US Target Junior Recruiting - Asking for Advice

International student at a US target. Background in strategy consulting and lower middle market PE (US + Asia). I had originally planned to recruit for consulting junior summer, but realistically I don’t think I have a shot in the US because very few firms sponsor outside MBB. So I’m pivoting into finance and trying to position correctly for 2026.

Goal: A junior summer role that maximizes chances of staying in the US full-time after graduation.

Currently:

• Prepping IB technicals
• Networking with alumni in IB/GE/Private Credit
• Open to US and HK/SG if it strengthens the path back to the US

Questions:

1. For internationals who wanted to stay in the US long-term, did you go APAC IB → lateral to US or aim for US IB directly? Which path worked more reliably?
2. Is private credit / growth equity realistic at the undergrad level for internationals, or is IB the more stable entry point?
3. Would it make sense to:
   • Try 2027 on-cycle and push recruiting a year, or
   • Do a one-year UK master’s to reset recruiting and improve sponsorship chances?

Not looking for prestige takes. Just want to make the smartest move to secure long-term US sponsorship.

Appreciate any insight from people who have gone through this.