What do I do
I'm 24 and finally graduating this May with an econ degree (took time off after HS). I've got a wealth management internship and a supply chain internship under my belt at great companies but I seriously can't get an interview anywhere. GPA will finish in the lower 3's. MBA? Bartend? Buy a boat and live on it? I seriously don't understand why I never hear back from anyone. I want a job in finance but I just want to know which path I should take with the given info. Pls help.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:
Leverage Your Internships: Your wealth management and supply chain internships are valuable experiences. Highlight these on your resume, focusing on transferable skills like financial analysis, client management, or problem-solving. Tailor your resume for each job application to align with the specific role you're targeting.
Address the GPA Issue: A lower 3's GPA can be a hurdle, but it's not insurmountable. Emphasize your work experience, extracurricular activities, and any leadership roles. If possible, include a strong upward trend in your grades or highlight relevant coursework.
Networking is Key: Many WSO threads emphasize the importance of networking. Reach out to alumni, attend finance-related events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Informational interviews can open doors and lead to referrals.
Consider Entry Points: If you're struggling to break into high finance, consider roles with lower barriers to entry, such as corporate banking, financial planning, or even business brokerage. These can serve as stepping stones to your ultimate goal.
Further Education: An MBA could be a good option, but only if you can get into a top program. Before committing, gain a few years of work experience to strengthen your application and clarify your career goals. Alternatively, consider certifications like CFA or CFP to boost your credentials.
Alternative Options: If you're feeling stuck, taking a temporary job (like bartending) to support yourself while you continue your job search is fine. However, don't lose sight of your long-term goals. Use the time to network, upskill, or even take on freelance finance-related projects.
Persistence Pays Off: Many WSO users have shared stories of breaking into finance despite setbacks. Keep refining your approach, and don't hesitate to seek feedback on your resume or interview skills.
If you're serious about finance, don't buy the boat just yet—focus on building momentum in your career.
Sources: What does an impending recession mean for students wishing to pursue a career in finance?, Best college major for IB at Ivy?, Finance Career Path & List, 22 Year Old Failure Seeks Advice re: Breaking into Finance
Well, it depends on what you want do, and what you actually can do, based off your resume/work experience, and network.
I have no idea where you went to school, but for the sake of argument, we'll say you went to a random state school. University of Tennessee. Knoxville. Peyton Manning. Go Vols.
For example: If you're some sort of masochist, you could WANT to do Evercore IB M&A and make 180K out of undergrad and hate your life simultaneously. However, given your background, GPA, and School name, you CAN do Raymond James Wealth Management. Not a horrendous start, but you know, WM is about 6 degrees away from Kevin Bacon in this instance.
You're probably going to end up in WM or Ops to start. I'd reach out to those places where you interned and ask if you can get an interview there.
Do not get an MBA. No MBA work, it's 150K in salt and time will take a senior in with no work experience. It's also a bit late when it comes to MFIN programs like the almighty Vanderbilt or Georgetown life raft that every kid sees as their one-stop shop to BB IB.
The white-collar job market is incredibly brutal, both structurally and cyclically. It's not your fault if you seem like you're applying to a black hole. Most companies' job applications have internal candidates who are seriously considered for the job, rather than about 1000 external candidates who also could do the job. College students are at the bottom of that totem pole, at least as far as experience goes.
Given that you want to work in "finance," you need to both research what you actually want to do, then network with people who do want you want to do. I always ask kids who talk to me about IB if they actually want to work in IB, or if they really just want to work at JPM/MS/GS/EVR and flex on some random chick at Tigre with a quarter zip. I don't judge. I saw a chick with a Moelis Umbrella the other week. That's aura. I won't lie.
TLDR: Job Market Bad, Research what you want to do, and research what you Can do, and network once you establish a few choices that are both.
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