In the past, adults often asked children a familiar question: What do you want to be when you grow up? The expected answers were usually doctor or engineer. In earlier generations, becoming a civil servant and securing a stable, predictable life was also a common aspiration.
Today, my advice to young people about choosing a field of study is slightly different. Beyond traditional professional disciplines such as medicine, engineering, or architecture, I strongly encourage them to study mathematics based on their abilities and interests. The reason is simple. Mathematics provides flexibility. Those who build a strong foundation in mathematics can later move into almost any field they choose.
Mathematics sits at the core of many of today’s most in demand professions, including software development, engineering, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and finance. The digital economy is built on analytical thinking, modeling, and problem solving. These competencies are deeply rooted in mathematical literacy.
For many years, while teaching finance courses to third and fourth year university students, I have been asked the same question: What kind of career path would you recommend?
My answer has evolved over time. There were periods when management consulting was highly attractive. At other times, banking was the preferred path. Today, I consistently advise students to pursue careers that are closely integrated with technology. This could mean working within a financial institution, joining a fintech company, or eventually launching their own technology driven venture.
Digital transformation is no longer limited to financial services. Every aspect of modern life is becoming data driven and technology enabled. Young professionals should not remain observers of this transformation. They should position themselves at the center of it, contributing to innovation rather than simply adapting to change.
When I was asked as a child what I wanted to become when I grew up, my answer was a train driver. In hindsight, perhaps that reflected a desire to move forward and lead the direction of travel. For today’s young generation, the important question is not only what they want to become, but how prepared they are to shape the future they will live in.
Author: Dr. Selim Seval, Chairman of the Board
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