Guidance on career
I finished my bachelor's from Non-Target in Finance with a projected first class. I got offers from Bayes and QMUL and am waiting on LSE. If I had to choose between Bayes and QMUL, which would I choose? I want to get into M&A, but I have no internships. I am already attempting CFA Level 1, not for the purpose of getting a job but rather for self-accomplishment. I was really late in applying for summer internships. What do I do now?
Based on the WSO Dataset, choosing between Bayes (formerly Cass) and Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) for a career in M&A can be influenced by several factors:
Reputation and Network: Bayes Business School has a strong reputation in finance and is known for its connections within the London financial district. This could be beneficial for networking opportunities and accessing industry professionals.
Curriculum and Specialization: Both institutions offer robust finance programs, but you should consider the specific courses and specializations offered. Bayes often has a more direct focus on corporate finance and investment banking, which might align better with your M&A aspirations.
Career Services and Alumni Network: Bayes generally has a more established alumni network within the finance industry, which can be crucial for breaking into M&A, especially given your lack of internships.
Regarding your current situation with no internships and a late start in applying for summer positions, here are some actionable steps:
Networking: Leverage LinkedIn and alumni networks to connect with professionals in the industry. Express your interest in M&A and seek advice or even potential internship opportunities. Sometimes, positions open up last minute or professionals can refer you to other opportunities.
WSO and Other Finance Forums: Actively participate in forums like Wall Street Oasis. These platforms can provide not only advice but sometimes job postings and networking opportunities that are not widely advertised.
Speculative Applications: Consider sending speculative applications to smaller boutique firms that specialize in M&A. These firms often have more flexibility in taking on interns without a formal internship program.
Further Education and Certifications: Since you are pursuing the CFA Level 1, continue enhancing your financial knowledge and skills. This certification, along with practical skills like financial modeling (which you can often learn through online courses), will make you a more attractive candidate.
Consider a Master's Program: If you find it challenging to break into the field directly, consider pursuing a Master's in Finance. This can provide not only further education but also internship opportunities during the program.
Choosing the right university and taking proactive steps towards gaining relevant experience will be key in achieving your goal of entering M&A.
Sources: Need advice on my internships options for this summer, Q&A 2.0: 3rd Year BA/A/AC At MBB Going To UMM/MF This Summer, Help me choose the right university for Investment Banking, Q&A: Africa > BB IB in M&A > Corp Dev at a Tech Startup, Q&A: Engineer > PE > MBA > BB IB (TMT / LevFin) > Entrepreneurship
Out of the two options Bayes is certainly better, but for the money you're gonna cough up not sure its worth it. Would hope to get into LSE.
Thank you for your response!
Bayes with no interships... sounds like a bad plan. Even with a degree from LSE, you'll struggle given the awful market. I mean I understand you're aiming at an internship, but people I keep seeing that secure internships have either stellar extracurriculars, or prior internships, or both. But imho it's LSE or reapplying next year. Also try Imperial
Thank you for your response and insights. I came to London from Dubai this year. I never knew about the need for internships over there. Ever since I came here I have slowly started to understand and get the hang of it, and now getting an internship is as hard as it could be. I basically have no option but to choose a master's degree and not waste time. I hope there's something you could advise me here. Thanks
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