Hi all,
If I were to intern at a bank like Stephens Inc or something of that sort for my Junior year Summer so SA 26’ and re-recruit as a junior whilst going to target school like Michigan, but studying economics though; how bad is this 1-10?
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, interning at a bank like Stephens Inc for your Junior year summer (SA '26) is not necessarily a bad move, especially if you're attending a target school like Michigan and studying economics. Here's how it could be evaluated:
Experience at a Respected Bank: Stephens Inc is a well-regarded middle-market bank. While it may not have the same prestige as a bulge bracket (BB) or elite boutique (EB), it still provides solid experience in investment banking. This can be a strong foundation for re-recruiting.
Re-recruiting Opportunities: Being at a target school like Michigan gives you access to better networking opportunities and on-campus recruiting for BBs and EBs. If you perform well during your internship and leverage your network effectively, you can position yourself for a stronger SA role the following year.
Economics Major: Studying economics at a target school is not a disadvantage. Many successful candidates in IB come from economics backgrounds. Just ensure you maintain a strong GPA (ideally 3.5+), as this is a key screening factor.
Networking and Storytelling: Use your internship at Stephens Inc to build your story. Highlight the skills you gained, the deals you worked on, and how this experience has prepared you for a larger platform. Networking with alumni and professionals in the industry will also be crucial.
On a scale of 1-10, this situation might be around a 6 or 7, depending on how well you execute your re-recruiting strategy. It's not ideal compared to starting at a BB/EB, but it's far from a bad position. Focus on excelling in your current role, networking aggressively, and preparing for interviews to maximize your chances of landing a top-tier offer.
Sources: UMich Undergrad For IB Recruiting, Thoughts on Blackstone adjusting their recruiting process?, Simplified Guide to Breaking in as Non-Target (EASIER THAN YOU THINK), What offers would you take over a BB S&T?, Navigating Recruiting at Target Schools
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