Sophomore Transfer from Non Target (UT Austin) to Target in the spring

Is it a good idea to try transferring into a target school (Cornell/Yale etc.) in the spring semester of my sophomore year so I have a better shot at landing HF first rounds. Interning at a top LO in the summer but aiming for L/S (P72, Citadel, Millenium etc.) junior summer, and not sure UT will help much in getting my foot in the door. Social factor doesn't really matter for me, more concerned if lack of clubs and so many TX internships will be a dead giveaway/bad look in interviews. 

 

UT isn't a non-target. Unless you're not in McCombs, which then it is. McCombs places pretty well in banking, especially if you do WSFM. Sure, Harvard and Yale will get you more looks, but a handful of mccombs students have gone to P72 and such. 

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, transferring to a target school like Cornell or Yale could potentially improve your chances of landing first rounds at top hedge funds. However, it's important to consider a few factors:

  1. Academic Performance: You'll need to maintain a strong GPA, especially if you're transferring. Top firms often look for high academic achievers.

  2. Networking: Regardless of the school you attend, networking is crucial. Start building relationships with professionals in the industry, attend events, and reach out to alumni.

  3. Internships: Your internship at a top long-only fund is a great start. It's not just about the brand name, but what you learn and how you leverage that experience.

  4. Clubs and Activities: While being part of finance or investment clubs can be beneficial, it's not a deal-breaker. What matters more is your understanding of the industry, your ability to articulate your thoughts, and your passion for the field.

  5. Location: While UT Austin may not be a traditional target school, it's still a highly respected institution. Plus, being in Texas could give you access to a different network of firms that may not recruit as heavily from the Northeast.

Remember, it's not just about the school's name, but what you make of your time there. So, whether you decide to transfer or stay at UT Austin, make sure you're taking steps to improve your profile and gain relevant experience.

Sources: SOLVED---....., Should I transfer from my T20 semi-target to a stronger target?, Navigating Recruiting at Target Schools

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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