Incoming Freshman to UCLA...how do I make it?

Hello.

I will be a freshman at UCLA majoring in economics this upcoming fall. I want to work in IB in the future. What steps can I take to get me closer to my ultimate goal of having a job in the field? I know this is rather broad but I'm just looking for any tips/nuggets of advice I can take into my college career. When should I be looking for internships, do I need to do anything else besides get good grades, make connections, etc...

Thanks for any help.

12 Comments
 

Join a god tier frat, slack off, drink brewskis with your brahs and never ask a woman for permission. You're probably thinking "but FratLord The Highest, my question was about Investment Banking." I know that, and thats gay. Only bottom tier peons work for their money. Just link up with some of your frat bros and the connections come naturally.

 
Best Response

It is possible. I go to a non-target in NYC and got into IB as an undergrad sophomore.

Tips/Nuggets of advice: Read, read, read, read; read everything and anything about IB/market trends/general finance, get on LinkedIn and NETWORK with alumni like an absolute animal, study and understand ib interview questions, get on all the clubs/societies related to business, keep your GPA high; 3.7-4 not that 3.5 bullshit, make Wall Street Prep your best friend - learn modeling inside and out, learn bloomberg terminal; if I can think of anything else I'll let you know.

You will most likely not intern as a freshman but who the fuck knows. Try to network your way into a boutique and get the experience. Apply to the events specifically for freshman/sophomores at BB. (GS has one, MS, I think Barclays just introduced an event for freshman/sophomore - don't quote me.

Good luck.

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