Washu STL?
Conflicting views on Washu? Some say Target for Chicago ib and everyone who wants it, gets it. Whilst some say it’s dogshit. I want Chicago ib btw.
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Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) has a mixed reputation when it comes to breaking into investment banking, particularly in Chicago. Here's a breakdown based on the WSO threads:
Semi-Target Status: WashU is often considered a semi-target school for investment banking. This means it doesn't have the same level of on-campus recruitment as some of the traditional target schools, but it still places a significant number of students into investment banking roles.
Improving Placement: Over recent years, there has been a noticeable improvement in the placement of WashU students into investment banking roles. This is particularly true for elite boutiques (EB) rather than bulge bracket (BB) firms. Firms like Moelis, Lazard, and Guggenheim have been noted for hiring WashU graduates.
Regional Considerations: For Chicago specifically, WashU, being in the Midwest, does have a geographical advantage. However, the extent to which it is targeted by Chicago investment banks can vary, and while some students have successfully broken into the Chicago IB scene, it might not be as straightforward as at a traditional target school.
Student Effort and Networking: Success in landing roles at investment banks from WashU often comes down to individual effort, particularly in networking. The school's growing reputation may aid in this, but students typically need to be proactive in reaching out to alumni and recruiters.
Mixed Opinions: As with many schools that are not traditional targets, opinions on WashU's effectiveness in placing students into investment banking can be mixed. Some may find it excellent due to personal success or successful peers, while others may find it lacking compared to more established target schools.
If your goal is to break into investment banking in Chicago, WashU could be a viable option, but it would be wise to be prepared for significant networking and to leverage any available on-campus recruiting opportunities. Additionally, considering other schools known for strong placement into Chicago IB might also be beneficial if you have options.
Sources: Undergrad: WashU vs IU Kelley vs UVA vs UNC Chapel Hill, WashU/WUSTL, Booth vs. Columbia for MBA, Why is WUSTL viewed in such a negative light on this forum?, UChicago's true rank, prestige and value for IB
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