Junior who struck out in IB looking for what to puruse full time.

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a structured approach to your situation:

1. Identify Realistic Career Paths:

   • Corporate Development: Since you already had a final round for a corp dev internship, this is a viable path. Many corp dev roles value F100 finance experience, and you can leverage your internship to position yourself for full-time roles.
   • Valuation/Transaction Advisory: Big Four firms (e.g., Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG) have valuation and transaction advisory groups that don’t require a CPA. These roles can provide solid exit opportunities into IB or corp dev.
   • Corporate Banking: This is a realistic option, as it’s less competitive than IB but still offers exposure to deal-making and client interaction. It can also serve as a stepping stone to lateral into IB.
   • Equity Research (ER): ER is another attainable path, especially if you can demonstrate strong financial modeling skills and a passion for analyzing companies. Highlighting your F100 experience and any relevant coursework can help.
   • Consulting: While you lack prior consulting experience, firms like Deloitte, Accenture, and other non-MBB firms often hire candidates with strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Focus on learning about case interviews and networking with alumni in consulting.

2. Leverage Your Current Internship:

   • Even though it’s not an LDP, your F100 finance internship can still be a strong foundation. Use it to build technical skills, network internally, and secure strong recommendations.
   • If the company offers rotational programs or roles in FP&A, treasury, or strategy, consider those as they can lead to corp dev or other strategic finance roles.

3. Target School-Year Internships:

   • The boutique IB offering school-time internships is a great opportunity. Even if it’s not a top-tier firm, having IB experience on your resume can open doors for lateral moves post-graduation.
   • Explore other local boutiques or small firms that might offer similar opportunities.

4. Focus on Technical and Behavioral Prep:

   • Since you identified interview prep as a weakness, prioritize improving both technical and behavioral skills. Consider resources like the IB Interview Bootcamp or Private Equity Interview Course on WSO for structured preparation.
   • Practice mock interviews to build confidence and reduce anxiety during high-stakes interviews.

5. Explore Leadership Development Programs (LDPs):

   • Many F100 companies offer LDPs in finance, strategy, or operations. These programs often provide rotational experiences and strong exit opportunities. Research programs at companies like GE, Honeywell, and John Deere (refer to the WSO thread on LDPs for a comprehensive list).

6. Networking and Applications:

   • Network aggressively with alumni and professionals in your target fields. Use LinkedIn, informational interviews, and career fairs to build connections.
   • Apply broadly to full-time roles in IB, corp dev, valuation, ER, and consulting. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences.

7. Consider a Long-Term Plan:

   • If you don’t land your ideal role immediately, focus on gaining relevant experience and consider pursuing an MBA in the future. A strong MBA program can help you pivot into IB, consulting, or other high-finance roles.

By focusing on these steps, you can optimize your chances of landing a full-time role with strong exit opportunities while staying realistic about your current position. For more insights, check out WSO’s resources on career paths and interview prep.

Sources: Summer 2018 Citigroup Summer Sophomore Leadership Program, graduated may 2019 and recently laid off first job, Lesser known MBA career options? Looking for advice on what to do post-HBS., Career in Finance - Reality or Reach?, Not sure if Investment Banking is for me anymore