Medical Issue, Low GPA at Target, Fucked?
Have a 3.2-3.3 GPA right now at one of Dyson/Amherst/Georgetown/Dartmouth. If you go to my school you might know I am. I'm blind in both eyes due to very rare genetic disease. I use accessibility software and a mixture of synthetic speech and sometimes braille to read forums and such. School admin fucked me over by not giving me accommodations until 6 months after I went from legal blindness to permanent blindness due to bureacratic bullshit, I had to attend 2 dozen+ meetings, so I failed two classes due to SDS giving me zero accommodations and the profs refusing to give any accessibility without SDS approval. Was also in the hospital for a month with tuberculosis and seizures due to infection with an as-yet unknown illness which didn't help, but I don't think IB people will take that as an excuse and I'm worried it might come off as petulant and whiny so I've just kept quiet about it so far. Removing the failed classes, I have a 3.82.
Am taking a gap year to get eye transplants, recover, maybe do another internship, so I'll be recruiting for junior year 2027. Did two search funds and a boutique IB, have F100 Corp Dev and physical commodity trading offer at ABCD secured for next summer but I'll most likely have to turn them down due to recovering from the surgery. I guess I could do it, but I'd do a shit job at it. I'm pretty active on campus, having leadership positions at a stupidly selective finance club on campus, student assembly, the student newspaper, etc. I also got a SAT of 1590 which I put on my resume to show I'm not a complete idiot.
Talked to a bunch of alums across the street and I've seen answers all over the place, ranging from I won't be dinged as long as I leave it off my resume and explain it in an interview to I won't be dinged if I leave it on and explain it to HR ahead of time to I'm fucked. I can take summer classes to raise it to a 3.5, but that would be expensive as hell, like 15000 dollars, and my family can't afford that.
I was originally aiming for BB/EB IB but with my low GPA I don't know if that's possible, so I'm really pining for anything at this point. MM IB, FP&A, S&T, Commodities, etc. The dream is and has always been BB/EB IB though, and given that I have an entire year to do fuck-all I will be grinding my ass off networking. Is it possible for me to explain away my GPA or am I truly fucked? I've heard one analyst I called with say even stage 4 cancer isn't enough nowadays to excuse below a 3.5 GPA due to grade inflation and that I should focus on back office for a few years so I'm scared as fuck. And should I leave my GPA on my resume? Apologies for spelling errors.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, your situation is challenging but not insurmountable. Here's a breakdown of actionable advice:
GPA Explanation: Your story is compelling and demonstrates resilience. While some may dismiss excuses, others will appreciate the context, especially if you frame it as overcoming adversity. Highlight the 3.82 GPA excluding failed classes in interviews, but avoid putting it on your resume unless explicitly asked. Instead, focus on your strong SAT score and leadership roles to showcase your intellectual and personal capabilities.
Networking: Networking will be your lifeline. Use your gap year to build relationships with alumni and professionals in the industry. Your unique story can be a differentiator if presented positively. Focus on boutique and middle-market firms initially, as they may be more understanding of your circumstances.
Skill Development: Use your gap year to enhance your technical skills. Consider certifications like CFA Level 1 or financial modeling courses to bolster your resume. This will also demonstrate your commitment to the field.
Internships: If possible, take on internships that align with your career goals. Even if you can't commit to a full-time role due to recovery, part-time or remote opportunities can add value to your resume.
Resume Strategy: Leave your GPA off your resume if it's below the typical cutoff (3.5). Instead, emphasize your leadership roles, internships, and SAT score. Be prepared to address your GPA in interviews with a concise, honest explanation that focuses on your recovery and determination.
Target Firms: While BB/EB IB may be challenging with a low GPA, don't rule them out entirely. Focus on firms with a reputation for valuing diverse experiences and resilience. Boutique and MM firms are more likely to appreciate your unique background.
Summer Classes: If raising your GPA to 3.5 is financially unfeasible, focus on other ways to strengthen your profile. Your leadership roles, internships, and networking efforts can compensate for a lower GPA.
Mindset: Stay positive and confident. Your story is one of perseverance, and many professionals will respect that. Focus on what you can control and continue to build your skills and network.
Remember, while GPA is a significant factor, it's not the only one. Your unique story, combined with strategic networking and skill-building, can help you achieve your goals.
Sources: How to explain a low gpa, Disclosing disability, You want a summer analyst offer? Here's how..., Does GPA matter for Private Equity?, Easy A classes?
Just another student so not sure how much this helps but I'm from a non target and have heard alums with 3.5s make it in the industry. I think with your story, target and SAT score to show your on your shit, you'll be fine. Theguy I'm speaking of networked w everyone on the street tho so might have to do that. Props to you for still going at it . Your school doing some bs
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