Keep recruiting or reset with a UK masters?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to consider:

1. US Recruiting Challenges:

   • As an international student, the visa situation adds a significant hurdle for US full-time (FT) recruiting. Many firms are hesitant to sponsor visas, especially for non-target candidates.
   • Your background (CS + Econ, boutique IB, Deloitte IB, search fund experience) is solid, but the non-target school and 3.5 GPA might make it harder to stand out in the competitive US market.

2. UK Master's as a Reset:

   • A Master's in Finance at a UK target (e.g., LSE, Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial) can provide a strong reset for your career.
   • London IB recruiting is more open to master's students, and networking is less emphasized compared to the US.
   • Post-Brexit, international students in the UK benefit from a 2-year post-study work visa, making it easier to secure a job and transition to a work-sponsored visa.
   • London offers opportunities in tech-focused groups, and the cost of living is generally lower than NYC.

3. Key Considerations:

   • If you’re passionate about staying in the US and have the bandwidth to continue applying, you could keep pushing for FT roles. However, given the visa challenges and your timeline (graduating next spring), this path is uncertain.
   • The UK master's route offers a clearer path to reset your recruiting efforts, especially if you target top programs with strong placement records in IB.

4. Advice from Similar Cases:

   • Many WSO users in similar situations have found success by pursuing a UK master's, leveraging the brand name and alumni network to break into London IB.
   • Others have noted that spamming FT applications in the US without a clear strategy often leads to burnout, especially for internationals.

Recommendation:

If you’re open to relocating and want a more structured path, the UK master's route is a strong option. It aligns well with your timeline, visa needs, and career goals in IB or tech-focused groups. However, if you’re set on staying in the US, focus your FT applications on firms known to sponsor visas and consider networking aggressively with alumni or professionals in tech-focused IB groups.

Sources: MSF Class of 2018, One day to decide: US or UK?