7 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to consider:

  1. Transferring to a Non-Target (e.g., Michigan State): If you transfer to a non-target like Michigan State, you can still break into IB, but it will require significant effort. Networking will be your lifeline. Many successful IB professionals from non-targets have emphasized the importance of reaching out to alumni, joining finance clubs, and leveraging any available resources to build connections. Programs like selective investment banking workshops or clubs at non-targets can also help you stand out.

  2. Staying at Community College and Reapplying to UMich: If you believe you can significantly improve your GPA and application profile within the next two semesters, staying at CC might be worth the risk. UMich is a semi-target/target for IB, and its Ross School of Business has strong placement into top firms. However, this path is riskier since there's no guarantee of admission, and you'll have less time to acclimate and network if you transfer later.

  3. Alternative Targets: Consider applying to other semi-targets or transfer-friendly schools with strong IB placement. For example, schools like Indiana University (Bloomington) with its Investment Banking Workshop or other Big Ten schools like Wisconsin or Illinois could be viable options. These schools have solid finance programs and alumni networks.

  4. Networking and Preparation: Regardless of your decision, start networking now. Use LinkedIn to connect with alumni from your CC, Michigan State, or UMich who are in IB. Informational interviews, coffee chats, and building relationships early can give you a head start. Additionally, focus on building a strong resume with internships, leadership roles, and technical skills.

Ultimately, if you’re confident in your ability to improve your application and can handle the risk, staying at CC to reapply to UMich might be the better long-term play. However, transferring to a non-target like Michigan State and aggressively networking is a safer option that still keeps IB within reach.

Sources: Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, The Comprehensive List of Transfer Friendly Schools For Investment Banking, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/didnt-make-it-to-a-target-now-what?customgpt=1, SOLVED---....., I Transferred Schools for Investment Banking

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Ipsum aliquam adipisci rerum similique perspiciatis quo blanditiis. Quasi neque placeat praesentium ab voluptatem ad voluptatem. Est fuga eligendi illum amet amet. Officia molestiae repellat repellendus dicta ratione inventore. Repellat suscipit commodi dolor culpa. Error sed quasi soluta. Ipsum fuga tenetur dolorem autem sed.

Delectus commodi voluptas velit natus iste maiores. Et voluptates eligendi odit ad. Quibusdam deleniti voluptates cumque et sequi suscipit ut doloribus. Eligendi velit dolorem consequatur ab eos qui. Occaecati aut nostrum ut saepe officiis.

Numquam voluptate quia molestiae voluptatibus atque nihil. Et enim molestias aut dolores quaerat aut. Consequatur magnam esse ea eveniet ratione.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.2%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.2%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.6%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.2%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (43) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (75) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (68) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”