IB Internship Freshman Summer
Hello,
So I'm a freshman at Berkeley looking to going into IB. I know it's incredibly difficult and unlikely for me to do so, but I want to at least try to land some kind of IB internship this summer. I've been compiling a list of IBs near me (I live in OC) and plan on contacting them. My main target is some kind of alumni connection, but even for these, what should I say? As a freshman, from what I've read, they really will not expect me to know anything, and I don't at the moment, but I'm hoping I will by the summer (online courses, readings, etc). Should I express interest in an internship or just ask for a quick chat? Also, when is the ideal time to start reaching out, would December be too late? Thanks for any advice! I have read through a ton of threads already, hoping to get some more advice!
The boutiques you'll likely have the best luck with as a freshman are the couple-person shops that don't have structured programs. Sure, they might be looking for an extra pair of hands to help out for the summer, but keep in mind that to the extent they are open to hiring you, they are probably doing it as much out of goodwill as anything else.
As a result, you'll probably encounter some opportunities that offer you a chance to intern but may not pay you much if at all. These can be great learning opportunities and a way to get your foot in the door, and it's up to you to decide if you're willing or able to work with little/no pay.
For most boutiques this size, I'd recommend reaching out after the New Year. Bringing on interns is likely not a high priority or a priority at all for the them at this point in the year, and I'd avoid trying to kickstart anything this close to the holidays.
I think the best approach is to be direct about your interest in interning with them. Introduce yourself, explain how you came across their firm, why you're interested in them, and asking if there might be any opportunities to intern with them.
All that being said, don't put all your eggs into the IB basket, especially as a freshman. Cast a wide net to try to land something at least relevant/transferable. Regardless of what you end up doing this summer, you'll have plenty of opportunity to set yourself up for banking or who knows, you might end up finding another industry you're even more excited about - good luck!
My plan was definitely to include, in my email/cold call, that I am completely willing to take no pay and am looking for a learning experience. I feel like I can't expect to get paid as a freshman not being able to add any value really. Okay great, I'll still start compiling my list now and look to reach out during the new year.
And I agree, I'm also looking at the classic PWM, and looking into PE/VC. Are there any other common internship titles/positions/industries/firms that are doable for freshman/would be great learning experiences?
Thank you so much for the help! Appreciate it a ton
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