Internships

To make your CV stand out and prepare for interviews, here’s what you should focus on:

1. Relevant Internships:

   • Aim for internships in finance-related fields such as investment banking, private equity, consulting, or economic research. These roles will provide you with the technical and analytical skills that are highly valued.
   • Boutique firms can be a great starting point if you’re unable to secure a position at a larger, more prestigious firm. They often provide more hands-on experience.

2. Skills Development:

   • Learn and practice financial modeling, valuation techniques, and basic accounting. Being able to walk through a DCF model or explain accounting transactions can set you apart in interviews.
   • Familiarize yourself with key financial concepts like ETFs, moving averages, futures, and options contracts.

3. Networking:

   • Start reaching out to alumni or professionals in the industry. Networking is crucial, as it can lead to referrals or advice that helps you tailor your applications.
   • Use networking to understand the culture and unique aspects of different firms, which will help you answer "Why this firm?" questions effectively.

4. Extracurricular Activities:

   • Join finance or investment clubs at your university. This demonstrates your interest in the field and provides opportunities to work on projects or case studies.
   • Participate in case competitions or mock interviews to sharpen your problem-solving and communication skills.

5. Firm Selection:

   • Beyond prestige, consider the learning opportunities, culture, and exposure to deals or projects. Smaller firms might offer more responsibility, while larger firms provide brand recognition and structured training programs.

6. Timing and Applications:

   • Keep track of application deadlines and apply as early as possible. Timing is critical, especially for competitive roles in London.

By focusing on these areas, you’ll not only enhance your CV but also build a strong foundation for interviews.

Sources: Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto), Economic Consulting Q&A - Past experience at major firms, How should I prepare to be a good intern?, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, International Student - Chance of getting an IBD internship in London?