Summer Analyst 2016

1. Know the markets well. Be comfortable with the principles of fundamental valuation. Have your accounting down pat--if you get asked an interview question about a certain line item, you should never be caught off-guard. Practice a stock pitch, and preferably learn both a long and a short. Make sure not to blow the easy, behavioral questions by knowing at least a few experiences you could talk about.

All those things are good for the interview, but will come in handy once you start. The truth is, though, the best thing you can do to actually prepare for the position is to be great at excel and familiar with a 10-k. Practice building an integrated 3-statement model, using a K or Q to update it.

2. Less people are applying, maybe, but that also means less positions. I wouldn't say ER is easier, although I would say it's a less formal interview process with less clear "rounds" than they claim. Generally, the kids in ER tend to be more knowledgeable than the kids in S&T when it comes to general market knowledge. Totally anecdotal so take it as you will.