incoming SA under younger/same age people

hi everyone, happy to have secured an offer for this summer but am quite weirded out by having to work with people i know ish. 

i did a masters (long one) after my undergrad so am doing my summer just now. i went to a target undergrad so there is quite a bit of representation around IB. problem for me is that some people who graduated in my year from my year are already full time analysts (1st or even 2nd year). how do people deal with this?

i guess Europeans would be very used to this given that they are all 23 or so while doing their summer whereas that's the age of an associate who did a bachelors in the UK.

happy to hear if this changes the dynamic/is something i should look out for. feeling quite weird about it myself haha

3 Comments
 

Navigating a summer analyst role while working alongside peers who are younger or at the same age but in more senior positions can feel a bit awkward, but it's not uncommon, especially in industries like investment banking. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some tips to handle this dynamic effectively:

  1. Adopt a Professional Mindset:
    Treat everyone, regardless of age or experience, with respect and professionalism. Focus on the work and your performance rather than the age or career stage of your colleagues. Remember, you're there to learn and contribute.

  2. Leverage Their Experience:
    If these peers are already full-time analysts, they can be a valuable resource. Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance. Their insights can help you navigate the internship more effectively.

  3. Avoid Overthinking the Age Factor:
    Age differences are less relevant in professional settings. What matters is your ability to perform, learn, and build relationships. Confidence in your skills and a positive attitude will help you fit in seamlessly.

  4. Focus on Building Relationships:
    Use this as an opportunity to strengthen your network. These peers might already have a good understanding of the firm's culture and expectations, and building rapport with them can be beneficial for your learning and future opportunities.

  5. Stay Humble and Open to Feedback:
    Even if you feel more experienced due to your academic background, remember that these analysts have practical, on-the-job experience. Be open to their feedback and willing to learn from them.

  6. Be Mindful of Dynamics:
    While it's great to build relationships, avoid any behavior that might come across as competitive or dismissive. Instead, focus on collaboration and teamwork.

  7. Embrace the Opportunity:
    This situation is a chance to showcase your adaptability and professionalism. By excelling in your role and maintaining a positive attitude, you'll leave a strong impression, regardless of the age dynamics.

Ultimately, the key is to focus on your own performance and growth while fostering a collaborative and respectful environment with your colleagues.

Sources: The Do's and Don'ts for Summer Analyst, Advice for summer and return offer rate?, Morgan Stanley's advice to summer analysts

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

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