How to prep for MiM

Incoming MiM student in France here (HEC/ESSEC/ESCP). What are the recruiting timelines like? How do I best position myself in terms of applying for spring weeks and summer internships in London while also looking at Off-Cycles in London/Paris? Would love to get in touch with someone who has previous experience in doing this and managing where to apply etc. For context, I did undergrad in the UK and no prepa so have some experience too. 

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To prep for your MiM and navigate recruiting timelines effectively, here's a structured approach based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Recruiting Timelines for Spring Weeks and Summer Internships

  • Spring Weeks (London): Applications typically open in August/September and close by October/November. These are highly competitive, so apply early.
  • Summer Internships (London): Applications for summer analyst roles open around July/August and close by September/October. Some firms may have rolling deadlines, so earlier submissions are advantageous.
  • Off-Cycle Internships (London/Paris): These are more flexible and open throughout the year, depending on the firm's needs. Keep an eye on job boards and networking opportunities.

2. Positioning Yourself for Success

  • Leverage Your MiM Network: HEC, ESSEC, and ESCP have strong alumni networks. Use LinkedIn and alumni events to connect with professionals in your target firms.
  • Tailor Your CV: Highlight your UK undergrad experience and any relevant internships. Emphasize skills like financial modeling, analytical thinking, and teamwork.
  • Prepare for Interviews: Use resources like WSO's Investment Banking Interview Prep and Consulting Case Prep to master technical and behavioral questions.
  • Targeted Applications: Focus on firms with strong London and Paris presences. For example, firms like Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, and Morgan Stanley are active in both cities.

3. Balancing Applications Across Locations

  • Spring Weeks and Summer Internships (London): Prioritize these early in the cycle. They are critical for securing full-time offers in London.
  • Off-Cycles (Paris): Use these as a backup or complementary option. They can help you gain experience if you miss out on spring or summer roles.

4. Actionable Steps

  • Start Early: Begin researching firms and preparing your applications now. Use platforms like WSO, LinkedIn, and your school's career services.
  • Network Aggressively: Attend networking events, reach out to alumni, and schedule informational interviews.
  • Practice Interviews: Mock interviews with professionals or peers can help you refine your answers and build confidence.
  • Stay Organized: Use a spreadsheet to track application deadlines, networking contacts, and interview schedules.

5. Resources to Explore

  • WSO's Networking Guide for tips on reaching out to alumni and professionals.
  • WSO's Virtual Bootcamps for technical skills like financial modeling and valuation.
  • Your school's career services for tailored advice and job postings.

By staying proactive and leveraging your MiM program's resources, you'll position yourself well for both London and Paris opportunities. Good luck!

Sources: SA and Full Time Recruiting 2020 thread, The MSF and MiM application process, 2018 Full-Time IB Recruiting Timeline Megathread Page, Q&A: Broke into MM M&A from a non-traditional background and 2 years of networking and internships, 2017 Summer Analyst IB Recruiting Timeline Megathread Pages

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

Was in the exact same situation as you. If you go to hec or escp the core courses are brutal in semester 1. Zero time to study technicals or network so get that done before you start. Essec is a lot more chill academically so you can start a bit later. 

If you're not French of course start learning the language for Paris. 

 

Thanks!

am French, spoke with a couple people who had said that core courses are piss easy lol but I guess not

do you mind if I DM? Had more questions regarding networking and technicals etc.

 
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As subjects individually they're easy asf but there were 9 subjects (not counting languages) + group coursework for each so it's still a lot of content... Almost all French people in their pre master had a few rattrapages from not taking it seriously lol. If you're applying to jobs + networking it does add a lot, but if you manage time well (not just party) then it's manageable. 

Et tu peux me dm pas de soucis 

 

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