Seriously Underpepped for upcoming SA role.

To avoid feeling exposed and to secure that return offer, here’s what you need to focus on based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Start Small and Build Confidence

• Crush the small tasks first: Bankers value accuracy and reliability. Start by excelling at basic tasks like finding numbers, formatting slides, or adding logos to charts. Nail these before attempting more complex tasks.
• Under-promise and over-deliver: Don’t volunteer for tasks you’re not confident in yet. Instead, ask to observe or shadow when possible. For example, if a model needs to be built, ask if you can sit in while it’s being done and learn along the way.

2. Excel and PowerPoint Proficiency

• Excel Functions: Focus on mastering key functions like vlookup, hlookup, match, sumif, and basic formatting shortcuts. These are essential for efficiency.
• PowerPoint Shortcuts: Learn alignment tools, grouping, and quick formatting tricks. Clean, professional slides are a must in banking.
• Practice: Spend time setting up dummy spreadsheets and presentations to get comfortable with these tools.

3. Technical Knowledge

• Brush up on accounting basics: Understand the three primary financial statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Statement) and how they connect. This is critical for modeling and analysis.
• Learn basic valuation techniques: Discounted Cash Flow (DCF), Comparable Company Analysis (Comps), and Precedent Transactions. Even a high-level understanding will help you follow conversations and contribute meaningfully.

4. Be Proactive and Curious

• Ask smart questions: If you’re unsure about something, ask thoughtful questions that show you’re eager to learn. For example, “Can you walk me through how this ties back to the financials?”
• Take notes: Always have a notebook to jot down instructions or feedback. This shows you’re attentive and helps you avoid repeating mistakes.

5. Practice Mental Math and Brainteasers

• While not as critical during the internship, being sharp with mental math and logical problem-solving can help you stand out in impromptu situations.

6. Networking Within the Firm

• Build relationships with analysts and associates. They can be your go-to for guidance and support. Be approachable and show genuine interest in their work.

7. Stay Optimistic and Resilient

• Mistakes will happen, but how you handle them matters more. Own up, fix them quickly, and learn from the experience.

By focusing on these areas, you’ll not only avoid looking unprepared but also position yourself as a reliable and coachable team member. Remember, most interns feel overwhelmed at first—it’s how you adapt and grow that counts.

Sources: Preparing for an IB internship, An ex-Goldman Sachs insider’s 10 tips on how to sail through investment banking interviews, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/my-2-cents-on-sa-recruiting-from-a-non-target-background?customgpt=1, skills needed to prepare for SA BB vs. SA EB, What to expect/how to excel in a SA IB internship