Any hope for me?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable steps and advice for your situation:

1. Networking:

   • Start Early: Begin networking as soon as possible. Reach out to alumni, attend industry events, and leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your areas of interest (AM/ER, Corporate Banking, Credit, Corp Dev).
   • Be Proactive: Don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Actively seek out informational interviews and ask for advice and insights from industry professionals.

2. Internships:

   • Find Any Relevant Experience: Even if SA2025 recruiting is wrapped up, look for any finance-related internships or part-time roles. Smaller firms, regional boutiques, or even unpaid internships can provide valuable experience.
   • Leverage Your Current Experience: Highlight your legal and corporate finance internships. Emphasize any finance-related tasks you performed and how they sparked your interest in the field.

3. Technical Skills:

   • Prepare for Technical Interviews: Start studying technical finance concepts and practice common interview questions. Resources like the WSO Technical Guide can be very helpful.
   • Certifications and Courses: Consider taking relevant courses or certifications (e.g., CFA Level 1, financial modeling courses) to bolster your resume and demonstrate your commitment to finance.

4. Full-Time Recruiting:

   • Be Persistent: Full-time recruiting can be highly competitive, but persistence pays off. Keep applying, networking, and improving your skills.
   • Target Smaller Firms: If larger firms are not hiring, focus on smaller firms or regional boutiques where competition might be less intense.

5. Gap Year Strategy:

   • Consider a Gap Year: If you graduate without a full-time offer, consider taking a gap year to intern, network, and further develop your skills. This can help fill any resume gaps and make you a more attractive candidate for future opportunities.

6. Long-Term Goals:

   • Stay Flexible: While you have long-term goals of working in Corp Dev or Strategy for a F500 or FAANG, remain open to various opportunities that can provide relevant experience and help you build a strong foundation in finance.

Remember, many professionals have successfully transitioned into finance from different backgrounds. Your proactive approach and willingness to adapt will be key to your success. Best of luck!

Sources: 2019 Investment Banking Full Time Recruiting - Do I Have a Chance?, Junior In College Who Missed Summer 2022 Recruiting, What will FT Recruiting look like this year?, A little bit of hope for those still recruiting!, My FT Recruiting Process