Paths to Pursue after Graduation – keep trying for IB or something else?

It sounds like you're in a tough spot, but don't lose hope—there are still viable paths forward. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable steps and alternative paths to consider:

1. Keep Pushing for IB

• Lateral Hiring: Many firms hire laterally throughout the year, especially at smaller boutiques or regional banks. Keep networking aggressively—leverage LinkedIn, alumni networks, and cold emails. Focus on smaller firms that may not have structured recruiting cycles.
• Off-Cycle Internships: Consider pursuing another internship, even if it's unpaid or at a smaller shop. Off-cycle internships can often lead to full-time offers, especially in the current market.
• Hire Veterans Programs: If you decide to join the military, many bulge brackets and middle-market banks have programs specifically designed to hire veterans. This could be a long-term strategy if you’re passionate about serving.

2. Explore Related Finance Roles

• Corporate Development/Strategy: With your strong GPA and internship experience, corporate development could be a great fit. It offers exposure to M&A and strategic initiatives, and many professionals transition from corp dev to IB later.
• Private Equity or Venture Capital: Since you already have PE internships, explore smaller funds or family offices. These roles can provide valuable deal experience and keep you in the finance ecosystem.
• Big 4 Transaction Advisory Services (TAS): TAS roles at firms like Deloitte or PwC can be a stepping stone to IB. They involve M&A advisory, valuation, and due diligence, which are highly transferable skills.

3. Military as an Officer

• Joining the military as an officer is a commendable option and can open doors to unique career paths. Programs like ROTC or Officer Candidate School (OCS) can lead to leadership roles, and the Post-9/11 GI Bill can fund an MBA at a top school later.
• After serving, you could leverage veteran hiring programs in IB or pivot to government contracting, consulting, or even entrepreneurship.

4. Alternative Finance Careers

• Asset Management or Wealth Management: These roles may not be as intense as IB but still offer strong finance exposure and client interaction.
• Fintech or Startups: If you’re open to something less traditional, fintech companies often value candidates with finance and accounting backgrounds.
• Day Trading or Proprietary Trading: If you’ve saved up some capital, you could explore trading. However, this path requires a high risk tolerance and strong technical skills.

5. Networking and Branding

• Refine Your Story: Be ready to explain why you’re still pursuing IB or why you’re considering a pivot. A compelling narrative can make a big difference in interviews.
• Expand Your Network: Reach out to alumni, former colleagues, and even professionals you don’t know. Networking is often the key to breaking into competitive fields.
• Leverage WSO Resources: Use the WSO Networking Guide and IB Prep Pack to sharpen your skills and improve your chances in interviews.

6. Long-Term Strategy

• If IB is your ultimate goal, consider working in a related field for a year or two and then reapplying. Many firms value candidates with diverse experiences, and you could re-enter as an analyst or even an associate after an MBA.

Final Thoughts

The job market is challenging, but your strong GPA, diverse internships, and determination are significant assets. If IB is truly your passion, don’t give up—keep networking, consider off-cycle opportunities, and explore lateral hiring. If you’re open to other paths, corporate development, PE, or even the military can provide rewarding careers and potentially lead back to IB in the future.

Stay resilient, and remember, many successful professionals faced setbacks early in their careers. Keep pushing forward!

Sources: Medical School --> IBanking, Lesser known MBA career options? Looking for advice on what to do post-HBS., Banking to Military, Ask Me Anything - Current Prop Trader/Advice for people wanting to make it/Breaking in, Breakdown of Post-IB Exit Opportunities