Does anyone have an idea of how to source sophomore gigs that pay and are relevant (PE, HF, Family Office)? I feel like last year, a lot of people got amazing sophomore gigs AFTER landing their IB offer (target schools though).
Any way to get access to these sophomore gigs from my background? I am going to start sending out cold emails now.
TIA. (p.s. if your firm is looking for people with my qualifications, please drop a DM :) i am interview ready!)
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:
Securing a sophomore gig, especially in PE, HF, or Family Offices, as a non-target and non-diversity candidate, will require a strategic approach. Here are actionable steps:
Cold Emailing: This is your best bet. Start by identifying firms in your area (NYC is a goldmine for finance opportunities). Focus on boutique PE firms, small hedge funds, and family offices. Use LinkedIn and alumni networks to find contacts. Keep your emails concise and professional, highlighting your 2026 IB SA offer and relevant experience.
Leverage Alumni Networks: Even as a non-target student, there are likely alumni from your school in finance. Reach out to them for advice or informational interviews. They might not directly offer you a role but can guide you to opportunities.
Target Smaller Firms: Many smaller firms don’t have structured recruiting processes and are more open to hiring sophomores for internships. These include lower middle-market PE firms, small-cap hedge funds, and family offices.
Utilize WSO Resources: Check out the Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking (url: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/non-target-rec…). It provides insights on how to craft your resume and network effectively.
Spin Your IB Offer: Highlight your 2026 IB SA offer in your outreach. It signals credibility and competence, making you a more attractive candidate for sophomore gigs.
Persistence is Key: As mentioned in previous WSO threads, sending out 300+ emails is not uncommon. Be prepared for rejection but stay consistent.
Consider Remote Opportunities: While in-person internships are ideal, remote gigs can also provide valuable experience. Some smaller firms might be open to this arrangement.
Timing: Many sophomore gigs are sourced in the spring. Start your outreach now, but keep pushing through the next few months.
Good luck with your search! If you need more tailored advice, feel free to ask.
Sources: Rising Junior Losing Hope and In Need of Advice, Sophomore IB internships (non-diversity), What do sophomores usually do for internships?, 2018 Sophomore Summer Analyst Recruiting Megathread Page, Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking
Bump
If you’ve already got something locked in enjoy the summer. Got the rest of your life to work.
unfortunately i need to contribute to my family's income. parents will make me work labor job otherwise. times arent the best
Completely respect that then nvm
How the fuck do you get 6-8 finance internships by sophomore year and where do you find these?
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The thing is I know NYU sweats who also have a lot of finance internships like you (3~4) who strike out or don’t do as well as you. What do you think differentiates you?
1. i am personable and can become friends with anyone. my superdays have been 3 networking chats back2back2back instead of interviews
2. insane confidence - going in with the attitude "well, no one expects me to succeed, so whatever happens, happens" whilst NYU kid "if I don't get this offer, life is over"
3. all these NYU "sweats" you are talking about all have the same internships at fraudulent firms. everyone on the street knows what i am talking about. 40+ interns and 0 real management. NYU is full of these kids, i know many personally
I see, so it comes down to being personable and confidence. Lowkey good advice for a freshman like me. One more question though, although nyu people all intern at fraudulent places like Avalerian Capital, they still sometimes place well. Do firms really know about these fraudulent firms?
you can still place with fraudy internships, it is all about how you act in the interview room
main idea here is that - chill kids place
I see. Thanks for the help. You seem like a very hardworking and smart person. Your story inspires me, tbh. Is it possible if we could connect or if I could DM you?
appreciate the glaze. u can dm me
I don’t mean to be rude but how can you say theirs are fraudulent and yours are good, I really can’t imagine good firms would be dying to take in a college freshman/high school student lmao?
Congrats! Which firm did you get an offer at? I didn’t know offers were out this early
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