IB internship in 🇨🇭

To land an internship in investment banking (IB) or a search fund as a high school junior in Canada, here are some actionable tips based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Start Networking Early

• Leverage Alumni Networks: If your school has alumni in finance, reach out to them. Even if they can't offer you an internship, they might connect you with someone who can.
• Cold Emailing: Research local boutique firms, search funds, or even startups. Send personalized emails expressing your interest and willingness to learn. Highlight your enthusiasm and any relevant skills.
• Family and Friends: Ask your parents or their colleagues if they know anyone in finance who might offer you an opportunity.

2. Target Local Opportunities

• Boutiques and Small Firms: Local boutique investment banks or search funds are more likely to consider high school students for internships. Firms like Palomino Capital in Montreal, for example, hire interns year-round, though they may not pay.
• Unpaid Internships: Be open to unpaid roles, as they can provide valuable experience and connections.

3. Build Relevant Skills

• Excel and Financial Modeling: Learn basic Excel and financial modeling skills. There are free resources online, or you can invest in beginner courses.
• Stock Pitching: Practice creating stock pitches using templates available online. This will show your interest in finance and analytical thinking.

4. Showcase Your Interest

• Clubs and Competitions: Join investment or finance clubs at your school or participate in competitions like stock market simulations.
• Personal Projects: Start a blog or portfolio where you analyze companies or industries. This demonstrates initiative and passion.

5. Focus on Search Funds

• Search funds are often smaller and more flexible than traditional IB firms. They might be more open to hiring a high school student if you show genuine interest and a willingness to contribute.

6. Prepare for Conversations

• When networking or interviewing, go prepared with thoughtful questions and a clear explanation of why you're interested in finance. People want to know you're serious and eager to learn.

7. Consider the U.S.

• If you're targeting U.S. opportunities, be upfront about your need for sponsorship or remote work options. Networking extensively with U.S.-based professionals can help you overcome this hurdle.

8. Be Persistent

• Landing an internship as a high school student is challenging, but persistence pays off. Keep reaching out, following up, and improving your skills.

Good luck! Remember, even if you don’t land an IB or search fund internship right away, any finance-related experience will help you build a strong foundation for the future.

Sources: 5 Steps To Becoming A Rockstar Freshman (Undergrad Advice), CANADIAN 2018 Investment Banking Summer Analyst mini Thread, Freshmen: What to do during your freshman year summer, How can I become successful from a no-name school?, Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto)