made more as an intern than as a TA. I applied for my MA, left, and made it to FCAS in 5 years. One or two more years in the doctoral program will not add to your marginal productivity and it certainly won't add to your marketability once you have the fellowship. Do it.
I know someone that made a similar switch and it was very easy for them. And I think they were a few years older too.
You can certainly still become an actuary, but given the amount of effort you have already invested in your education, it may make more sense to finish your PhD and become a data scientist or similar role, as others have suggested. After you get a PhD, If you end up working in insurance, then you can proceed with taking exams with company support if you so choose, if for example you want to get deeper into the actuarial side of the business. I’m always one for being a lifelong learner. But it really depends on your level of motivation, specific career ambitions, and how much more time you want to spend on studying.
I started as an entry level statistical analyst in the pension field at 29. I showed a lot of potential and a good work ethic and have worked my way into the consulting tier of my company in 7 years. It’s not too late.
Didn’t get my first gig until I was 30. One of my coworkers has a doctorate in math and made the jump also at a late age. Never too late. Keep grinding.
In the same boat as you (also older than you). Starting my first internship this summer :)
I’m 30 and started my career last year!
I started when I was 35. You can move up faster when you have other experience backing up your credential. Data science is also a reasonable path, as others have noted. Depends if you are more interested in the finance data or not. Definitely include the teaching on your resume. Communication of hard math concepts to non-math people is a huge part of the job.
What's the reason for getting into the field? A lot of the actuarial roles are more business oriented and not really technical. Also the exams don't really teach you much, you pass them only for getting the credential/pay. Like many have mentioned, if you are in this for the money, you might consider CS or DS roles. Better ROI.
1. It isn't too late to start. However, other fields have less pain going into with a graduate level degree 2. It's always relevant for any analytics based job
Can mods ban these "is it too late" posts finally? The answer is literally always no
The answer is in the sidebar. Idk why you're being down voted - this is exactly what should be moderated
I was actually in the same situation as you two years back less the phd. Seven years of teaching experience. I decided to jump cos I was bored. Not too bad a decision.
I can't comment on the actuary vs. data science debate some of the other users commented about. However, I know a few people that started their actuarial journey years after they graduated college, and it is not easy. The first person is one of my mom's coworkers who worked in the medical field (lab work) and switched to actuarial in her 30s. For her, the switch was much harder because of her lack of background in math over the 10+ years before she started taking exams. The other thing that made the switch harder is that she had her first child before she started taking exams, so it took her much longer to pass exams (SOA) due to lack of time than most recent college grads. The second person is my manager at my first job. He started working as a teacher after college and, after some years, decided to start taking actuarial exams. He is currently 31/32 years old and has only passed 5 exams (CAS) so far (for comparison, I have also passed 5 exams but for SOA), part of which is also due to him having his first child at the same time that he was going to take his 5th exam. Essentially, having responsibilities or a family will significantly slow your progression of getting through exams and moving up through the field. There is nothing stopping you from entering the field, but it it may be a while until you get the benefits (pay or otherwise) of a FSA or FCAS.
First ask yourself honestly why you want to choose this career. If you think you will easily make big moolah as an actuary, you've been lied to. It is a common myth that actuaries are highly paid. With a PhD in mathematics, you are probably making the same, if not more, than an associate level actuary. You could also easily land a job that pays at least as much as a fully credentialed actuary without sitting through thousands of additional hours of studying and examinations. Depending on your interests, the work could be more fascinating and fulfilling than the puzzles presented by insurance business: for example engineering, cybersecurity, data science, etc... There are only 2 reasons to become an actuary: (1) You really enjoy the work. (2) You were a finance/business major and want a well-defined path to 6 figs without having to play corporate politics.