Chances of getting SA interviews without coffee/drink informational interview?

Had planned to go to NYC this summer to meet with a couple alumni for coffee chats. I've already talked on the phone with a couple of bankers and made connections but I wanted to go the extra mile and meet them in person too. However, looking at the prices to fly to NYC from Northern California is actually quite expensive plus the cost to Airbnb for a week is not that cheap either. Is it really necessary to have the in-person coffee chat to really leave an impression? I'm down to put a dent in my dad's bank account but only if it is hugely beneficial. I am a rising junior at a target (think Stern, McIntire, Ross).

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How strong are the connections that you've already made? If they're guys that were in your fraternity / alumni from your school / friends of family then you're probably fine. If they were guys that you cold-called then you may want to meet up with them in NYC just so they can get a better feel for you as a person before they vouch for you during recruitment.

I've seen kids get offers by only applying without knowing anyone at the firm but I've also seen kids go grab coffee with an MD and even come in to the office to check out our department and end up with no offer from us. Lots of variables at play here.

 
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