I'm not denying that this is a good industry. But all I'm saying is if you come in as an IMAP. You are very under valued as an MA. I know of friends who are executives after 2 years (eg same as fresh hire grading). I also know of
MAs who earn less than direct hires who just came in. I hate to break it the truth but as an IMAP myself I came in believing my future is bright and all will be well, but honestly with
MAS sponsoring half your salary, companies take you in as a cheap hire. If you're lucky to find one company that really want to groom you as a true MA then congratulations (there are cases like this, promoted and significant salary increase after completion). I'm just saying this isn't the case for most other IMAPs i personally know.
If i had the choice again. I would rather be a direct hire as compared to a rotating IMAP. Yes i agree be patient 10 to 15 years you will reach it there 150K per annum no problem. But then again lets think of it logically ...10 to 15 years. Which industry will not give you 150K after 10 to 15 years (assuming you don't screw up and work diligently and move up the rank normally, promote once per 3 years which is relatively slow... you're already 5 ranks higher after 15 years and should be fetching 10K plus per month)
My point and conclusion here is just that: it is not worth it to be an IMAP thats all. Cause from my experience and what i observed. The fast track is a scam and i believe that's why many decided to join IMAP for a so called fast track future right? No insults to the industry, i highly reccomend all fresh grads to join the industry as a broker/underwriter or actuary it is a good career. Just probably not under the IMAP scheme. As for ACII yeah maybe it is getting more recognised but like the poster pointed out, its a relationship business. Your connection is your power not your cert.
Ps. For privacy sake I'm not gonna reveal which batch and big3 I'm in. Please understand that. Observations are from people i know cross batches including current to even the very first batch when it was not even called IMAP yet. This is my very opinion. But of course since its a forum everyone is dedicated to their own very honest opinions.