BB WM SA - Disclosing Grad Year Extension + SA-to-SA Office Transfer

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can approach your situation:

1. Timing of Disclosure for Graduation Year Extension

• Wait Until You’ve Built Rapport: It’s generally advisable to wait until you’ve started your internship and established a good relationship with your team and staffer. This ensures that your performance and work ethic are the primary factors influencing their perception of you.
• Be Transparent but Strategic: Once you’ve built rapport, you can disclose your plans to extend your graduation year. Frame it positively, emphasizing how the additional coursework (e.g., data science) will enhance your skill set and make you a stronger candidate for the firm in the long term.
• Avoid Surprises: If you wait until after the return offer call, it might come across as withholding information. Transparency, when timed correctly, can work in your favor.

2. Return Offer to a Different Office

• Summer-to-Summer Transfers Are Possible but Rare: While most internal moves happen at the full-time level, summer-to-summer transfers can occur, especially if you have a compelling reason (e.g., extended graduation timeline or a strong preference for a larger office like NYC, SF, or Chicago).
• Leverage Your Network: During your internship, build connections with professionals in the office you’re targeting. Express your interest in transferring for the next summer and seek their advice or support.
• Communicate Early with HR: Once you’ve secured a return offer, communicate your interest in transferring offices for the following summer. Highlight how the move aligns with your career goals and the firm’s needs.

Additional Tips:

• Graduation Date on Resume: Ensure your updated graduation date is reflected on your resume and any official documents submitted to the firm. This avoids discrepancies during background checks.
• Performance is Key: Your performance during the internship will be the most critical factor in securing a return offer and facilitating any office transfer. Focus on excelling in your current role.

By approaching these matters strategically and maintaining open communication, you can navigate the situation effectively. Good luck!

Sources: International Student - Chance of getting an IBD internship in London?, Got a SA Offer at BB...but I'm a current junior help!!, Should I delay graduation for 1 semester or graduate? (Potentially salvageable situation), 2019 FT Analyst Recruiting Timeline, My Four Year Plan