Doing Master’s but lost

Doing an MSC in UK imperial, but cant help but feel lost. I am from the US and am 25 already, my cohort is mostly 21-22 yo kids. I always have intrusive thoughts on what about I cannot score a good job after graduating ( in 1 year only even ). Took a loan to be here so i am financially tight.

Now applying to IB jobs but looking at failsafe plans too. But dont actually know what is available. For eg if i apply to IB in JPM i cannot apply to middle office stuff too.

Am i just screwed? The best i can do is apply and pray?

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First, don't do the age comparision bro. 21-22 YO entering industry burn out to shitty corparate roles all the time. Most MDs and global heads I talked to all entered IB later in life typically through MBA.

FWIW, a JPM MD in London yesterday said they "don't take masters, we just poach from other banks or accountancy firms and demote them" (other than from SA programs pipeline). Don't be too selective on banks/firms right out of school. Your first job doesn't define you. Get into what you can and lateral. Lot better than getting GS at 21, KKR at 23 and burning out to some random shit at 27.

 

Agreed with the comment above - do not compare yourself to others, focus on what you enjoy and understand what you want to get out of the initial years of your career (I appreciate that money will play a significant role in this decision-making given your position). The people who I have met who have flourished the most in their positions (IB/PE) are those who have not had the most direct path and have matured into the positions they are in now, even though it may have taken a longer time. 

 

Yep - i understand that but its just that im afraid that i sacrificed so much just to not get a job. Not necessarily BB IB but now i am pessimistic about every apps and even thinking applying to middle offices

 

I totally understand your emotion, most of us have been in that same boat. It's an ultra-competitive market and there is no shame in not entering directly. While I would recommend having backup options, I would not advise pursuing middle-office positions if your goal is to ultimately get into IB. Have a look at applying to different consulting firms, Big 4, and corporate development (I believe some healthcare firms offer graduate tracks in the UK). You will have a stronger profile and a better story to tell for latering. 

 

Not really for ib , but am/ s&t stuff.

These don’t have much adjacent work?

Good advice though, thanks!

 

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