Law school or financial planner Forum

[tbird]

My situation is a choice between a top 25 regional with an 80% tuition scholarship, and a career as a financial advisor. I have an engineering degree and don't enjoy it, but have connections with a few ip firms as well as a few companies and their in house ip guys. I think there is a good chance I get a job doing prosecution post law school. The other option is a business connection that is a one man show and has an independent financial planning firm. I really trust the guy and would like to work for him. He is recruiting me strongly saying that he wants an apprentice and is looking for someone to sell the business to. His current income is over half a million per year so I think I could make more money with the planning, but wonder which career will be more enjoyable/challenging. I also think finance will give me a better family life and time with the kids, but worry that having no control over the market could drive me crazy. i see pros and cons to both. I am looking for constructive inputs and opinions. Thanks.

[20141023]

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[Lumieres]

law school will always be around. give the job a shot. if it doesn't work out, you'll know what to do.

[Danger Zone]

law school will always be around. give the job a shot. if it doesn't work out, you'll know what to do.

Agree with this, and just want to add: The most difficult part of being a financial planner is getting clients. If this guy wants to give you his book, you would be set for a long time with a steady check. Try it and see if it's something you'd like to do. If not, then you just walk away with a few years of solid work and life experience.

[Tiago Splitter]

Being a financial planner is really no different than being a used car salesman. If that's your thing then sure, give it a shot, but it's not about managing money. And this guy isn't going to hand over his book of business to a newbie for nothing, so don't expect to skip any steps.

[Danger Zone]

Being a financial planner is really no different than being a used car salesman. If that's your thing then sure, give it a shot, but it's not about managing money. And this guy isn't going to hand over his book of business to a newbie for nothing, so don't expect to skip any steps.

Classic case of "fake it til you make it" bro.

[guano]

I'll second that being a financial planner is all sales. If you like sales, great. If not, don't do it.
Obligatory viewing: Glengary Glen Ross

[glebe]

I'll second that being a financial planner is all sales. If you like sales, great. If not, don't do it.
Obligatory viewing: Glengary Glen Ross

Yeah, if OP enjoys the prospect of pushing annuities on every person that walks through the door, being a financial planner/advisor might be right up their alley. I worked in a similar position a few years back and, while it wasn't for me, some people seem to catch a real buzz from closing a sale. OP should also recognize that being a financial planner is not the same as "working in finance".

[TheBiggerMediocre]

This has been my part time job the past few years. I have netted enough cash to put me through law school, assuming I get 70% off.