Lateral from low/mid “BB” to GS/MS?

So nontarget here who accepted summer analyst IBD offer from a RBC/UBS/CS/DB/WF tier bank. I really want to do PE, especially a MF or something of that nature, but am kind of scared that because of the quality of my undergrad and quality of my bank, I wouldn’t have a shot. Is it possible or feasible to try to lateral after summer analyst or after one year to a GS/MS and what does that process look like? Any advice or recommendations from someone who has made that leap? Thank you 

20 Comments
 

If you looked at other threads you would know that lateraling is always an option. From RBC/CS/DB is going to be tough if aiming for GS/MS, I would network extensively with them but also include EB's, JPM, and BAML. 

A lot of good info on lateraling on here, just do some digging. Good luck

 
Controversial

RBC and CS are a clear step above UBS, DB, and WF... not sure why they're included here. CS is an undisputed BB and wouldn't be a stretch to lateral to a GS/MS given the hot lateral market right now if you're in a strong group (sponsors, M&A, tech, industrials), same goes for RBC. 

UBS, DB, WF are a clear notch below and get less respect so will be more difficult but it happens. People lateral up all the time, wouldn't listen to the interns/prospects here blabbering based on WSO rankings

 

If your goal is to go to a MF, realistically the only place I wouldn't advise you to leave asap is CS. Historically punch above their weight class in PE recruiting (honestly grouping them with these other banks is like, absurd). RBC is definitely on the rise (in reputation and league tables) but tough to place at a MF given where they play in the market. I would try to get out of DB/UBS/WF within your first year if you want to be at a MF.

 

RBC is seriously overrated in this forum. Just look at the league tables posted a few days ago. They’re lower than DB and significantly lower than UBS and CS. Order goes 1)CS 2)UBS 3)DB 4)RBC. The numbers tell the story.

 

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