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One needs to have a strong background in math and and the ability to work skilfully with numbers in order to succeed in the world of finance.  Good interpersonal skills are equally important.  A Financial analyst cannot be the proverbial "math geek," just quietly plugging and chucking on a calculator.  No, people in finance deal with millions of dollars, they have to take charge and speak up if they want to win the confidence of their clients.  They must also be detail-oriented and familiar with tax law, the economy and money markets.

Finance is in the same vein as Accounting, but they are two different professions.  If accountants collect, organize and analyze financial data, a finance person takes that information and makes the big decisions.  

Financial Analysts monitor the economic performance of companies and corporations to tell their clients where to invest their money.  Financial  advisors offer individuals financial advice on their personal finances; offering tax and insurance advice or helping them plan for college payments, retirement, and their estates.  Private bankers manage the investment portfolios of the super-wealthy and usually work for just a few clients.

These jobs are very high paying with a median salary of $66,000, and are currently very competitive.  Although there is expected to be nearly a 40% jump in financial analyst jobs by the year 2016, the competition is expected to increade at a that rate if not higher.  The only way one can hope to win a job like this is to have an MBA and to get certified.