A-Levels Questions

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

1. Commit to Durham and Aim for a First-Class Degree:

   • Durham is considered a semi-target university, and achieving a first-class degree in Geography can help you stand out. Many successful candidates in IB/Asset Management have leveraged strong academic performance at semi-targets to secure opportunities.
   • Following this path, you can rebrand yourself by pursuing a Master's degree at a target university (e.g., LSE, Oxbridge, Imperial). A strong postgraduate degree can significantly boost your chances of breaking into IB/Asset Management.

2. Resitting A-Levels:

   • Resitting A-Levels to improve your grades to ABB or above could help you bypass some of the automated filters used by firms during spring week and internship applications. However, this approach comes with risks:
     • It delays your university start by at least a year.
     • There's no guarantee that resitting will lead to significantly better results.
   • If you choose this route, ensure you also use the gap year productively (e.g., gaining relevant work experience, networking, or completing certifications like the Bloomberg Market Concepts).

3. Spring Weeks and Internships:

   • While BBB might limit your chances at some firms due to grade filters, it's not an absolute barrier. Focus on networking, building relationships with professionals, and crafting a compelling story about your resilience and determination.
   • Consider applying to programs like Investment 20/20, which can provide valuable experience and help you build a foundation for future applications.

4. Alternative Strategies:

   • If you proceed with Durham, join finance-related societies, take on leadership roles, and gain practical experience (e.g., trading competitions, internships, or part-time roles in finance).
   • Use your time at university to network extensively, both online (LinkedIn) and in-person, to build connections in the industry.

Ultimately, both paths have their merits. If you're confident in your ability to excel at Durham and secure a strong Master's degree later, that might be the more efficient route. However, if you feel strongly about improving your A-Level grades and are willing to take the risk, resitting could also be a viable option.

Sources: Screwed up my A Levels, what courses can I go for to still make it in IB?, Intro to Investment Banking, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/should-i-do-a-phd-at-an-ultra-target-university-if-i-want-to-be-an-ib?customgpt=1, Unsure on what to do next or where to go as UK undergraduate, Q&A: High-school Dropout > Graduate > BO to FO Global AM Firm @ Real Estate