Final year Finance student from non target

Hi all

This is my first post so I thought I'd introduce myself and my situation (be kind :))

I have been applying like mad for graduate roles within mainly investment management for the last few months, with no success. I am a final year BSc Finance student from a non-target university in the UK. I have two internships spanning 15 months in total, at A big 4 accountancy/audit firm and another in corporate development (M&A) at a FTSE 100 company. On top of this I have a range of extra curricular experience, all of which is very relevant to investment management.

As I've said, I haven't had any positive response from the many IBs and asset managers I have applied to, and I'm kind of starting to lose hope now. As far as I can see my options are now the following: 1. Continue to apply for any roles that become available and hope something works out and 2. Failing that, do a postgrad degree at a top 10 UK university, and apply for grad roles again in September. I also intend to grow my professional network and will be taking some tips from some of the great articles on networking which are on this site.

I was offered a role with the big 4 audit company after my internship, but turned it down. This was mainly because, after a year of being there, I quite frankly hated the place. I don't want to settle for a job I hate just because it was convenient.

I would be keen to hear your thoughts on my plans and any advice on how to make the jump into my "dream" role would be greatly appreciated.

Beat regards
Ryan