At a top target but no connections-- best way to get somewhere for sophomore summer?
I'm a sophomore at a top ivy and I really want to get into finance for next summer. Unfortunately, unlike a lot of other people at my school, I have no implicit connections that I can tap into to start working things out. More than anything, I just want to be somewhere where I can learn a lot about finance and get the experience to evaluate whether or not the field is right for me or not, in preparation for the far more important junior summer if necessary. I have really great grades, and great but not business related extra curricular activities. What would you guys advise?
It's literally in your title - you need to develop connections. Reach out to alumni and whatnot, look at your school's career website and see who hires sophomores, contact various firms around where you live, for starters.
Is there an age range that's great for this-- should I bother contacting people who aren't of a certain level of seniority?
Also, I feel hesitant to reach out to alumni looking for something when I don't know what I'm looking for. I want to have a very pointed focus that I want to accomplish, and I'm unsure of what area I should aim for to fulfill that before I begin to just start looking people up.
You should for sure look at Sil 's networking guide, but on the contrary, you should be reaching out to analysts and associates, because generally, they're the ones who are going through kids' resumes and whatnot. But even if you don't know what you want to do, that's fine. Let the people you're networking with know that, and that you want to see their perspective and hear their advice.
my name is goldstein should have the answer
We've talked already
I had no connections in finance going into this summer but landed an unpaid boutique internship after cold-emailing about 150 firms (banks, hedge funds, PE firms, etc.). I started insanely late as well, so late that I ended up getting my internship in the beginning of June (three weeks ago). I would recommend start applying early (around winter break or earlier, possibly November) and apply to every firm in the nearest major metro area. Just email one of the MDs asking for open internship opportunities in the summer or for an informational interview. I came in as an econ major with no relevant experience at all, just take the initiative and start picking up finance on your own (read wsj, follow the market, etc.). I am currently a rising junior at a semi-target so you should have an easier time then I did, especially considering 20-30 firms replied to me saying I applied too late. So far I have had a great experience and am learning more than I could have ever dreamed of. Just being in an office around finance individuals makes the experience worth it. Good luck and don't give up on trying.
Extremely helpful, thanks. Do you think starting in June (now) is too early? I might PM you some more questions, too. That sounds very impressive, and like you were very dedicated.
This summer I would suggest learning the basics of finance and investment banking. Investopedia and Mergers & Inquisitions are two great sources that will teach you a lot. Applying now is too early as most of the major banks haven't opened applications yet for next summer, so the boutiques and MMs will be later in the timeline.
The best thing you can do is join a finance club. The older kids will be more than happy to show you the ropes.
You apply to get into the finance clubs at my school, but I'll check it out. Thanks.
Feel free to message me. I can't offer you an internship but I was in your situation and can give a more detailed response privately.
It's also fine to contact alums to learn more about their day to day roles. Just make sure you have a good idea of what the divisions do (please don't ask "what's the difference between ibd and s&t?"). Most people are more responsive if you're curious about how to succeed in their industry rather than asking for a job outright.
Thanks for your reply; will do!
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