Recent Graduate, Starting in Operations and Need help

Hi everyone,

I’m a recent graduate from a target school in Toronto, Canada and managed to secure a few summer internships in investment management and the hedge fund space during my studies.

However, just two months before graduation, the hedge fund I interned with closed down due to its relatively small AUM of $250 million and the departure and retirement of the partners. I was promised a return offer, but with the closure, I found myself jobless right after graduating.

I eventually landed a role as an Investment Operations Analyst, but I’m struggling with it. The work isn't fulfilling, I crave a more creative environment, and my team isn’t very social. I know this isn’t the right fit for me.

What frustrates me most is seeing others from my graduating class land front-office roles straight out of school. I worked so hard, grinding through solid internships, but now I’m scared I’ll be stuck in operations forever. I’ve started studying for my CFA, but I’m worried.

Is this normal? I feel like I’m not learning much after three months in this new position. Any guidance or advice on what I should do next would be greatly appreciated.