Worth it to study technicals in High School?
I am a senior in high school and was recently given a Rosenbaum and Paul investment banking book. Everyone online says you learn most things in the office during internships or whatever. Is it worth it to read it now because at some point, I will read it anyway?
I am going to Santa Clara University in the fall, so I understand I am already at a disadvantage from a prestige standpoint. Is there really anything to do right now that would help my IB journey?
Jumping into technicals early can be a smart move, especially if you're aiming for investment banking from a non-target school like Santa Clara University. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you should focus on:
Reading Rosenbaum and Pearl: Yes, it's worth it. While you’ll learn a lot on the job, having a strong foundation in valuation techniques (like DCF, comps, and precedent transactions) will give you a head start. It’s not just about knowing the material—it’s about showing initiative and passion for the field.
Networking: Since Santa Clara isn’t a traditional target school, networking will be critical. Start reaching out to alumni in investment banking or related fields. Build relationships early, and don’t wait until you’re applying for internships.
Excel and Financial Modeling Skills: Consider learning Excel and basic financial modeling. There are free resources online, or you can invest in courses like the WSO Financial Modeling Bootcamp to get a leg up.
Internships and Experience: Even if they’re not in investment banking, try to secure internships in finance-related roles. This will help you build relevant skills and make your resume stand out.
Santa Clara Investment Banking Club: If it exists, join it. According to WSO threads, while Santa Clara isn’t a target school, students have broken into IB with extra effort. Being active in such clubs can help you connect with like-minded peers and access resources.
Focus on Academics: A strong GPA (ideally 3.7+) will be crucial to overcome the non-target disadvantage.
Starting early with technicals and networking will set you apart and make your IB journey smoother. Keep hustling!
Sources: Was it worth it?, Is Banking Worth It In 2021? The Definitive WSO Poll, Cal Poly SLO for investment banking? or SJSU/SCU?, What is the future of investment banking?
Might be helpful to learn technicals, especially since you might not have too much to do over the next three or so months. Also will help you get into top finance orgs there (I'd hope anyway) and you can either stay there if the orgs place well or you can use your involvement to try and transfer. Learning them as a rising freshman (mastery not necessary just yet) will make review and prep easier later on. But if not no worries, don't have to go hardo in any manner
Considering transfer instead of spending time on technicals this early on. The former will help you way more than the latter
Studying techs should be the least of your worries in HS. Focus more on 1) transferring schools after freshman year and 2) getting bitches before you start uni
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