new lurker seeking insight

Hello all,

I am new to the forum. I am a junior from a non-target b-school looking to break into corporate finance, sales/trading, banking, or equity research. Coming from a non-target school has definitely forced me to confront the realities of the job market. I have applied for numerous internships (150+ in the aforementioned industries) with very little success. I have, however, managed to pique the interest of a relatively decorated finance NGO after paying for the services of an internship firm. I use the term "pique" because we are still in the consulting phase and they are working to secure my internship. I have a competitive GPA, undergraduate research experience, and considerable leadership experience. Outside of cold calling and hustling is there any advice that industry professionals have to offer when it comes to closing the network gap I am facing? What is it industry professionals want to see from non-target b-school applicants? I look forward to any advice offered.