Advice for a third year undergrad

I'm a third year Applied Mathematics Specialist (concentration in Finance & Economics) and I'm doing a minor in Political science (for whatever it's worth) at the University of Toronto. I'm also the VP of the Students' Union at the university (which is the second largest in North America) and have a host of extra-curricular activities (with the Liberal party and the university administration).

My GPA is barely a 3.0 though. I'm really interested in ibanking, but all the extracurriculars I've done have hurt my GPA. Do I have a shot with the big firms? Where should I start? I'll graduate in April 2008 and will work anywhere.

 

Doubtful. Most people I know with grades that low didn't get interviews at any of the big firms. Look for smaller boutique places or apply for less desirable positions within the bank.

 

Wait a minute...3rd year UofT...you graduating or not?

If you are than its going to be a tough sell just to get the first round interview. My 3.51 didn't turn heads at 5 of the 6 Big 6 CDN banks...which sucked major arse.

I did break into Capital Markets and had 2 of the 3 banks interview me. I'm awaiting the final decision on one of the banks for DCM...

 

You need to work on networking hardcore. If you know alums on the street, buy them drinks and convince them you can hack it. That might get you the first round...

...and that's all you'll need, right?

 

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