Networking for Freshman Year Internship
Hey guys, I’m happy to be done with the college application process and am now looking at planning out my summer. I’m thinking of spending one month travelling with friends and another two interning at a smaller firm / fund (where the recruiting process isn’t so strict).
I have done a couple of finance-related internships outside of the US (family immigrated here so network is stronger back home), but I think it would be better to start getting experiences here.
With regard to networking for an internship, should I focus on reaching out to alums from my high school or the university that I will be attending (UChicago)? Would it be too early to network from the university since I haven’t actually started going there yet? Any other tips on how I should approach looking for an internship early on?
Hey there, future finance whiz! First off, congrats on wrapping up the college app gauntlet – that's no small feat. Now, let's talk strategy for snagging that sweet summer internship.
University Alumni Networking: Even though you haven't started classes at UChicago yet, it's not too early to begin networking with university alums. Based on the most helpful WSO content, students have had success reaching out to alumni for networking purposes before officially starting their program. It shows initiative and drive, which are golden traits in the finance world. Plus, UChicago has a stellar reputation and a strong alumni network that can be incredibly valuable.
High School Alumni: Don't discount your high school network either. If you went to a school with a strong network, those connections can be just as valuable, especially if there are alums in the finance industry. It's all about who you know, and more importantly, who knows you.
Other Networking Avenues: Remember, networking isn't just about who's sharing your alma mater. Based on the WSO Networking Guide, you should also consider reaching out to professionals with any common ground you can find – maybe they're from the same hometown, participated in similar extracurriculars, or have a connection to your family's network back home.
LinkedIn and Online Presence: Get your LinkedIn profile polished and professional. It's a prime spot for making connections, and you can start joining finance-related groups where you might find potential networking contacts.
Cold Emailing: It's a numbers game, so don't be shy. Craft a personalized email template that you can tweak for each person you reach out to. Make sure to highlight your past internships and your eagerness to learn and contribute.
Persistence and Follow-Up: Be persistent but not pesky. If you don't hear back after a week or two, it's okay to send a polite follow-up email. Sometimes, it's just about timing.
Remember, networking is an art, and you're the artist. So grab your brush and start painting those connections. Good luck, and may the networking odds be ever in your favor!
Sources: Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, List of Things You Should be Doing in Undergrad, Cornell vs Michigan vs Dartmouth school choices, 5 Steps To Becoming A Rockstar Freshman (Undergrad Advice), Q&A: From Corporate Finance to Corporate Strategy (Supply)
never too early the sooner the better start with alumni network and family .
Alumni network from college not just HS right?
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