Path/Break into Research Analyst

Hey there! It looks like you've got a solid foundation to make a run at breaking into Equity Research (ER). With your background from a target school, a decent GPA, and a mix of economics and finance, you're starting from a strong position. Here's a breakdown of how you can leverage your experience and what steps you might consider taking:

1. Leverage Your Internship Experience:

   • Your wealth management internship and exposure to M&A through the VP who took you under their wing is a golden ticket. Highlight this experience in your resume and during networking conversations.
   • The fact that you've worked closely with someone who has a background at Goldman Sachs is impressive and can be a strong talking point.

2. Capitalize on Your Competition Success:

   • A top 10 finish in a national investment/trading competition is a standout achievement. Be sure to showcase this in your resume and interviews to demonstrate your practical understanding of markets and investing.

3. Continue Building Your Modeling Skills:

   • Since you're already decent at modeling, keep refining these skills. The WSO Elite Modeling Package could be a great resource to achieve mastery, as it covers Excel, financial statement modeling, LBO, M&A, and valuation modeling.

4. Create a Research Report/Stock Pitch:

   • Developing a research report or stock pitch is a fantastic way to show initiative. It's also a tangible piece of work you can discuss in interviews or networking meetings.

5. Networking:

   • You're right; networking is key. Use your school's alumni network, LinkedIn, and any connections from your internship to reach out to professionals in ER.
   • Consider the WSO Networking Guide for strategies on how to effectively reach out and make meaningful connections.

6. Industry Focus:

   • Gaining experience in an industry you're interested in covering as an analyst can be beneficial. It gives you specialized knowledge that can make you a more attractive candidate for ER roles focused on that sector.

7. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Opportunities:

   • Look into DEI initiatives, as they can sometimes offer unique pathways into competitive fields like ER. Firms are increasingly recognizing the value of diverse perspectives.

8. WSO Resources:

   • Don't forget to utilize resources like the WSO Resume Review and WSO Mock Interviews to polish your application and interview performance.

Remember, breaking into ER is about showcasing your analytical skills, industry knowledge, and passion for investing. With your background and a strategic approach, you're well on your way. Keep learning, keep networking, and don't be afraid to reach out to people in the industry for informational interviews. Good luck!

Sources: Breaking into buy-side equity research - my experience, Breaking into buy-side equity research - my experience, Helpful Resources For Breaking Into Equity Research