IB Career Guideline
My name is Vadym and I moved to the UK 2 years ago. To be honest, before that time I was doing nothing with my life and nothing that I could be proud of. I had friends who prefer do nothing, and a bad education which I didn`t try to improve also and just went with the flow. But at some point in life, I decided that investments and capital markets were the most interesting topics for me.
So after I came to the UK I knew where I wanted to be but not clue how to achieve this. I got a place in a non-target uni and studied hard including bank technicals. I was grinding opportunities like a psycho but there was no chance. In conclusion, I lost all my friends, and nervous, and started drinking more often because of that. But I still trying to find a solution to how I could do it.
I am sure that there are lots of guys who are in the same position trying to change the environment, make new friends, and do what few people can do. I ask for your support on what I can do and what my next steps could be. I believe that many guys have some advice and probably become friends who share the same ideas and options.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a structured approach to help you navigate your journey into investment banking in the UK, especially coming from a non-target university:
Leverage Your University Resources: Even though you're at a non-target uni, make the most of any career services, alumni networks, or finance clubs available. These resources can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potentially connections to industry professionals.
Networking: This is crucial. Start building relationships with professionals in the industry. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with alumni from your university who are working in investment banking. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events. Remember, networking is about offering value and learning from others, not just about asking for a job.
Internships and Work Experience: Try to secure internships, even if they are not directly in investment banking. Related fields such as asset management, equity research, or corporate finance roles can also provide relevant experience and a stepping stone into IB.
Skill Development: Continue enhancing your technical skills. This includes financial modeling, valuation, and understanding financial statements. There are many online resources and courses, some even offered by WSO, that can help you with this.
Personal Development: It sounds like you've faced some personal challenges, including losing friends and increased drinking. It might be helpful to seek support for these issues, whether through counseling, support groups, or wellness activities. Managing stress and maintaining your health are crucial for long-term success.
Persistence and Resilience: The path into investment banking can be highly competitive and challenging, especially from a non-target school. Persistence is key. Learn from rejections and keep improving your approach.
Consider a Master's Program: If breaking into IB directly from undergrad proves too challenging, consider pursuing a Master's degree from a target university. This can provide a significant boost to your profile, expand your network, and increase your chances of securing an IB role.
Remember, every step you take now is building towards your future. Stay focused, keep learning, and maintain your determination.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/investment-banking-in-the-uk-an-overview?customgpt=1, Unsure on what to do next or where to go as UK undergraduate, Advice on career and the switch into investment banking, Capital Markets position to M&A, How can I make it into AM in the U.K
You’re not breaking in. I’ll tell you right now.
do you have internships, good gpa, leadership, etc?
get a "stepping stone" job like corp fin, commercial banking, rating agency, etc.
or get some work experience and do an mba
I have a 3.8 GPA, no internship, and from experience related to a Finance role I have only one month with the NHS financial management team which I currently do.
Is it me, or am I seeing a trend of students drinking if they don't break into IB?
People always start looking for something that they can you to escape reality. It`s hard to stay motivated and disciplined when mostly everyone says that it`s impossible and you will fail anyway.
You need to surround yourself with like minded individuals. Try attend events and meet students there.
What university?
University of Chester
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