Need advice on where to go from here.

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a roadmap to help you navigate your situation and make an informed decision:

1. Evaluate Your Priorities

• It’s clear you value financial security and work-life balance. Banking is demanding, especially in the early years, but it can provide financial stability and open doors to other career paths (e.g., private equity, corporate development, or strategy roles) that may align better with your long-term goals.
• Reflect on whether you’re willing to make short-term sacrifices for the potential long-term benefits of banking. If not, consider exploring roles in corporate finance, corporate development, or F500 strategy, which may offer a better balance.

2. Leverage Your Current Internship

• Even if your current group isn’t ideal, focus on excelling in your role. Strong performance will lead to solid references and a resume boost.
• Use this time to build relationships internally. Networking within your firm could lead to opportunities in other groups or departments that align more with your interests.

3. Networking Strategy

• You’re already prioritizing networking, which is great. Keep targeting 2-3 meaningful conversations per week, but ensure you’re reaching out to individuals in investment banking roles at firms you’re interested in.
• When networking, focus on building genuine connections. Ask thoughtful questions about their career paths, challenges, and advice for someone in your position.
• Don’t forget to follow up and maintain these relationships over time.

4. Recruiting for Full-Time Roles

• Timing: Recruiting for full-time roles typically starts early in the fall. Be prepared with an updated resume, polished technical skills, and a clear story about your career goals.
• Target Firms: Focus on middle-market (MM) or boutique banks if you feel BBs might be out of reach. These firms often value diverse experiences and may offer a better work-life balance.
• Preparation: Use resources like WSO’s Investment Banking Prep guides to refine your technical and behavioral interview skills. Mock interviews and resume reviews can also be invaluable.

5. Alternative Career Paths

• If banking doesn’t feel like the right fit, consider roles in corporate development, F500 finance, or strategy. These positions often provide financial security, a better work-life balance, and opportunities to work on high-impact projects.

6. Long-Term Perspective

• Remember, your first job doesn’t define your entire career. Focus on building a strong foundation, gaining transferable skills, and keeping an open mind about where your career might take you.

Final Thoughts:

Banking is within reach if you’re willing to put in the effort to network, prepare, and position yourself effectively. However, it’s equally important to align your career choices with your personal values and long-term goals. If you decide banking isn’t the right fit, there are plenty of other rewarding paths in finance that can provide both stability and fulfillment. Keep networking, stay focused, and trust the process!

Sources: MBA Internship Recruiting - Corporate Development/Strategy Q&A, Freshmen: What to do during your freshman year summer, In Search of Wisdom, Guide for Investment Banking Full-Time Recruiting, Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto)