Incoming freshman at a semi-target, what would you tell your younger self?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a breakdown of advice tailored to your situation as an incoming freshman at Fordham, a semi-target school:

Regrets / What You’d Do Differently

1. Start Early: Many regret not starting networking and skill-building in their freshman fall. Begin reaching out to alumni, joining clubs, and learning technical skills immediately.
2. Focus on GPA: A strong GPA (ideally 3.7+) is critical for competitive recruiting. Don’t underestimate the importance of academics early on.
3. Avoid Low-Signal Activities: Spending too much time on activities that don’t directly contribute to recruiting (e.g., overly niche clubs or irrelevant coursework) can be a waste. Focus on high-impact clubs and internships.

Before School Even Starts

1. Cold-Emailing Alumni: Reaching out to alumni before classes start can be valuable if done tactfully. Focus on learning about their experiences rather than asking for favors. It shows initiative without coming off as overly aggressive.
2. Learn Technical Skills: Use the summer to get familiar with Excel, financial modeling, and basic accounting. Free resources or WSO’s financial modeling courses can give you a head start.
3. Read and Research: Books like Investment Banking by Rosenbaum & Pearl or Monkey Business can provide insights into the industry. Also, familiarize yourself with Fordham-specific resources and clubs.

Freshman Year Specifics

1. What Matters Most:
   • GPA: Aim for a 3.7+ to stay competitive.
   • Clubs: Join finance-related clubs like IBS (Investment Banking Society) or GIA (Global Investment Association). These are often feeders for internships and networking opportunities.
   • Networking: Start building relationships with alumni and upperclassmen. Attend info sessions, bank-run events, and case competitions.
2. Lincoln Center vs. Rose Hill: Understand where your classes and resources are concentrated. Rose Hill typically has more finance-related activity, so leverage that campus for networking and events.
3. Hidden Opportunities:
   • Look for spring weeks, insight days, and sophomore programs hosted by banks. These are often under-advertised but can be found through alumni or club connections.
   • Participate in case competitions and bank-sponsored events, even if they seem small. They’re great for networking and resume-building.

Professors / Academics

1. Key Professors: Seek out professors with industry experience or strong alumni connections. They can provide valuable insights and letters of recommendation.
2. Grading and Classes: Be strategic about your course load. Avoid overloading yourself with notoriously hard classes in your first semester to maintain a strong GPA.
3. Finance Instruction: Take introductory finance and accounting courses early. These will help you prepare for technical interviews.

Resources

1. Gabelli-Specific Resources: Utilize the career center, alumni database, and any mentorship programs offered. These are often underutilized but can be game-changers.
2. Clubs: Focus on clubs with strong alumni networks and clear paths to leadership roles. Leadership positions in finance clubs can significantly boost your resume.
3. Career Services: Schedule regular meetings with career advisors to stay on track with recruiting timelines.

Clubs

1. Role Progression: Aim to take on leadership roles or participate in stock-pitch competitions early. These experiences are highly valued by recruiters.
2. Fast-Tracking: If possible, get involved in high-impact roles within clubs like IBS or GIA. These often lead to direct connections with alumni and internship opportunities.

General Tips/Tricks

1. Networking Scripts: Be concise and genuine in your outreach. Focus on learning about the alumni’s experiences rather than immediately asking for help.
2. Honesty About Transferring: When speaking to alumni, it’s okay to mention your interest in transferring to Gabelli, but frame it as a desire to deepen your finance knowledge rather than dissatisfaction with your current program.
3. Recruiting Timeline: Stay aware of key recruiting deadlines, especially for sophomore and junior internships. Missing these can be a major setback.

Final Thoughts

• Be Proactive: The earlier you start, the better positioned you’ll be. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—seek them out.
• Leverage Alumni: Fordham’s alumni network can be a powerful tool if used effectively. Build genuine relationships and stay in touch.
• Stay Resilient: Breaking into finance from a semi-target requires persistence. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks.

By following these steps, you’ll set yourself up for success and maximize your chances of landing competitive internships and offers. Good luck!

Sources: 5 Steps To Becoming A Rockstar Freshman (Undergrad Advice), UCLA Undergrad for IB Recruiting, Advice I give to my incoming analysts, Why you should consider Notre Dame for undergrad