Rising senior looking for advice

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your background and experience provide a solid foundation for pursuing IB roles, even with a 3.6 GPA. Here's how you can position yourself effectively:

1. Leverage Your Internships

• Your experience in investment management, private equity, and managing a portfolio with a former asset manager is highly valuable. Highlight these on your resume, emphasizing any quantifiable achievements (e.g., portfolio performance, deals worked on, or specific contributions).

2. Target Middle Market (MM) and Boutique Banks

• While a 3.6 GPA might not be ideal for bulge bracket (BB) banks, many reputable MM and boutique banks place a higher emphasis on experience and networking. Your internships align well with the skill set they seek.

3. Network Aggressively

• Networking is key, especially coming from a non-target or with a GPA below 3.7. Reach out to alumni, former colleagues, and professionals at firms you're targeting. Use LinkedIn, cold emails, and informational interviews to build connections.

4. Consider Regional Banks

• Regional banks often have less stringent GPA requirements and can provide excellent deal experience. They can also serve as a stepping stone to lateral into larger firms later.

5. Prepare for Technical and Behavioral Interviews

• Ensure you're well-prepared for technical questions (e.g., financial modeling, valuation methods) and behavioral questions. Your diverse internship experience should give you plenty of material to craft compelling stories.

6. Broaden Your Search

• If IB roles prove challenging, consider roles in corporate finance, financial analyst positions, or even consulting. These can provide relevant experience and allow you to lateral into IB later.

7. Highlight Your Strengths

• Focus on your strong internship experience, leadership skills, and any unique aspects of your background. Downplay the GPA by emphasizing your major GPA (if higher) or other achievements.

8. Timing and Persistence

• Start applying early and be persistent. FT recruiting can be competitive, but with your experience and a strategic approach, you have a good shot.

If you play your cards right, you can still break into IB. Focus on networking, targeting the right firms, and preparing thoroughly for interviews. Good luck!

Sources: What to do as a rising senior at a non-target with no IB experience, Going from a non-target with low GPA to landing a hedge fund Internship, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/low-gpa-but-have-experience-in-the-field-what-do-i-do?customgpt=1, Breaking Into Banking: Your Timetable is Everything, You want a summer analyst offer? Here's how...