IB junior recruiting advice - American firms

Hey,

Student in USA/Canada. Junior looking to recruit for BB/ EB

I've done an internship in finance, and my GPA is ok. How should I navigate the recruitment process?

7 Comments
 

Hey there, future master of the universe! You're already swinging through the finance jungle like a pro, but let's make sure you don't miss any vines on your way to the top. Here's a plan to keep you on the path to glory:

  1. Networking, Networking, Networking: You've got a mentor, which is golden. But don't stop there. Connect with alumni from your school who are working at your target firms. Use LinkedIn, alumni events, and any other resources your school offers. Remember, it's not just about who you know, but who knows you.

  2. Ace the Technicals: You've got the Wall Street Prep certificate, which is a great start. Now, make sure you can walk through a DCF in your sleep, understand M&A cold, and can talk about recent deals with insight. The WSO Networking Guide can give you some extra tips on how to make those connections count.

  3. Leadership Roles: Being a part of clubs is great, but leading them is even better. Aim for leadership positions in your finance and PE clubs. It shows initiative and the ability to manage teams and projects.

  4. Keep Up the Grades: A 4.0 GPA is impressive. Maintain that. It's a clear indicator of your work ethic and smarts.

  5. Brand Yourself: Start a finance blog, contribute to existing ones, or publish articles on LinkedIn. Show your passion for the industry and share your insights. It'll make you stand out.

  6. Prepare for Interviews: Start prepping for behavioral and technical interviews now. The WSO Behavioral Interview Guide can help you craft your story in a way that resonates with IB interviewers.

  7. International Experience: Consider a semester abroad or an international internship. It can differentiate you and show you're comfortable in a global setting.

  8. Master's Degree: If you're worried about the non-target school issue, consider a Master's in Finance from a target school down the line. It can help bridge any gaps and expand your network.

  9. Stay Informed: Keep up with financial news, understand market trends, and be able to discuss them. This shows you're engaged and knowledgeable.

  10. Mock Interviews: Practice, practice, practice. Use the WSO Interview Prep Pack to get ready for the toughest questions they'll throw at you.

Remember, it's absolutely possible to break into top firms from a non-target school. It just takes a bit more hustle. But hey, hustling is what future banking legends do, right? Keep climbing, and don't forget to enjoy the view on your way up!

Sources: What offers would you take over a BB S&T?, You want a summer analyst offer? Here's how..., Need direction in life, JP Morgan Officially about to Cancel Summer Internships and Freeze Hiring, How you can get multiple job offers before you graduate

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

lol you pretty much doxed yourself and publicly admitted that you want to renege your IB offer for your junior summer - not smart.

 

First off don’t use a real name as your username. Second, cut out all the details and names of firms. I don’t think you realize how easy it is for people to figure out who you are based on all these posts. It’s a very small world in banking. Just ask seniors at school for advice, they’re more likely to know your exact situation and how to navigate it.

 
Most Helpful

Et non id sint harum consequatur quis. Dolor eius et aspernatur consequuntur consequatur iusto. Sequi possimus dolorem voluptas ullam quibusdam reprehenderit. Repudiandae ipsum amet odit fuga esse rerum beatae blanditiis.

Sequi quaerat eligendi ut culpa rerum. Et nobis repudiandae minima fuga neque. Ratione ipsum voluptatem inventore voluptas. Temporibus deleniti beatae aut provident fuga. Sequi quibusdam quia adipisci quas autem consequuntur eum.

Temporibus inventore voluptate perspiciatis quis. Quae voluptas earum veritatis.

Career Advancement Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.2%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.3%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.2%

Professional Growth Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 98.3%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 97.2%

Total Avg Compensation

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (46) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (80) $150
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (73) $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...”