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Yes, freshmen diversity programs still exist, and they remain a valuable opportunity for students aiming to break into competitive industries like finance. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key insights:

Freshmen Diversity Programs

  1. Goldman Sachs – Undergraduate Camp

    • Description: Multi-day programs in NYC.
    • Eligibility: URM (Underrepresented Minorities), Female, Freshman.
    • Application Timeline: Opens every spring.
  2. Citi – Freshman Discovery Diversity Program

    • Description: A strong program that adds weight to your resume early on.
  3. Wells Fargo – Freshman Diversity Finance Forum

    • Description: A diversity-focused program for freshmen.
  4. Barclays – Freshman Foundation

    • Description: A 1-day program in NYC.
    • Eligibility: URM/Female/LGBT/Veteran/Disability.
  5. Morgan Stanley – Early Insights Program

    • Description: Various 1-day firm-wide programs in NYC.
    • Eligibility: URM/Female/LGBT/Veteran, Freshmen/Sophomores/Juniors (varies by program).
  6. D.E. Shaw Fellowships

    • Description: Four highly selective fellowships, with only around 32 participants per program.
    • Eligibility: Open to major target schools, phenomenal for resumes, and includes a stipend.

Shifts in Program Focus

Some programs have indeed shifted focus to being women-only or targeting specific groups like LGBTQ+ or veterans. For example: - Goldman Sachs – Pride Summit: Focused on LGBTQ+ students.
- BAML – Emerging Women’s Program: Specifically for freshman/sophomore women.

How to Find These Programs

  1. Company Websites: Regularly check the careers section of major banks and firms.
  2. Networking: Reach out to alumni or current employees who have participated in these programs.
  3. WSO Forums: Stay active on Wall Street Oasis forums, as users frequently share updates and deadlines.
  4. University Career Centers: Many target schools have direct connections to these programs.

Key Advice

  • Apply early, as these programs are highly competitive with low acceptance rates.
  • Tailor your application to highlight your unique background and how it aligns with the program's goals.

These programs are excellent feeders into sophomore internships, so securing a spot can significantly boost your career trajectory.

Sources: List of Diversity Programs for Freshman, 43 Diversity Recruiting Programs at Investment Banks - The Most Exhaustive List, Teller's Comprehensive Guide to Diversity Recruiting, 43 Diversity Recruiting Programs at Investment Banks - The Most Exhaustive List

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

Freshman? Dude, please enjoy your first college summer. I can promise you it will not make a major difference if you did something big over your freshman summer. 

Most banks or big firms will have some sort of web series or discovery program that runs for a few weeks. Look into something like that. 

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