What now? What would you do?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a structured approach to your situation:

Current Situation:

• Junior at a non-target school
• Two upcoming internships:
  • PwC as an External Audit Intern in New York
  • Microsoft as a Financial Analyst Intern in Redmond
• Graduation Date: June 2026
• Missed 2025 IB recruitment cycle

Goals:

• Passion for finance and Investment Banking (IB)
• Desire to make $1M+ per year before age 35

Options and Recommendations:

1. Complete Both Internships:

   • PwC External Audit Intern: This will provide you with a strong foundation in financial auditing and accounting, which is valuable in IB.
   • Microsoft Financial Analyst Intern: This will give you exposure to corporate finance and a prestigious name on your resume.

2. Networking and Recruitment:

   • Network Aggressively: Start networking with professionals in IB immediately. Use LinkedIn, alumni networks, and any other resources available to you.
   • Attend Finance and IB Events: Participate in finance-related events, workshops, and seminars to build connections and learn more about the industry.
   • Leverage Your Internships: Use your time at PwC and Microsoft to network internally and externally. Express your interest in IB to mentors and colleagues who might have connections.

3. Consider Delaying Graduation:

   • Delay Graduation to December 2026: This would allow you to participate in the 2026 summer analyst recruitment cycle. It’s a common strategy for those who missed the initial recruitment.
   • Apply for 2026 Summer Analyst Positions: With your internships and additional time, you can better prepare and apply for IB summer analyst roles.

4. Post-Graduation Path:

   • Option 1: Work at PwC or Microsoft: Gain experience and continue networking. After a few years, you can pursue an MBA from a top business school (M7) and transition into IB.
   • Option 2: Directly Break into IB: If you manage to secure a summer analyst position in 2026, aim for a full-time offer post-graduation.

5. Alternative Career Path:

   • Consider a PM Role at Microsoft: If IB doesn’t work out, a PM role at Microsoft can still be lucrative and fulfilling. While it may not reach the $1M+ mark as quickly, it offers stability and growth potential.

Action Plan:

• Immediate Steps:
  • Start networking and preparing for the 2026 IB recruitment cycle.
  • Focus on excelling in your upcoming internships.
• Mid-Term Steps:
  • Consider delaying graduation to participate in the 2026 summer analyst recruitment.
  • Continue building your resume and gaining relevant experience.
• Long-Term Steps:
  • If needed, plan for an MBA from a top business school to transition into IB.
  • Keep exploring alternative high-paying finance roles if IB doesn’t pan out.

By following this structured approach, you can maximize your chances of breaking into IB while keeping alternative high-paying career options open.

Sources: Should I delay graduation by a semester for a summer internship at a large bank?, My Four Year Plan, Is There Such Thing As Too Old Or Too Young For an MBA?, No IB offers for the summer...what now?, graduated may 2019 and recently laid off first job