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How can I start a career in the blockchain sector after studying finance?
I love finance and the investment sector. Also, I love technology like artificial intelligence and blockchain, so I would like to work in finance-related work that is also related to artificial intelligence and blockchain.
4 answers
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Shaffaq’s Answer
Hey!
I am a computer science second-year student and I recently did a group project in which I used an EVM blockchain to store user data. I would suggest starting like that as well. Try to create a simply web-app and replace your normal database with an EVM blockchain perhaps. By doing this, you'll learn a lot about how to deploy smart contracts onto a blockchain to make it functionable for your use.
And of course, you can add AI elements within your web-app that enhance the blockchain functionality as well.
I am a computer science second-year student and I recently did a group project in which I used an EVM blockchain to store user data. I would suggest starting like that as well. Try to create a simply web-app and replace your normal database with an EVM blockchain perhaps. By doing this, you'll learn a lot about how to deploy smart contracts onto a blockchain to make it functionable for your use.
And of course, you can add AI elements within your web-app that enhance the blockchain functionality as well.
Thanks for your encouragement!
Carlos
Updated
Haoxiao Irene’s Answer
Hi Carlos, this is great question and happy to help you brainstorm a bit. There are a few ways you can approach:
- Consulting: Management consulting can be a great way to get exposure to a wide range of topics, including blockchain industry. Usually at a consulting firm, you will be asked to work on solving problems for different industries and push to learn things in a very fast pace, including overall market landscape, key players as well as detailed use cases. Most consulting firms now have blockchain related engagements that you can get yourself into.
- Native Web3 companies: This is relatively hard as the native Web3 firms are relatively small and would look for more experienced professionals. That said, there are still opportunities to potentially do some internship or start from really entry-level work.
- Bigger financial institutions that have Web3 initiative: A lot of large financial institutions such as Goldman, JPMC, Citi all have pretty mature blockchain initiative ongoing that you can potentially approach given your background in finance.
- School projects: Assuming if you are still in school, I would suggest also look for school clubs that have blockchain or tech focused initiatives (or crate one if there isn't!). That would be a safe environment to find ppl who share similar interests and find potential out-campus opportunities to work on.
- Consulting: Management consulting can be a great way to get exposure to a wide range of topics, including blockchain industry. Usually at a consulting firm, you will be asked to work on solving problems for different industries and push to learn things in a very fast pace, including overall market landscape, key players as well as detailed use cases. Most consulting firms now have blockchain related engagements that you can get yourself into.
- Native Web3 companies: This is relatively hard as the native Web3 firms are relatively small and would look for more experienced professionals. That said, there are still opportunities to potentially do some internship or start from really entry-level work.
- Bigger financial institutions that have Web3 initiative: A lot of large financial institutions such as Goldman, JPMC, Citi all have pretty mature blockchain initiative ongoing that you can potentially approach given your background in finance.
- School projects: Assuming if you are still in school, I would suggest also look for school clubs that have blockchain or tech focused initiatives (or crate one if there isn't!). That would be a safe environment to find ppl who share similar interests and find potential out-campus opportunities to work on.
Updated
Biju’s Answer
Starting a career in the blockchain sector with a background in finance can be a powerful combination. Blockchain technology is reshaping financial services, offering numerous opportunities to bridge your finance knowledge with this emerging field.
While your finance background gives you an advantage, understanding blockchain technology is crucial. You can start by learning the basics of how blockchain works, its use cases, and the various platforms (e.g., Ethereum, Bitcoin). Blockchain is disrupting various sectors, but a few niches stand out for those with a finance background such as Decentralized Finance, Cryptocurrency Markets, Tokenization of Assets etc. Based on your interest, start with with projects like creating simple smart contracts, analyzing cryptocurrency markets, or researching financial applications of blockchain.
While your finance background gives you an advantage, understanding blockchain technology is crucial. You can start by learning the basics of how blockchain works, its use cases, and the various platforms (e.g., Ethereum, Bitcoin). Blockchain is disrupting various sectors, but a few niches stand out for those with a finance background such as Decentralized Finance, Cryptocurrency Markets, Tokenization of Assets etc. Based on your interest, start with with projects like creating simple smart contracts, analyzing cryptocurrency markets, or researching financial applications of blockchain.
Updated
Angella’s Answer
Artificial intelligence (AI) will give you a competitive edge. Consider learning programming languages commonly used in blockchain development, such as Solidity, and gaining proficiency in AI technologies, such as machine learning and natural language processing.
Participate in blockchain communities: Engage with the blockchain community by joining forums, attending meetups, and participating in online communities. Networking with professionals already working in the field can provide valuable insights, mentorship opportunities, and potential job leads.
Explore blockchain-focused courses and certifications: Consider enrolling in online courses or programs that specifically focus on blockchain technology and its applications. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer courses on blockchain development, cryptocurrency, and blockchain for business. Additionally, industry-recognized certifications such as Certified Blockchain Professional (CBP) or Certified Ethereum Developer (CED) can enhance your credentials.
Build practical experience: Apply your knowledge by undertaking practical projects related to blockchain. You can participate in hackathons, build decentralized applications (dApps), or contribute to open-source blockchain projects. Building a portfolio of hands-on projects will demonstrate your skills and passion to potential employers.
Stay updated with industry trends: The blockchain sector is rapidly evolving. Stay up to date with the latest industry news, emerging technologies, regulatory developments, and market trends. This will help you remain competitive and identify new opportunities as they arise.
Seek job opportunities in blockchain: Look for entry-level positions or internships in companies operating in the blockchain sector. Startups, blockchain development firms, cryptocurrency exchanges, blockchain consulting firms, and financial institutions with blockchain initiatives are potential employers. Leverage online job portals, industry-specific platforms, and professional networks to discover relevant opportunities.
Continuously learn and adapt: The blockchain sector is dynamic, so it's crucial to stay curious and continue learning. As you gain experience, explore specialized areas within the blockchain field, such as blockchain analytics, smart contract auditing, or regulatory compliance. Upskilling and adapting to the evolving needs of the industry will help you progress in your career.
Remember that breaking into any industry may require persistence and patience. Building a career in the blockchain sector might involve starting in a junior role or working on smaller projects initially. As you gain experience and develop your skills, you can gradually transition into more senior positions and work on larger-scale blockchain initiatives.
Participate in blockchain communities: Engage with the blockchain community by joining forums, attending meetups, and participating in online communities. Networking with professionals already working in the field can provide valuable insights, mentorship opportunities, and potential job leads.
Explore blockchain-focused courses and certifications: Consider enrolling in online courses or programs that specifically focus on blockchain technology and its applications. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer courses on blockchain development, cryptocurrency, and blockchain for business. Additionally, industry-recognized certifications such as Certified Blockchain Professional (CBP) or Certified Ethereum Developer (CED) can enhance your credentials.
Build practical experience: Apply your knowledge by undertaking practical projects related to blockchain. You can participate in hackathons, build decentralized applications (dApps), or contribute to open-source blockchain projects. Building a portfolio of hands-on projects will demonstrate your skills and passion to potential employers.
Stay updated with industry trends: The blockchain sector is rapidly evolving. Stay up to date with the latest industry news, emerging technologies, regulatory developments, and market trends. This will help you remain competitive and identify new opportunities as they arise.
Seek job opportunities in blockchain: Look for entry-level positions or internships in companies operating in the blockchain sector. Startups, blockchain development firms, cryptocurrency exchanges, blockchain consulting firms, and financial institutions with blockchain initiatives are potential employers. Leverage online job portals, industry-specific platforms, and professional networks to discover relevant opportunities.
Continuously learn and adapt: The blockchain sector is dynamic, so it's crucial to stay curious and continue learning. As you gain experience, explore specialized areas within the blockchain field, such as blockchain analytics, smart contract auditing, or regulatory compliance. Upskilling and adapting to the evolving needs of the industry will help you progress in your career.
Remember that breaking into any industry may require persistence and patience. Building a career in the blockchain sector might involve starting in a junior role or working on smaller projects initially. As you gain experience and develop your skills, you can gradually transition into more senior positions and work on larger-scale blockchain initiatives.
Thanks for the help.
Carlos
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