How do I get my foot in the door?

I am currently a sophomore at a non target (very big SEC school) looking to get my foot in the door in AM/HF. I have a 3.5 GPA in an appropriate major as well as being a member of my schools investment club and am in the process of creating a stock pitch. I have compiled a list of funds/alumni in my region that I plan to email about internships/SA positions, but I have zero relevant work experience to put on my resume. How should I account for this, or should I start looking at wealth management/other financial internships to put on my resume before I start sending emails?

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OP your idea of sending a write up is a good start for targeting fundamentals based firms. I always prioritize cold e-mails from students who send a stock pitch or other work sample, I don't even care if its good or not. Nothing illustrates an interest in the field more than actually taking the time to put together your own stock analysis, and doing so requires zero pre-requisites such as former banking experience, etc. Don't worry if your resume isn't too flushed out at the moment. You are a sophomore looking to get your foot in the door, and frankly I don't think anyone would expect you to have much internship experience, if any, at this point. Your messaging should be that you are a student interested in learning more about whatever strategy the target firm does, and you've done your best to learn what you can on your own with your stock pitch as an example. I think that'll be more than enough to get someone on the phone. Just be respectful of their time and ask thoughtful questions. You'll likely get folks suggesting you focus on banking (I would) and maybe some who have internship spots at their funds you could potentially speak about. Others will just be good contacts to stay in touch with and keep updated as you go throughout college. 

 

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