Finance Internships as an incoming Freshman @ NYU Stern

To secure a finance internship as an incoming freshman at NYU Stern, here’s what you need to know based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Start Networking Early:

   • Begin reaching out to alumni, professionals, and peers in the industry as soon as possible. Use LinkedIn, Stern’s alumni network, and cold-emailing to connect with people in investment banking (IB) or related fields.
   • Keep your emails concise and professional. Introduce yourself as a freshman at Stern, express your interest in IB, and ask for advice or insights about their career path.

2. Target Local and Boutique Firms:

   • For freshman year internships, focus on smaller boutique investment banks, private equity firms, or even startups. These firms are more likely to hire underclassmen compared to bulge bracket banks.
   • Look for opportunities in NYC, as it’s a hub for finance and offers proximity to many firms.

3. Leverage Stern’s Resources:

   • Attend on-campus info sessions, career fairs, and networking events hosted by Stern. These events often feature representatives from banks and other financial institutions.
   • Join finance-related clubs or organizations at Stern, such as investment or consulting clubs, to build connections and gain access to exclusive opportunities.

4. Apply for Freshman/Sophomore Accelerator Programs:

   • Many banks offer diversity or early insight programs specifically for freshmen and sophomores. These programs are a great way to get on the radar of recruiters and gain exposure to the industry.

5. Cold-Emailing Strategy:

   • Reach out to analysts, associates, and other professionals at boutique firms. Use WSO’s cold-email templates to structure your outreach. Highlight your eagerness to learn and your interest in finance.
   • Persistence is key—contact enough people, and you’re likely to get a response.

6. Timing and Applications:

   • Start networking and applying in the fall of your freshman year. Many firms begin recruiting for internships early, so being proactive is crucial.
   • For summer internships before sophomore year, aim to secure a position by late spring.

7. Focus on Building Your Story:

   • Your freshman internship doesn’t have to be directly in IB. Any meaningful experience that ties into your interest in finance—such as corporate finance, private equity, or even a startup—can help build your narrative for future recruiting.

8. Prepare for Interviews:

   • Use resources like WSO guides, Vault guides, and finance-related courses to build your technical and behavioral interview skills.

By following these steps, you’ll position yourself well for securing an internship and building a strong foundation for breaking into IB.

Sources: Freshmen: What to do during your freshman year summer, What do sophomores usually do for internships?, 2019 FT Analyst Recruiting Timeline, 5 Steps To Becoming A Rockstar Freshman (Undergrad Advice), As a freshman what should I be doing?