Trying to learn about finance
Hey everyone,
I’m a student at a community college, currently a sophomore that’s trying to transfer to a T20 school (UCLA, Vanderbilt, etc). I’m a first gen low income student and tbh had no clue about anything finance recruiting timelines, or anything like that. No on in my family has ever worked a corporate role ever.
After reading threads here I’m fucken shocked about how recruiting works. Realizing that lots of summer 2027 roles (IB, CIB, CB, even fucken PWM) are already open or even closed at this point is insane to me.
I wanted to see if anybody here has any advice on some roles within finance that would open up later. I also can delay my grad to make me eligible for summer 2028.
I’m also diversity so would love to get any advice in general. I know this rant is so general but I literally don’t know anything about how any of this work and just want to work as hard as I can to try and support my family. Thank you for your time and would love any advice whatsoever!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a breakdown of advice tailored to your situation:
1. Understanding Recruiting Timelines
2. Diversity Recruiting Programs
As a first-gen, low-income, and diversity candidate, you have access to exclusive programs designed to help you break into finance. Here are some examples:
These programs often have deadlines in the fall or early spring, so start preparing now.
3. Delaying Graduation
4. Networking
5. Resources to Get Started
6. Action Plan
You’re already taking the right step by seeking advice and being proactive. Keep pushing forward, and don’t hesitate to leverage diversity programs—they’re designed to help candidates like you succeed!
Sources: 2019 FT Analyst Recruiting Timeline, 43 Diversity Recruiting Programs at Investment Banks - The Most Exhaustive List, 2019 FT Analyst Recruiting Timeline
bump
Front office (IB, S&T) recruiting is brutal and happens earlier and earlier each year (and recruiting is concentrated to a small subset of schools). I don't have advice on non-front office roles with later start dates, however, since you mentioned you're diverse, I'd look into SEO Careers and MLT. Both are programs aimed at educating and placing people with partner companies.
SEO Careers: https://career.seo-usa.org
MLT:https://mlt.org
Where are you based? Could you try and find an internship at PWM in the area of your CC? Those might have less rigid internship timelines. You're probably going to have to do a lot of leg work and generate your own opportunities versus trying to place through the traditional, NYC-based processes from a CC.
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