How long until you start modeling

I rarely make models in my coverage group. That usually get outsourced to the product groups, but I try and either make or build one every 6 months to stay fresh so I do not get caught flat footed.  

As others have said, I don't think it's immediate.

However, you should spend a little time learning how to do it. Worst case, you've wasted some time, best case you add a little bit of value to the team and get to bed earlier (rather than fucking around in excel, getting two other people involved and turning it into a shitshow).

At least get the basics down, it's helpful.

You'll obviously pick more up, or your group won't do a ton. But it helps alleviate anxiety to know it.

Some of your exit opportunities might require a model test, so worth learning early and keeping fresh. 

Was thrown into modeling first week lol

First week (AN1). Worked on dozens of models so far.

It really depends. Most of the time you’ll do the historical spreads as the first year for the first 6months or so (some people might call this modeling, but I would disagree). Usually the second year then comes in and builds the projection model etc. I try to keep my first years involved, so they get learning experience and know that’s going on. After that I let them make changes / tweak the model if we get some feedback. That way, they learn how the model functions etc. usually after 6 months they are ready to build their own model with little hand holding.

I think it just depends how you define “modeling”. Sure you could call copying in a DCF tab from an old model and re-linking the cells “modeling”. But to me modeling is building the whole mechanics, case drivers, assumptions and any other company specific nuances what’s considered modeling.