What can I do to increase my chance of me getting an IB/PE internship

To increase your chances of landing an IB/PE internship, here's a focused plan based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Boost Your GPA: You're on the right track aiming for a 3.7-3.8. A higher GPA will help you clear initial resume screens, especially coming from a non-target. Keep prioritizing academics.

2. Leverage Your Certifications: Completing your Life License, SIE, and FINRA certifications is a great start. While these aren't directly required for IB/PE, they demonstrate initiative and a strong interest in finance. Highlight them on your resume.

3. Strengthen Your Work Experience:

   • Your Financial Advisor role is a solid step, but try to transition into roles more aligned with IB/PE, such as internships in corporate finance, investment banking, or private equity.
   • Your Healthcare Financial Modeling internship is a great talking point. Build on this by showcasing specific projects or models you worked on.
   • Downplay unrelated roles (e.g., Starbucks, Panda Express) unless you can spin them to highlight transferable skills like teamwork or leadership.

4. Network Aggressively:

   • Networking is critical, especially from a non-target. Use LinkedIn, alumni networks, and cold emails to connect with professionals in IB/PE. Focus on semi-target alumni and boutique firms initially.
   • Attend finance-related events, webinars, and conferences to meet industry professionals.
   • Build relationships with your school's SMIF program alumni who have broken into IB/PE.

5. Technical Prep:

   • Start mastering technical skills early. Use resources like the WSO IB Interview Guide to learn valuation techniques, financial modeling, and accounting concepts.
   • Practice with mock interviews and case studies to ensure you're ready for technical and behavioral questions.

6. Target Internships Strategically:

   • Apply broadly to boutique and regional banks, as they are more open to non-target candidates.
   • Consider extending your graduation date to allow for an additional summer internship, as this can significantly improve your chances.

7. Rebrand Through Transfer:

   • Transferring to a semi-target is a smart move. Focus on schools with strong finance programs and active alumni networks in IB/PE.
   • Once transferred, join finance clubs, investment banking societies, and case competitions to further build your resume.

8. Certifications and Skills:

   • While additional certifications like CFA Level 1 can help, prioritize networking and technical prep over piling on certifications.
   • Learn relevant technical skills like Excel, PowerPoint, and financial modeling. Python or SQL can also be useful for PE roles.

9. Leverage Your SMIF Program:

   • Highlight your involvement in the SMIF program by discussing specific investment decisions, research, or portfolio management experience.
   • Use this as a talking point in interviews to demonstrate your interest and hands-on experience in finance.

By focusing on these areas, you'll position yourself as a competitive candidate for IB/PE internships. Keep pushing forward, and don't underestimate the power of persistence and networking!

Sources: Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto), Ask CompBanker, Low GPA, trying to get my foot in the door. What do I do?, What to do as a rising senior at a non-target with no IB experience, Community College To PE