Failed to secure an IB offer - what now?

Hi everyone, I'm making this post because I wasn't able to get a summer 2025 offer at any investment banks and things are looking pretty hopeless for IB now. I'm from a non target but have a pretty strong resume and was able to secure a few super days and good amount of interviews - just never received an offer. I was never ride or die for IB and realize that most spots are filled, so I'm now wondering what my best pivot would be at this point in time considering the fact that I'd still like to work on Wallstreet.

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Same boat. It's essential now to make quick decisions. The advice I've gotten is to continue networking but expand your network to roles that are similar or "stepping stones," such as Big 4 TAS, Rating agency credit analyst, etc, or other front office roles such as Equity Research S&T, corporate banking, etc. Additionally, I'd still keep hammering the banking apps and network. It's most likely too late to get an offer from Goldman or Evercore. However, there are still plenty of Wedbush, Fifth Third, Jannay, and Cantor type banks, not to mention plenty of regional boutiques that are either just opening or still haven't opened apps yet. Plus, people renege and refuse to follow through on offers, etc., which happens throughout the summer and fall and can provide some surprise opportunities. I know people who've gotten offers for great places as late as October of their Junior Year. It's challenging to be a non-target without an offer this late, but if you keep your head down and hustle as hard as you can, you'll land something. The fact that you've managed to get super days is a good sign, as I know a few people who haven't even gotten that far. Remember: you only need one offer, so keep at it until you land something. We'll get something as long as we continue to network, practice interview skills, and grind ourselves into the ground. Good luck!

 

Extend your graduate date by a semester to give yourself another shot at SA recruitment. If you were able to make it to super rounds then you likely just got unlucky this go around and should try again in the next cycle imo

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