Two questions - Undegrad freshman from a non-target

Hi, I am an undergraduate freshman from a non-target school with a few questions about how I can better prepare myself for a future in (hopefully) the financial industry. I realize some of this may seem like stupid questions you you all but please have mercy on my naive soul.

First what can I do to get an internship between my freshman and sophomore years? I am interested in VC (I know this won't happen), finance and banking, etc. essentially the basics of the financial realm. Paid would be ideal however I will take just about anything. I hear about freshman getting these internships and am just wondering how I would go about doing this. Cold emailing?

Second, where, in your opinions, does the future of the financial sector lie? What will wall street look like in 20-30 years? What can I do to maximize my chances of a lucrative and stable career, ideally on the street? I know this is an uphill battle and I am willing to do everything in my power to succeed.

Thanks for any and all advice.

5 Comments
 
Best Response

Whatever someone tells you about what Wall St. will look like 20-30 years from now is wrong. They're lying. No one in the 70s would have predicted the world today - and no one should be trying to today.

As for internships - being a freshman from a non-target puts you at a disadvantage (obviously). I would focus on accounting internships, as they're slightly easier to get and will give you good exposure to financial services and accounting. Big 4 internships may be out of reach this early on, but some of the smaller accounting firms (boutiques) or even the accounting departments of some companies may take a chance on you as an intern/clerk.

At this point, I'd be focused pretty heavily on trying to get involved in your school - especially in clubs with a finance-theme, so that you can point to leadership positions as a senior. Focus on your GPA as well.

 

Get a very high gpa and transfer to top-tier institution (doesn't even have to be an ivy league). Your chances will drastically increase. Thank me later.

 

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