Search Fund Internships

Hi, I'm an undergrad at a target school interested in interning for a search fund this semester. I've been cold-emailing 50+ emails, applying through Handshake, and Searchfunder but seem to be having no luck. Am I too late into the semester or doing something wrong? Looking for advice, and if anyone has any good leads, would appreciate that a lot as well. Thanks guys. 

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable steps and advice for your situation:

  1. Persistence is Key: Cold emailing is a numbers game. If you've sent 50+ emails, consider increasing that number significantly. Some users have reported sending out hundreds of emails before landing an internship. For example, one individual applied to 288 internships and eventually succeeded.

  2. Refine Your Cold Emails: Ensure your emails are short, personal, and not overly formal. Avoid generic templates. Mention something specific about the recipient's background or firm to show genuine interest. Follow up every 5-9 days if you don't get a response, as persistence often pays off.

  3. Expand Your Search: If you're not getting responses, broaden your target list. Look beyond search funds and consider related fields like private equity, venture capital, or boutique investment firms. Platforms like LinkedIn, alumni networks, and niche job boards can help you discover more opportunities.

  4. Leverage Networking: Reach out to alumni or professionals in your network for informational interviews. Even if these don't lead to direct offers, they can provide valuable insights and connections. Some users have found success by simply asking professionals about their experiences and advice.

  5. Timing and Flexibility: While it might feel late in the semester, it's not impossible. Highlight your willingness to take on unpaid roles or flexible hours if necessary. This can make you a more attractive candidate for firms with limited budgets or last-minute needs.

  6. Polish Your Resume and Pitch: Constantly refine your resume and elevator pitch. Tailor them to highlight your interest in search funds and relevant skills. If possible, include a stock pitch or case study to demonstrate your analytical abilities.

If you're looking for specific leads, consider exploring platforms like Searchfunder more deeply or reaching out to smaller, lesser-known funds that might not have formal recruiting processes. Keep pushing, and remember, you only need one "yes" to make it work!

Sources: How to get a Hedge Fund Internship, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/cold-emailing-to-ask-for-internship-template-advice?customgpt=1, Hedge Fund Careers: Getting a Hedge Fund Job Out of Undergrad and Beyond, Going from a non-target with low GPA to landing a hedge fund Internship, Hedge Fund Careers: Getting a Hedge Fund Job Out of Undergrad and Beyond

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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