Current Undergrad specializing in microbiology, any interview advice for Morgan Stanley or any of the big bank?

Absolutely, I'd be happy to share some advice!

1. Know Your Stuff: Make sure you're well-versed in your area of expertise, in this case, microbiology. While it might not seem directly related to finance, you never know when your unique knowledge could come in handy or set you apart from other candidates.

2. Understand the Industry: Even though your major is in Microbiology, you should have a solid understanding of the finance industry, particularly the area you're applying to. Brush up on financial concepts, current events, and Morgan Stanley's recent performance.

3. Teamwork is Key: Based on the most helpful WSO content, a key differentiator is how well you work in a team, as teamwork is an integral part of Morgan Stanley’s culture.

4. Be a Self-Starter: It’s important to complete an assigned task thoroughly, but it’s differentiating if you go above and beyond. Show initiative and a willingness to take on extra responsibilities.

5. Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Banks like Morgan Stanley often ask behavioral questions to understand your personality, decision-making process, and how you handle challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.

6. Be Yourself: Authenticity goes a long way in interviews. Be honest about your experiences and interests. Remember, interviews are as much about finding a good fit for you as they are for the company.

Remember, the goal is not just to impress the interviewer with your knowledge, but also to show them that you're a well-rounded individual who would fit well within their team. Good luck!

Sources: Morgan Stanley's advice to summer analysts, How to Ace the Goldman Sachs Interview, Medical School --> IBanking, Morgan Stanley S&T SA 2020