Jason,

First of all, thank you so much for the wonderful content in this article! Its very motivating and inspiring to be hearing first hand about what ER Analysis really pertains to.

I was hoping you could offer some individualized advice for me in my pursuits on beginning a career in ER analysis. I recently graduated (less than 1 year ago) from a mid-tier school with an Economics degree and am currently working in wealth management as a financial adviser at one of the major banks. I have a strong passion for investing, but as I get more immersed in the securities business I am realizing that being a broker isn't my goal - it is in equity research in an analysis position.

In order to improve my chances and strengthen my resume I have registered to sit for the CFA Level 1 exam. I also plan on taking many online courses to familiarize myself with Excel and other programs used in financial modeling. Additionally, I realize wealth management is unrelated to the work required of an analyst, but would the experience within financial markets at least help in some fashion?

My "idea" is that once I pass the first CFA exam I will gain an understanding in some areas of Finance and Accounting that employers are looking for which I lack due to my degree in Economics. Ultimately, I am hoping that my experience in financial planning as a broker combined with (at a minimum) a CFA Level 1 designation at the time I begin applying could be sufficient to be given an opportunity as a junior analyst.

Could you possibly lend me any advice? My fear is investing so much time into the CFA to come to the conclusion that my resume isn't strong enough to land a position. Thank you so much in advance for any help you can give me.

Thanks again,
Carter