HELP ME PLEASE

I have no body. I need help I am completely lost. I graduated in May from a big ten school (UWMadison, UIUC, ..) with an economics and computer science degree and 3.6 GPA. I had an investment banking internship at a no name boutique. I was a founder and board member of an organization on campus. I have not been able to land a job. I at situation where I am too foreign to be American be too American to be foreign (technical skills wise if that makes sense). I have not been getting many interviews but the ones I have been getting I can not progress. I have had interviews with in product strategy at fintech firm(ghosted), quant trading(not the best technically), valuation at a fintech startup(5 rounds left with positive feedback but when with more experience candidates), investment banking at a no name(not the best technically), private equity operations(ghosted), consulting at a no name(might have name dropped and employee which backstabbed me). These are the only interviews I have had that lasted from between 2-5 interview and nothing after. I am losing hope. Did I dig myself a grave but not stick to a skill and perfecting as in sticking to finance or sticking to computer science? What can I do now? I have been thinking of pursuing to apply to masters degrees at a very good target school which would give me a better chance at getting a job. But I don’t have the math level required for some of these programs or the letter of recommendation as I didn’t get close with my professors. There will be a program that I could apply to but what is the chance I actually get in? I am not sure what I am trying to get out of this thread. Was this my rant to get my pent up thoughts in one place or do I need an angel to help me figure something out.

TLDR: Graduated with a pretty good background. Can not get a job, because of me, because of market, idk. Have had few interviews but I’m fumbling. Should I take a masters? Help me!

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

  1. Self-Assessment and Skill Focus:

    • Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses from your past interviews. Identify areas where you can improve, whether it's technical skills, interview techniques, or networking.
    • Consider focusing on either finance or computer science to build a more specialized skill set. This can make you more attractive to potential employers.
  2. Networking and Persistence:

    • Networking is crucial. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Be clear about your career goals and seek advice from industry veterans.
    • Persistence is key. Keep applying and refining your approach based on feedback from each interview.
  3. Further Education:

    • Pursuing a master's degree can be a good option, especially if it's from a target school. It can provide you with additional skills, networking opportunities, and a stronger brand name on your resume.
    • If you're concerned about meeting the math requirements or obtaining letters of recommendation, consider programs that align more closely with your current qualifications or look into preparatory courses to strengthen your application.
  4. Alternative Paths:

    • Consider entry-level roles in related fields that can provide you with relevant experience and a stepping stone to your desired career. Analyst roles in investment sales or capital markets, as mentioned in the WSO content, can be accessible options.
    • Look into coding boot camps or post-baccalaureate programs if you're leaning towards a career in computer science.
  5. Stay Positive and Keep Trying:

    • It's important to stay positive and keep trying. The job market can be tough, but with persistence and continuous improvement, you can land a role that suits your skills and interests.

Remember, many professionals have faced similar challenges and have successfully navigated their way to fulfilling careers. Keep refining your approach, seek advice, and stay determined.

Sources: Recent grad, super lost. Can anyone give advice/help me choose between an MBA, JD, or MA?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/real-estate/is-georgetown-masters-in-real-estate-for-me?customgpt=1, Which masters to choose?, Graduating MSF - no job, Master’s degree journey

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

You went to a good top ten school with a decent GPA and experience, have you been reaching out to your alum network?

 

seems like you need to figure out what you actually want to work in, your applications are all over the place and that makes it difficult to craft a compelling why this job/industry story, and difficult to properly prepare for interviews

 

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