> Investing in stocks?

Investing in stocks?

Posted at: 2014-12-05 
Welcome to the board.

First off, it is perfectly fine for a pre-med student to invest in stocks. You do not need a degree to invest in stocks - millions don't and perform fine.

Having said that, you still need basic accounting, finance, and fundamental analysis knowledge to succeed in the market. Many fail in the market because they treat it like a casino, and not for what it actually is - a barter and trade system.

How to start? Investopedia.com is the popular online resource that most beginners use. They have free and good video tutorials on basic stock concepts.

Afterwards do some more research on accounting and finance. I usually recommend these two books: "Financial Intelligence: A Manager's Guide for Knowing the Numbers" and "Warren Buffett's 3 Favorite Books."

After going through those items you'll have a better idea if stock trading is for you. If it is, I recommend trading a bit through a free simulator before opening an online brokerage account.

Hope this helps!

It takes roughly 10,000 hours to get really good at anything.

Are you going to spend your spare time trying to get good at being a doctor? Or trying to trade stocks?

You could easily be smart enough to do either one - but both at the same time. Once you finished school, and got your doctorate and residency...then you might have a few hours of free time. I mean, do whatever you want, but trying to do both is just asking for trouble.

Hello. I am a college student, and I would like to learn how to invest in stocks so I can make some extra money on the side one day. Also, would it be appropriate for me to learn investing even though my major has nothing to do with investing (i am a pre med student)? If so, how would I start? Thanks