Major Matter for On-Cycle?
Hey everyone, current undergrad here who will be joining a group at one of EVR/PJT/GS for FT that is notorious for good on-cycle placements (please do not start comparing these firms and which has the best exits), and am also an econ major at a non-HYP ivy. I know the discussion around major has typically reverted back to "it doesn't matter at an ivy" for IB recruiting, but would love to get thoughts on if this holds true for on-cycle placements as well (assuming GPA, test scores, etc. are all good). Would a switch to something like history or philosophy be a meaningful downgrade in the eyes of HHs or interviewers?
Thanks!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, your major generally doesn't matter much for on-cycle placements, especially if you're already at a strong group like EVR/PJT/GS and have a solid GPA and test scores. The focus for headhunters (HHs) and interviewers is more on your work experience, deal exposure, and overall performance in your current role rather than your undergraduate major.
That said, switching to a major like history or philosophy wouldn't necessarily be a "meaningful downgrade" as long as you maintain strong academic performance. In fact, some firms value diverse academic backgrounds for the unique perspectives they bring. However, keep in mind that a major in economics or something more quantitative might give you a slight edge in terms of perceived technical readiness, but this gap can easily be bridged with preparation and strong interview performance.
Ultimately, your current position at a top group and your ability to demonstrate maturity, raw horsepower, and interest in private equity will carry far more weight than your major.
Sources: On-Cycle, IB Offers, Hair Splitting, Depression, and "The Path", Does GPA matter for Private Equity?, Economic Consulting Q&A - Past experience at major firms, On-Cycle, IB Offers, Hair Splitting, Depression, and "The Path", Do the humanities have value in today's banking world?
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You’re telling me that you’re starting FT in two months, in other words, you’re in your last semester of college, and you still have time to change your major / drop a major?
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