Hello!

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.

2 Comments
 

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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