Starting from Zero, is it too late?

Hey everyone,

I just competed my sophomore year of university and know the basics of investment banking but not anything technical (accounting, how to model LBOs, DCFs, etc.).

I have just started learning, it is the end of May, I go to a non-target (Michigan State University), good GPA and have decent resume experience. With a ton of networking and applying to banks, is it possible to break into a boutique my junior summer or possibly even a middle market?

I know this is controversial on wso but should I extend my graduation by a semester for another summer of recruiting? I'm already double majoring and could even add another minor in econ if I stay. What other immediate steps should I take right now??

Thanks guys

Most Helpful

Ut consectetur ut vel non. Non sequi possimus sed aut facilis placeat ad. Rerum alias iusto beatae cupiditate. Eligendi impedit est et molestias et sequi. Fugit dolor ut eum sunt.

Velit sed maiores cumque amet quasi provident quia. Ut cum blanditiis ut. Ipsum quod deleniti qui facere id eaque. Dolorem et commodi cum voluptatem id ut illo quidem.

Career Advancement Opportunities

September 2023 Investment Banking

  • Lazard Freres (++) 99.6%
  • Lincoln International (==) 99.1%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.7%
  • William Blair 12 98.2%
  • Financial Technology Partners 02 97.8%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

September 2023 Investment Banking

  • William Blair 04 99.6%
  • Lincoln International 11 99.1%
  • Canaccord Genuity 18 98.7%
  • Jefferies & Company 07 98.2%
  • Stephens Inc 11 97.8%

Professional Growth Opportunities

September 2023 Investment Banking

  • Lincoln International 01 99.6%
  • Lazard Freres 17 99.1%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.7%
  • Financial Technology Partners 06 98.2%
  • UBS AG 15 97.8%

Total Avg Compensation

September 2023 Investment Banking

  • Director/MD (6) $592
  • Vice President (33) $392
  • Associates (160) $261
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (14) $187
  • 2nd Year Analyst (101) $169
  • 1st Year Analyst (309) $167
  • Intern/Summer Associate (48) $167
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (225) $94
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...”

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...”