5 Comments
 

Switching to a semi-target like Vanderbilt, WashU, or UNC is a solid move for recruiting, but having a "soft" major like sociology or public relations might raise some eyebrows in high finance recruiting. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you need to know:

  1. Major Perception: While finance, economics, or STEM majors are traditionally preferred, your major won't necessarily disqualify you. Recruiters care more about your ability to demonstrate technical skills, leadership, and a genuine interest in finance.

  2. Compensate with Skills: If your major doesn’t inherently provide technical finance knowledge, you’ll need to compensate. Take relevant coursework (accounting, finance, or data analysis), pursue certifications (like CFA Level 1 or Wall Street Prep), and master technical skills like Excel and financial modeling.

  3. Networking is Key: Semi-targets thrive on alumni connections. Leverage your school’s alumni network aggressively. Reach out to alumni in finance, attend networking events, and secure informational interviews to build relationships.

  4. Internships and Extracurriculars: Your resume should reflect a strong interest in finance. Secure internships in finance-related roles, join finance clubs, and participate in case competitions to showcase your commitment.

  5. Storytelling: Be prepared to explain your major choice in interviews. Frame it as a unique perspective you bring to the table, while emphasizing the steps you’ve taken to build your finance acumen.

  6. Recruiting Timeline: SA28 recruiting is competitive and starts early. Make sure your resume, technical skills, and networking efforts are in top shape ASAP.

Your major might not be ideal, but with the right strategy, you can still position yourself as a strong candidate.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/buyside-viewpoint-from-a-fixed-income-pm?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/the-rise-of-the-semi-target?customgpt=1, 3.9 GPA from an Ivy League school in a useless major. What are my options?, Applied 19x to Elite MBA programs.....this is what I learned, Getting an S&T Return Offer - A Survival Guide for Future Interns

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

Sint qui pariatur nam nisi dicta. Et qui assumenda et et velit est perspiciatis. Ducimus voluptatem consequatur minima cum. Ea ipsa minima cumque explicabo nihil quo. Amet voluptates sequi reiciendis sint.

Sapiente voluptate sapiente tenetur enim aut cumque qui. Doloribus vitae nisi magnam harum. Dignissimos ut et voluptatem praesentium recusandae itaque cupiditate.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.2%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.2%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.6%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.2%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (43) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (75) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (67) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
6
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
7
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
8
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
9
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
10
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”