If you’ve decided that this career seems like the right fit for you, you can get started working toward it right away, even if you’re still in high school. Talk to your guidance counselor about adjusting your course load to suit your career goals. There are a variety of courses you can take to prepare for your future plans.
Some of the most helpful courses include mathematics, particularly statistics and pre-calculus. If your high school offers any economics or finance classes, these would be a good fit as well. You might also consider taking classes in computer applications, marketing, business law and entrepreneurship, if available.
If you’re still in high school, you should consider looking for relevant after-school jobs and internships. For instance, you might find an entry-level position or internship at a real estate agency, car dealership, investment firm or sales agency.
As you approach your graduation date, it’s time to start thinking about your college applications. You’ll want to choose a university that boasts a strong business and management college, with degrees in areas such as finance, accounting and economics. Your finance-related degree program will teach you the fundamental skills you’ll need to become a loan officer, although it’s also a good idea to explore internship opportunities.
After graduating, you may need to obtain a license and you might choose to pursue an additional certification. Even if you do decide to pursue a certification, you may be able to land your first job before completing the certification requirements. You can expect a period of on-the-job training when you first get your foot in the door of this profession.