Feeling Incredibly Lost - What do I do?
Hi all,
I am a junior international student at a semi-target. I could not recruit for SA 2024... no previous internship experience at all because of visa constraints + being an international student makes the already-challenging process even harder. Sophomore summer WM internship at a BB helps my resume somewhat stand out.
Still, I have applied to Fall/Spring internships to do during the year, but to no avail... and I am extremely lost on what I should do for summer 2024. Ideally, I can land something and would move on to recruit for FT.
Is there anyone who has had a somewhat familiar experience? What would help me stand out and get my foot in the door? Is it even a feasible plan?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some steps that could help you stand out and increase your chances of landing an internship for summer 2024, especially coming from a semi-target school with visa constraints:
Leverage Your Sophomore Summer Experience: Even though it was in Wealth Management, any experience at a Bulge Bracket (BB) is valuable. Highlight any transferable skills you gained during this time on your resume and in interviews.
Network Aggressively: Reach out to alumni from your school who are working in the industry. Use LinkedIn, your school's career center, and any finance clubs or associations to make connections. Personal connections can often lead to opportunities that aren't advertised.
Consider Smaller Firms: Boutique banks and smaller shops may be more open to hiring international students and can provide valuable experience that is relevant to investment banking.
Showcase Your Skills: If you have any technical skills or have taken relevant coursework, make sure to highlight these on your resume. Being proficient in financial modeling, valuation, and having a good grasp of accounting principles can make you a more attractive candidate.
Be Open to Unpaid Internships: If visa constraints allow, consider unpaid internships. They can provide experience and networking opportunities that may lead to a paid position later on.
Stay Positive and Persistent: The recruiting process can be challenging, but maintaining a positive attitude and being persistent in your efforts can eventually pay off.
Prepare for Interviews: Make sure you are well-prepared for interviews by practicing technical questions, behavioral questions, and having a clear narrative for why you want to work in investment banking.
Utilize Your School's Resources: Your career center may have leads on firms that have hired international students in the past or may be able to provide additional support in your job search.
Remember, it's important to be proactive and to utilize every resource at your disposal. It's a competitive field, but with determination and a strategic approach, it's possible to secure an internship and move on to full-time recruitment.
Sources: 5 Steps To Becoming A Rockstar Freshman (Undergrad Advice), Tips for Getting an internship in Investment Banking as a freshman, How can I become successful from a no-name school?, Some advice on getting a job or internship by Monty09, First Year Summer Internship Enough for IB?
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