I am a London-based quant. At the moment, I'm still in the job market though guardedly optimistic that this may change soon. I would like to give talks to school students about quant careers. Not for any payment or anything -- I just think it would be a rewarding experience. Any suggestions as to how to get invited to give such a presentation?CommodityQuant

I taught high school maths before becoming a quant (in the independent sector), and we were always keen on getting people in to give talks about interesting stuff. You could just pick some schools and email them to get contact details for the head of Maths or head or careers, and get in touch that way.You ought to think about what you're aiming to convey. Giving school pupils advice on quant careers is probably not a great idea - your target audience will be tiny. Talking to sixth form Maths classes about how Maths is applied to financial problems would probably generate more interest. If you do get invited to give any talks, check what level of Maths the pupils understand. We had lots of talks where a speaker pitched things at much too high a level.Whether you get invited might also depend on your experience. If you are currently looking for your first quant job, you might have difficulty convincing people to let you talk as you won't have any real experience of your topic. If you're between jobs and have some experience, it will be easier. If you're very experienced you could try offering your services to universities. The place I studied has a scheme where alumni in particular industries can come back and give talks - it's arranged via the careers service.

most quant work is rubbish and mindless - I suggest you keep away from schools! (unless you belong to the small minority that do not do rubbish and miondless quant work!)

Harvesting a few souls? Don't forget to dry them out before storage.

I'd suggest trying the Centre for Mathematical Sciences or the Judge Business School at Cambridge University. I've seen a few finance talks aimed at students at CMS (e.g. a few guys interested in Trading System development from Man a few years ago). I think there are only a couple a year (if that) so it may not be so expedient, but it is a very hospitable, beautiful community and they are very nice folks, so worth an attempt.

CQ, just send you a private msg.