"I really like economics and I'm studying it for my first time in school. I really enjoy it but I get mixed up with drawing graphs - something I know I'll have to do in an exam. I also get a little muddled sometimes when my teacher moves on too fast. I feel that I can do it, just maybe not at the same pace. I'd quite like to study it at University as I'm interested in working in the banking sector, is a BA enough or would I have to continue to postgrad level?"
asked by Shane
To enter the banking sector you don't need to have postgraduate qualifications. The 'banking' sector covers a large amount of jobs - anything from risk management to client services. What I recommend is that you have a look at what interests you (the Prospectus site has some very useful information on this).
Also, you can look into doing work experience, which is invaluable as it will either confirm or disprove your decision. Just try your local branch and see what they can offer you. Many large firms have schemes which offer students a taster of what working for them would be like.
I'm a little concerned that if you are struggling a lot with Economics now, continuing with it to undergraduate level might be too great a challenge. What I suggest is if you read through your textbook before and after class as well as looking over the graphs, drawing and re-drawing them, the ideas and concepts will become embedded. If you don't understand anything, ask. Over time you should begin to understand more about economics.
If you are still finding it a challenge, there are other ways of getting into banking. Most disciplines are accepted even though some sort of numerate skills are desirable (Prospects). So, you could try accounting and finance, business studies or an entirely different thread altogether- languages or philosophy.
So, look at your options, see what interests you and, from here, either work on understanding economics or look into other degrees, your time at University should be fun as well as challenging.
