Don't know what to do advice needed

Senior international student at a US target (not well known in Asia tho). Had IB/PE experience coming into junior SA recruiting. Unfortunately didn't land EB/BB/MM MF PE for junior summer and interned at a tiny tiny LMM PE shop in a niche geographical region. Performed well but they didn't promise a return offer since they aren't sure where the firm will be next year. I know it would be extremely difficult to recruit BB/EB FT and I am honestly looking for any opportunities in IB/PE. Long term goal would be reputable IB/PE/HF in Asia, ideally in Shanghai/HK/SG types of cities. I feel really lost now and don't know what to do. My parents always wanted me to apply to grad school since having a master degree is crucial for recruiting in China/HK, but I know I probably won't get into a top program since I've spent so much time on recruiting and not focusing too much on school.

Should I start prepping my grad school application now or network like crazy with IB/PE shops and try to find an opportunity?

2 Comments
 

Dicta aut est reprehenderit. Accusamus dolor et libero perspiciatis qui. Nulla voluptas incidunt optio ex. Et consectetur consequatur omnis rerum id.

Career Advancement Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 08 97.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 02 97.3%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.8%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.3%

Professional Growth Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • JPMorgan No 97.3%

Total Avg Compensation

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (50) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (25) $178
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (75) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”