I truly don’t know what to do

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a game plan to tackle your situation:

1. Refine Your Equity Research Report:

   • While using AI is fine as a tool, ensure the report reflects your understanding and effort. Go beyond AI-generated content by adding your personal insights, unique analysis, and a clear investment thesis.
   • Focus on creating a report that is well-structured, with all hard-hitting arguments upfront. If you're still learning modeling, keep it simple but accurate. Highlight your thought process rather than overcomplicating the numbers.

2. Seek Feedback Strategically:

   • Reach out to professionals in equity research or alumni from your school. Be upfront about being a recent graduate and eager to learn.
   • Frame your request as seeking guidance rather than validation. For example: “I’m a recent graduate working on improving my equity research skills. I’d appreciate any feedback on my report to help me grow.”
   • Most professionals value effort and humility, and they’re less likely to grill you if you show a willingness to learn.

3. Network Effectively:

   • Networking is critical, especially as a non-target graduate. Use LinkedIn, alumni networks, and industry events to connect with people in equity research.
   • When networking, focus on building relationships rather than immediately asking for job opportunities. Share your interest in the field and ask for advice on breaking in.

4. Build Your Skills:

   • Continue learning financial modeling and report writing. There are free and paid resources like WSO’s stock pitch templates and modeling guides that can help you improve.
   • Practice writing additional stock pitches and prepare one or two backup ideas with a general thesis and risks. This will show depth in interviews.

5. Address the AI Concern:

   • If asked about using AI, be honest but emphasize that it was a tool to assist your learning, not a crutch. Highlight the parts of the report where you added your own analysis and insights.
   • Demonstrating that you used AI responsibly and supplemented it with your effort can actually reflect positively on your resourcefulness.

6. Stay Persistent:

   • Breaking into equity research is challenging, but persistence pays off. Keep applying, networking, and improving your skills.
   • Consider entry-level roles like research assistant or internships, even unpaid ones, to gain experience and build your resume.

Remember, many professionals started from humble beginnings. Your willingness to learn and improve will set you apart. Keep pushing forward!

Sources: Breaking into buy-side equity research - my experience, Breaking into buy-side equity research - my experience, Equity Research writing test+modeling test next Tuesday, seeking for advice, Advice for Equity Research Associates - Part I, Q&A: Sell-Side Equity Research today