Hello Ratika,

Much of the information you need is in the many comments that precede yours. However, I want to point out (as do you) that analysis is a mental process that can be deployed in many different domains. In your case, you already are well down the analysis pathway having done analysis as a computer programmer. While it may have only been slightly tangential to financial analysis, the skill set is very similar. This gives you an advantage over those who have never been paid to do analysis. Given your strong computer background and your familiarity with programming, I would think one way to make yourself a competitive candidate for a research analyst position is to begin to use your computing skills in your analysis. Specifically, you should be able to write programs that allow you to digest large amounts of data quickly. Alternatively, you may be able to systematize many analytical functions, such as data retrieval.

My other advice is the same as above for many others: 1/ Contact a local CFA Society (see www.cfainstitute.org for a list) and attend meetings. You want to meet someone that does what you want to do and see if they will mentor you through the process of improving your skill set; 2/ create research reports; 3/improve your knowledge; 4/ start investing personally to familiarize yourself with the emotions involved in investing.

Best wishes for success!

Jason