Might have already struck out on SA recruiting, need advice going forward
I'm a Singaporean student currently studying in Oxbridge (incoming second year). SA27 recruiting for HK/SG and London is almost over and I haven't gotten any first rounds, apart from one telephone interview despite applying to just about everything.
Slightly demoralised although I understand this is due to competition being better/might not have performed as well for HVs/OAs. I interned at a MM PE firm in Singapore this summer and thought it would have been sufficient for apps.
What should my next steps be moving forward? Seriously considering taking a placement year next year to grind off-cycle internships in Singapore. Thanks
following (same boat)
Based on the highest ranked content on WSO, here's what you need to know about your situation:
Don't panic - you still have solid options ahead.
Your MM PE internship is actually strong experience, and being at Oxbridge puts you in a good position. The SA recruiting cycle being competitive doesn't mean your finance career is over.
Immediate Next Steps:1. Aggressive Networking Push Start networking immediately for off-cycle opportunities. Based on WSO's top networking advice, you need to be "persistent and hungry" with your outreach. Target analysts, associates, VPs, and MDs across banks in both London and Asia. Don't just talk to junior people - have the confidence to reach out to senior bankers who can actually guarantee you interviews.
2. Consider the Placement Year Strategy Taking a gap year to secure off-cycle internships in Singapore could be smart. This gives you: - More substantial finance experience - Better positioning for SA28 recruiting - Time to build your network in Asia - Opportunity to improve your story and technical skills
3. Prepare for SA28 Recruiting If you go the placement year route, you'll be recruiting for SA28 with significantly stronger experience. The timeline means you'd start networking and applications in your third year, which actually aligns well with having more internship experience under your belt.
Key Considerations:Off-Cycle Opportunities: These are less structured but can be just as valuable. Singapore and Hong Kong have decent off-cycle markets, especially at MM firms.
Return Offer Strategy: Whatever internship you land next, treat it like your life depends on getting a return offer. As WSO content emphasizes, having a return offer is the "golden ticket" that opens doors elsewhere.
Your Oxbridge credentials combined with PE experience already puts you ahead of many candidates. Sometimes the timing just doesn't work out, but that doesn't reflect your potential in finance.
Sources: How to Navigate FT Recruiting: Learn from My Successes/Failures, 20 Most Frequently Asked Questions - London Edition, SA 2024 Recruitment Process Reflection, Am I screwed if I don't have an offer for SA 2019?, Getting an S&T Return Offer - A Survival Guide for Future Interns
London is almost over??
Offers keep going out till November
Ask the same question if you have nothing by Christina’s
not about offers though, it's about how many of us don't even have interviews at this stage. even though some ACs and offers are out, what are the chances for those of us without interviews (genuine question)?
Just need to be patient and prepare
Sometimes banks try to fill up the diversity spots first so they can shape their class better
Most of the people I know who got Evercore ACs were diversity for example
Of course, having a backup plan is always good, but can afford to give up 2-3 months before the cycle is over
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