Exploring finance Careers That Offer a Healthy Work-Life Balance

As a freshman studying Economics with a focus on finance at a non-target school, I initially found myself captivated by the prospect of a career in investment banking. After attending an information session hosted by my university’s investment banking club, my enthusiasm grew, and I eagerly participated in various events, convinced that a future in this field was my calling.

However, as time has passed, I’ve begun to reassess this ambition. The reality of 80-hour workweeks in the investment banking sector doesn’t align with my personal values. I place a high importance on my health and well-being, requiring a solid eight hours of sleep each night and committing to regular workouts six days a week. This routine is crucial for my overall happiness, and it has become increasingly clear that it may not coexist harmoniously with the demanding hours of a traditional investment banking career.

Given my background and interests, I am now on the lookout for alternative career paths within the finance domain that offer a more balanced lifestyle. While I have a strong inclination towards finance, I prefer to steer clear of Accounting. Additionally, I’m fascinated by Economics but recognize that most junior economist positions typically require a graduate degree, which complicates my immediate options in that area.

I am open to any suggestions or insights from those who may have navigated similar challenges. What finance-related careers might allow for a more manageable work-life balance? If you have recommendations or experiences to share, I would greatly appreciate your input!