Ah, aiming for the stars in the land of skyscrapers and Wall Street dreams, I see! Based on the most helpful WSO content, let me guide you through the jungle with some actionable advice:

  1. Education and Networking: If you're starting from scratch, consider pursuing higher education (MBA or a relevant Master's degree) in the US. This can serve as a golden ticket for networking opportunities and on-campus recruitment. While you're at it, immerse yourself in the culture of finance, join finance clubs, and participate in case competitions. Networking is key, so don't shy away from reaching out to alumni or professionals in the industry for informational interviews.

  2. Visa Considerations: Understand the visa requirements and pathways for working in the US. For Canadians, as mentioned in the WSO Dataset, the TN-1 visa under the Economist Classification can be a viable option, though it's crucial to note that there's no specific Investment Banking TN classification. For others, exploring options like the H-1B visa, which requires sponsorship from an employer, or the F-1 visa for students with Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities post-graduation, could be beneficial.

  3. Skill Building and Experience: Gain relevant experience and skills in your home country or region, even if direct IB roles are scarce. Look into industries that are considered good feeders into banking, such as accounting, law, management consulting, investment management, mining, and energy. Excelling in these areas can make your profile attractive for a transition into IB.

  4. Leverage Online Resources: Utilize online resources to learn and build your skill set. WSO Courses, for example, offer a plethora of information on Investment Banking Prep, Private Equity interviews, and more. These resources can help you understand the nuances of financial modeling, valuation, and other critical skills needed in IB.

  5. Apply Strategically: When you're ready, target both large banks and smaller boutiques. Don't overlook the power of applying to internships or analyst positions in emerging markets or less traditional locations as a stepping stone.

Remember, persistence and resilience are your best allies on this journey. It's a competitive field, but with the right strategy and a bit of grit, you can make your Wall Street dreams a reality. Good luck, and may the financial gods be in your favor!

Sources: IBD Barriers to Entry For Canadians and How to Overcome Them, How to make it into Investment Banking, the South African perspective, IBD Barriers to Entry For Canadians and How to Overcome Them, Working Abroad in Investment Banking, Law to Investment Banking (One Monkey's How-To Guide)

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

Ipsum aperiam sapiente quae sed quaerat. Quia sit sunt odio quasi amet explicabo. Voluptate suscipit unde repudiandae sed eligendi assumenda recusandae doloremque.

Career Advancement Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Jefferies & Company 02 99.4%
  • Perella Weinberg Partners New 98.9%
  • Lazard Freres 01 98.3%
  • Harris Williams & Co. 24 97.7%
  • Goldman Sachs 16 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Harris Williams & Co. 18 99.4%
  • JPMorgan Chase 10 98.9%
  • Lazard Freres 05 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 97.7%
  • Perella Weinberg Partners New 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Lazard Freres 01 99.4%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.9%
  • Perella Weinberg Partners 18 98.3%
  • Goldman Sachs 16 97.7%
  • Moelis & Company 06 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Director/MD (5) $648
  • Vice President (21) $373
  • Associates (91) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (14) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (33) $170
  • 2nd Year Analyst (68) $168
  • 1st Year Analyst (205) $159
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (148) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
6
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
7
kanon's picture
kanon
98.9
8
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
9
bolo up's picture
bolo up
98.8
10
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”