I haven’t done too much specific research into specifically comp sci vs finance vs et al. While I’ll eventually have to, I’m not yet at the point in my life when I have to choose between those options. So I can’t give any firm advice rooted in experience.
But I don’t see why we can’t approach it like any other decision problem. Figure out what specific factors you want to maximize. You seem to have done that qualitatively, but try to refine it more and quantify it. Money is important, of course, but I infer that “the most efficient way to convert math ability into money” is a fake utility function. Working to maximize a fake utility function won’t be optimal. So first off, your real values are very important information.
Once your goals are well defined, get a list of five to ten of your best options. For each option, research and construct a plan of how you would go about maximizing those values. For example, let’s talk about the finance route. Look at stats from the US labor department about the professions. How much would you likely make in a year? Is that enough for what you want? Also look at the investments you’d have to make in order to work in finance. You need finance credentials (such as a CFA) and licensing from the state. The CFA is pretty hard to get, and takes three years. You’d likely also have to move to a large city. Does that gel with your preferences about where to live? The answers to all of these questions (and many more) are also important information. After you evaluate all the plans, make a choice and go for it.
I realize this is all basic 101 decision theory, not some real insight on my behalf. But often times when faced with a big decision, I’ve found it very useful to review the basics. Helps me break it down into manageable bits. If you’d care to, I’d be happy to get on Skype and chat with you in more detail. Personally, I sometimes find it easier to work through these problems verbally. Easier to have a rapport and throw ideas around.
I haven’t done too much specific research into specifically comp sci vs finance vs et al. While I’ll eventually have to, I’m not yet at the point in my life when I have to choose between those options. So I can’t give any firm advice rooted in experience.
But I don’t see why we can’t approach it like any other decision problem. Figure out what specific factors you want to maximize. You seem to have done that qualitatively, but try to refine it more and quantify it. Money is important, of course, but I infer that “the most efficient way to convert math ability into money” is a fake utility function. Working to maximize a fake utility function won’t be optimal. So first off, your real values are very important information.
Once your goals are well defined, get a list of five to ten of your best options. For each option, research and construct a plan of how you would go about maximizing those values. For example, let’s talk about the finance route. Look at stats from the US labor department about the professions. How much would you likely make in a year? Is that enough for what you want? Also look at the investments you’d have to make in order to work in finance. You need finance credentials (such as a CFA) and licensing from the state. The CFA is pretty hard to get, and takes three years. You’d likely also have to move to a large city. Does that gel with your preferences about where to live? The answers to all of these questions (and many more) are also important information. After you evaluate all the plans, make a choice and go for it.
I realize this is all basic 101 decision theory, not some real insight on my behalf. But often times when faced with a big decision, I’ve found it very useful to review the basics. Helps me break it down into manageable bits. If you’d care to, I’d be happy to get on Skype and chat with you in more detail. Personally, I sometimes find it easier to work through these problems verbally. Easier to have a rapport and throw ideas around.