Delaying grad by a semester, dumb or no

whats up wso first time post here so any advice is much appreciated.  long story short I'm a sophmore transfer at nyc semitarget and was wondering what the technicalities of delaying graduation are.  I would recruit for 2028 cycle I guess but on my resume be graduating December 2027.  I guess just for SA recruiting how much does it negatively impact my chances? Would I start working in January or in June with the rest of the 28 class?   I have a good reason to stay technically as I would need the extra sem for a BS in finance instead of just a concentration because I'm a transfer.  doing the extra sem would technically make me like a freshman I guess, and give me a better resume as far as Clubs/societies and Internships/case competition.  I just don't know how unorthodox it is and how banks look at you and the questions they might ask you.  I've read some forums here about it but they somewhat just talk about reasons to stay and not so much the technicalities of it, so I guess the more specific the advice the better.  sorry for the long message but thanks if you read this far. 

4 Comments
 

Given your reason, being a transfer with the extra sem being "necessary," I'd say go for it. Chances are you'll perform better during recruiting if you devote the extra time you have to prepare. Also, think about 10/20 years' time; I doubt you'll regret having an extra year of college/life before the corporate grind starts.  

 
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I've known people that didn't get offers and extended just so they could recruit again so I don't see an issue with it all. Especially since your a transfer and you have an easy way to explain it, I don't see it being an issue at all (not all credits transferred, etc.) 

Those that stay an extra semester have more work experience and time to network so I think it's a win-win overall. I've never known of any banks looking down upon people that stay an extra semester, I guess it would be an issue if your GPA was super low but then you wouldn't be in a interview situation in the first place. 

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights on delaying graduation for SA recruiting:

  1. Advantages of Delaying Graduation:

    • Extended Preparation Time: Delaying graduation allows you to enter the SA recruiting season with a better understanding of the process, more time to practice modeling, and prep for IB.
    • Improved GPA: You can use the extra semester to raise your GPA, which can enhance your resume.
    • Networking Opportunities: More time to network and get your name in front of teams at various banks.
  2. Technicalities and Impact:

    • Resume and Graduation Date: You would list your graduation date as December 2027 on your resume. This makes you eligible for the 2028 SA recruiting cycle.
    • Recruitment Timeline: Banks like Evercore, BAML, JPM, WF, and GS have delayed recruiting to the summer, so you should still have plenty of opportunities. MM's like Houlihan and Jefferies also recruit in summer/fall.
    • Start Date: Typically, SA positions start in June, aligning with the rest of the 2028 class. Your full-time start date would likely be the same as others in your class, even if you graduate in December.
  3. Perception by Banks:

    • Legitimate Reasons: Having a valid reason, such as needing the extra semester for a BS in finance due to being a transfer, is generally well-received.
    • Resume Enhancement: The extra semester can help you build a stronger resume with more clubs, societies, internships, and case competitions.
    • Unorthodox Path: While it might seem unorthodox, many students delay graduation for various reasons, and banks are accustomed to seeing this. They might ask about your reasons, so be prepared to explain your decision clearly and confidently.
  4. Advice from WSO Threads:

    • Networking: Start networking early and heavily. Use platforms like Handshake and cold email boutique IB firms in your area.
    • Backup Plans: Have a backup plan in case you don't secure an SA position. Consider internships in related fields like investment consulting or asset management.

In summary, delaying graduation can be a strategic move if it allows you to better prepare for SA recruiting and improve your resume. Banks are generally understanding if you have a legitimate reason and can articulate it well.

Sources: Missed SA 2019 recruiting - delay graduation for SA 2020?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/will-2020-recruiting-ft-and-sa-be-accelerated-or-be-more-relaxed?customgpt=1, How to Approach 2020 SA Recruiting as a Junior Transfer to a Target, Should I delay graduation for 1 semester or graduate? (Potentially salvageable situation), 2019 Sumer Analyst Recruiting Starts

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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