FYI, associate isn't an entry level position, there are usually 2-3 years of "analyst" position first at around 50-60k salary plus bonus. They can gross around 100k those years, but associates will pull 150k easy
This industry seems very tough to get into w/o an ivy league ed. or family connections; it seems that these opportunities are limited to the upper class. I will be attempting to trade on my own when I feel that I have a comfortable trade plan. I would eventually like to work for a firm as a technical/quantitative analyst.
This was my goal coming out of college, but unfortunately I entered the job market at the peak of the 02 recession.
For yourself...you need to build a bankroll and find a plan and stick to it after you have papertraded for a while...
To get a salaried + comm job like above....you need to attend a top 10 school-and possibly business school or have a family member in the game, along with endless networking contacts to have any chance at all..........