Audit internship in 1st yr to IB?

I'm in my 1st yr of a 4 yr course so applying for springs in the next cycle. I don't have anything to do over summer so applied to a lot of small finance companies/boutiques but got ghosted by most. I was able to get an audit internship at a mid sized firm (RSM/BDO/Grant thornton) which is 6 weeks. Would it be beneficial for IB applications next year?

They also had M&A positions which I only found out recently, but it's London which is quite a long commute away, while this one is in my city. 

Thanks!

 

Landing an audit internship at a mid-sized firm like RSM, BDO, or Grant Thornton in your first year is a commendable achievement and can indeed be beneficial for your investment banking (IB) applications next year. Here's how:

  1. Foundation in Finance and Accounting: Audit roles provide a solid foundation in understanding financial statements, compliance, and the operational aspects of businesses. This knowledge is crucial in IB for financial modeling, due diligence, and analyzing companies' financial health.

  2. Transferable Skills: Skills such as attention to detail, analytical thinking, and project management developed during your audit internship are highly valued in IB. Highlighting these skills in your applications and interviews can make a strong case for your candidacy.

  3. Networking Opportunities: Use this internship to network with professionals in the M&A division or those with connections to IB. Expressing your interest in IB and seeking advice can open doors for future opportunities.

  4. Storytelling in Interviews: Your experience in audit, especially at a reputable mid-sized firm, can be a compelling part of your story when applying to IB roles. It shows your early interest in finance, willingness to learn, and adaptability.

  5. Consider Commuting for M&A: While the commute to London for an M&A position might seem daunting, such roles are directly relevant to IB and can significantly boost your profile. If possible, consider this option in the future or seek similar opportunities closer to your location.

In conclusion, while the audit internship might not be directly related to IB, it's a valuable stepping stone. Leverage this experience, continue building your skillset, and actively seek networking opportunities. Remember, a proactive approach and a clear demonstration of your interest in IB are key to transitioning from audit to IB.

Sources: Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking, Q&A: From Big4 Audit -> Big4 Advisory -> MBA -> AM Portfolio Manager, Did my GPA screw up my application?, Q&A: Big 4 Audit to MM IB, Worth Attempting to Transfer from Semi-Target to Target?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Yea I understand that. I think this specific company doesn't allow multiple applications per cycle so I'll try and see if I can find one at another company which isn't too far from me. I really shouldve passed my driving test before uni...

 

Audit is good and will put you in a good spot.

I think it’s better to have too much experience, send out more applications and try to get a week at some kind of wealth management/professional services/ consulting firm.

 

Thanks a lot mate. I don't do a finance related degree so what I learn will be really helpful. I'd imagine most of these sorts of internships I'd need to email them directly since I couldn't find them on LinkedIn or other sites? 

 

Velit sit repudiandae placeat quas ipsa officia hic neque. Iure doloribus voluptas veniam ut. Est repellendus quo et quasi. Eos laudantium blanditiis qui voluptates ullam ut quia.

Necessitatibus voluptates sit dolor exercitationem ut. Ut omnis sequi quia non. Molestias quos quo reprehenderit.

Career Advancement Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Jefferies & Company 02 99.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 19 98.8%
  • Harris Williams & Co. New 98.3%
  • Lazard Freres 02 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 04 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Harris Williams & Co. 18 99.4%
  • JPMorgan Chase 10 98.8%
  • Lazard Freres 05 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.7%
  • William Blair 03 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Lazard Freres 01 99.4%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 17 98.3%
  • Moelis & Company 07 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 05 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Director/MD (5) $648
  • Vice President (19) $385
  • Associates (87) $260
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (14) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (33) $170
  • 2nd Year Analyst (67) $168
  • 1st Year Analyst (205) $159
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (146) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
99.0
3
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
6
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
7
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
8
kanon's picture
kanon
98.9
9
Kenny_Powers_CFA's picture
Kenny_Powers_CFA
98.8
10
numi's picture
numi
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”