Quote from Chelsea_FC:
You don't need to be a math or CS major to get a job at a HF or Prop firm, it is certainly a path, but not the only one. I would recommend studying some Math and CS, but a major is not a requirement unless it is HFT or purely algorithmic.
Quote from Chelsea_FC:
The second assertion is misleading. If you want a job at a legitimate prop firm (Jane Street, Optiver, SIG, Spot, Wolverine, etc), aka not chop shop, you're going to need a college education. It's not always so, but in general you can tell whether the firm is legitimate by the features at the junior level:
1. It does not require you to commit capital
2. It pays a salary
Quote from Chelsea_FC:
You're confusing my arguments, I was speaking about HFs and quantitative degrees. Most HFs do not require mathematics/CS background.
On the other hand, yes quantitative backgrounds are well suited for Prop Firms (engineering, math, CS, etc). Although I can tell you from firsthand experience they will look at any applicant, including finance and economics majors.
If he goes to a target school, then an arcade shop shouldn't even be a consideration. Focus should be on: Legit Prop Firms, HFs & S&T at Banks.
Quote from Chelsea_FC:
Most times, the degree is not nearly as important as the connections.