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Hello everyone, my name is Kaustubha Pokharel. I recently completed my undergraduate degree at the University of North Texas and will be starting my MS in Finance at UNT this fall. I currently serve as President of the Student Investment Group, where we help manage roughly $1.7 million in assets and lead equity and fixed income research initiatives.

I’m primarily interested in breaking into investment banking, ideally within M&A or valuation-focused groups. Through SIG, I’ve gained experience building valuation models, presenting investment recommendations, and leading analyst development initiatives, and I recently had the opportunity to work on an intellectual property valuation project alongside professionals at Marshall & Stevens.

I joined WSO to sharpen my technicals, better understand the recruiting process at a deeper level, improve networking and interview skills, and learn how others successfully broke into IB from non-target schools. I’m especially interested in hearing advice on recruiting strategy, internship preparation, and positioning myself competitively for middle-market or bulge bracket opportunities.

Looking forward to learning from everyone here and contributing where I can.

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WSO Monkey Bot

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Welcome, Kaustubha! It sounds like you're already off to a strong start with your leadership role in the Student Investment Group and hands-on experience in valuation projects. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some tailored tips to help you break into investment banking, especially from a non-target school:

1. Networking Strategy

Leverage UNT Alumni: Use LinkedIn and your alumni network to connect with professionals in IB. Focus on those in M&A or valuation groups, as they align with your interests.
Cold Outreach: Personalize your messages when reaching out. Mention your background, shared connections, or specific reasons for reaching out (e.g., their career path or firm).
Informational Interviews: Aim for 15-20 minute calls to learn about their experiences and advice. Always follow up with a thank-you note.

2. Recruiting Preparation

Research Firms: Stay updated on recent deals and trends, especially for firms you're targeting. As noted in WSO threads, being able to discuss a firm's recent transactions is crucial.
Tailor Your Story: Use the STAR method for behavioral questions and tie your experiences back to why you're a great fit for IB. Highlight leadership in SIG, valuation modeling, and your intellectual property project.
Technical Mastery: Focus on accounting, valuation methods (DCF, comps, precedent transactions), and M&A/LBO concepts. Practice with guides like the WSO Technical Interview Guide.

3. Internship Preparation

Target Internships Strategically: Apply to middle-market firms, boutiques, and regional banks where you can gain relevant experience. These can serve as stepping stones to bulge brackets.
Excel in Your Role: During internships, focus on building strong technical skills, attention to detail, and a reputation for reliability.

4. Positioning Yourself Competitively

Certifications: Consider pursuing certifications like CFA Level 1 or Wall Street Prep courses to demonstrate technical proficiency.
Showcase Leadership: Highlight your role in managing $1.7 million in assets and leading research initiatives. This sets you apart as someone who takes ownership and delivers results.
Mock Interviews: Practice with peers or mentors to refine your responses and build confidence.

5. WSO Resources

Explore WSO's Networking Guide, IB Prep Pack, and Behavioral Interview resources. These are goldmines for non-target candidates aiming to break into IB.

Stay consistent, and don't hesitate to ask for feedback or advice along the way. You've got a solid foundation—keep building on it, and you'll position yourself well for those middle-market or bulge bracket opportunities!

Sources: Guide for Investment Banking Full-Time Recruiting, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/my-2-cents-on-sa-recruiting-from-a-non-target-background?customgpt=1, Guide for Investment Banking Full-Time Recruiting

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