Non target school, math and finance major. Last year did L/S equity hedge fund internship and will start another hedge fund internship soon. Had alright gpa before (just above 3.5) but messed up last semester. Waiting for grades and expecting my gpa to drop below 3.5 for sure (maybe to 3.35 or 3.45 if I am lucky). Are my chances for getting BB or other top firms fucked? Anyone knows GPA cutoff in HK?
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3.5 isn't a HARD cutoff, it's not like you are auto-rejected, but the lower your GPA gets the harder it is especially from a non target. You would need to have an exceptional network that is really pulling for you. I would cast a wide net (MM, boutique)
You'll just have to work harder (i.e. must master your application and / or interview, be a top networker) and think of ways to differentiate yourself (whether that's a stock pitch competition, extra curriculars, etc.).
My cGPA was 3.50 but I had straight A's in all my finance courses which was key. + I networked my ass off and had a strong resume outside of school.
I had a 3.4 and still made it to a BB just network and have a stellar resume outside of academics
Not impossible and make sure to build a strong CV outside of academics, which you should be doing even if you have a 4.0 GPA anyway
For non-targets, I have seen a lot of people get BB positions by first getting an MSc from a target or a big4 gig
you being in HK, advice should be region specific. what applies to US most likely won't apply in Asia. but what I do know is that (based on linkedin searches), everyone went to target school or foreign brand name schools. do you see anyone from your school break into BB in HK?
Yes, a few people actually (JPM/GS/MS). Saw guys getting into markets, technology, payments/treasury.
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