How to begin my career in Investment banking?

Hi, I am new user from Philly. Currently a Master Graduate looking for a job in Finance. I am interested in Boutique Banks, Investment, Private equity and corporate finance. Truly hope to get a job in Philly. I don't remember how I found WSO, but I know it is a right place for me to come. Anyone can share with me that how to begin a career in Investment bank? What kind of must-have skills for a 1st year financial analyst ? Thanks! Ears up!!

5 Comments
 

That is way too wide a career swath and indicates you don't have a great idea what you want. I'd suggest some self reflection to figure out why and what you want. Then target it. IMO, F500 is going to be easier in a smaller city like Philadelphia. Banking is really tough here and you really need to know your shit if you are going to break into this market.

 

Fugit incidunt et sed id porro ipsa. Quos vero eveniet dicta sit est autem sint sed. Consequatur suscipit est saepe eaque explicabo sunt similique est.

--Death, lighter than a feather; duty, heavier than a mountain

Career Advancement Opportunities

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Guggenheim Partners 02 97.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 99.0%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 13 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (57) $264
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (28) $184
  • Intern/Summer Associate (16) $161
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (76) $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...”