Advice for breaking in from Premed

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know to transition from premed to finance and prepare for sophomore year recruiting:

1. Networking:

   • Start Networking Now: Begin reaching out to regional/industry-specific boutiques for sophomore positions. Allocate about 60% of your time to this and 40% to top-notch firms for junior year.
   • Follow-Up: Maintain periodic follow-ups with updates. This helps build relationships over time, making contacts more willing to push your resume when the time comes.

2. Building Experience:

   • Freshman/Sophomore Accelerator Programs: Participate in these programs offered by most banks. They help get your foot in the door and put you on the radar of recruiters.
   • Local Boutique Internships: Start cold emailing local boutique IB places. Explain your interest in banking and eagerness to learn about the industry. Even if it's not directly related to finance, any meaningful experience that ties well to your overall story can be valuable.

3. Skill Development:

   • Learn Finance: Take finance-related courses in college, read finance/interview Vault guides, and WSO guides. This knowledge will give you an edge in recruiting.
   • Set Action Goals: Focus on small, actionable goals each month, such as sending 8 emails a week or spending 20 minutes a day on technicals. This consistent effort will improve your chances of getting an offer.

4. Resume Building:

   • Relevant Experience: Aim to have a part-time finance internship or something substantive under your belt by the spring semester of your sophomore year. This will make you more competitive when recruiting for junior summer internships.
   • Showcase Your Story: Highlight any experience that demonstrates your interest in finance, even if it's from a different field. For example, if your SWE research internship involved any analytical or quantitative work, emphasize those skills.

5. Confidence and Presentation:

   • Be Normal and Relatable: Showcase that you are someone people would want to work with for long hours. Be able to hold and continue a conversation casually.
   • Confidence: Confidence is crucial. Believe in your ability to transition and succeed in finance.

By following these steps, you can effectively prepare for sophomore year recruiting and make a successful transition from premed to finance. Good luck!

Sources: What to do Pre-MBA to prepare for IB recruiting, Basic Questions About PE Recruiting Answered, As a freshman what should I be doing?, Navigating Recruiting at Target Schools, Simplified Guide to Breaking in as Non-Target (EASIER THAN YOU THINK)