Last chance for Investment Banking?
Need some advice on my path moving forward. Recruiting this year was much more brutal than my sophomore year. Obviously, I feel its really make or break for a future in banking based on my upcoming summer experience. I already have made it to two superdays this season and have been burned on both; Citi & SunTrust Robinson Humphrey. I still have some opportunities on the table, but nothing that I'd shake a stick at; KeyBanc Capital Markets, Local Boutique #1 (Specializes in M&A), Local Boutique #2, Local PE firm ($300mil).
Now I do have options, but I feel like I'm choosing between which cousin I want to take to my Alabama hs prom. Currently I'm a Junior, I don't come from a target, have a 3.6 GPA, but I have had an internship in finance the past two summers, one wealth management, one in equity research. I've taken the initiative to learn modeling from a third party. I'm not necessarily shooting for BB, I enjoy the small group comradery and culture of EBs and reputable MMs, but I would definitely take an opportunity to test the waters at a BB.
Do I still have a potential future in IB if I play my cards right? Also, I have opportunities as a financial analyst in both Home Depot and Delta Airlines HQs, at what point should I consider those over a banking boutique in a very middle market southern town? Thanks for the advice you filthy animals.
"Do I still have a potential future in IB if I play my cards right?"
Maybe, but step 1 is to get rid of your sense of entitlement. You may feel like you're choosing between which cousin you want to ask to prom but guess what? 1) all the "hot girls" (to continue the metaphor) already turned you down, and 2) it's not clear any of your "cousins" want to go to prom with you anyway. Do your best to get offers first, then evaluate which one is the best fit later.
Sorry if any of this is blunt. It just rubs me the wrong way when college students think they're too good for a firm in an industry in which they have zero experience.