Can it be too early to network with some people?

I'm currently a freshman at a semi an I am wondering if its too early to try and set up informational interviews at BB since all of their programs are junior oriented and my school has somewhat less alumni than MM firms. I've been networking with these MM firms because of the fact they offer sophomore programs and there are more alumni. My thought was that I should wait before trying to network with the top firms until I am more experienced with this sort of thing. I've already complied a shortlist of alumni (analysts) with similar backgrounds at BBs. Should I go ahead and reach out or should I wait?

On a side note, networking is so much more fun than I thought it would be.

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It's never too early to network, the recruiting seasons have definitely picked up speed, from fall of junior year to as early as freshman year with diversity programs. Sophomore internships are also pretty standard now too.

Definitely practice on analysts from firms you're not interested in just to get a feel for networking if you haven't already. Besides reaching out to alumni, I highly recommend attending informational sessions on campus even if they're geared towards sophomores and juniors. Early exposure is so important, you learn the process, mannerisms, and sometimes might have an early lead on relationship building and networking that could lead to an interview come junior year. However, given that some firms are still just finishing up junior recruiting, maybe don't start with the shortlist you have for BBs and practice at other banks first.

If you are diversity, PM me because I have a shortlist of programs you should definitely check out as a first year. I started recruiting later than others and definitely regreted it despite ending up with an offer in the end.

 

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