2028 SA: how early is too early to prep?
I’m starting to prep for 2028 SA recruiting and I’m struggling to figure out what “smart prep” vs. overkill looks like.
Right now I’m reviewing technicals, doing light networking, and trying to improve interview answers. But I’m worried I’m either starting too early and burning out or still somehow behind
For those who actually got an offer - when did you seriously start prepping? and what do you wish you hadn’t stressed about?
Trying to be proactive without spiralling, so any is advice appreciated.
Associate here. I think real prep should start late 2026/early 2027. Anything before that should just be light exposure (e.g., getting decent finance-adjacent experience, keeping your GPA solid, and generally understanding what bankers do).
Don't stress too much about technicals yet. You’ll forget them anyway and they matter most right before interviews. Starting too early and burning out is way more common than starting too late.
That said, I recommend regularly keeping up with your knowledge. A great tool I've been recommending to my mentees recently: https://cookd.ai/ It uses real banking questions and lets you practice at your own pace. Good luck!
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Dude above is out of touch with timelines. Prep shoud start whenever you start sophomore year. But, it is fair to do some prep in terms of learning what ib is and what kinds of product/coverage groups interest you anytime before then just because it’s relevant to whether or not u actually want the job
Thank you! This is super helpful. Do you have any recommendations for resources?
Bro get off 2027. Such a sweat.
Incoming SA at EVR/JPM/GS here - great question, and I agree preparation should start as early as possible.
Best of luck.
Do something cool. IMO that is gonna be a huge differentiator. I got 4 offers this cycle, and I honestly think a lot of it was bc I talked about starting a niche business and restoring an old Nissan car.
Find something that interests you that other people don’t do, makes great interview content. Good luck!
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