Does it get better

Hey guys, first time poster on here. Just got rejected from my last IB super day for SA 2025. Feeling really defeated, and that might IB dreams are pretty much over. Can anyone else who’s been here speak to how it ended up for you? Or just some words of advice please. Thanks

5 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for dealing with rejection and feeling defeated:

  1. Resilience in the Face of Rejection:

    • Many users have shared their experiences of facing rejection and how they bounced back. It's important to remember that rejection is a common part of the journey in investment banking.
    • Keep applying and improving your skills. Each rejection is a learning opportunity.
  2. Advice for SAs Who Didn't Get Return Offers:

    • Reflect on your experiences and identify areas for improvement.
    • Network actively and seek feedback from your interviews to understand where you can enhance your performance.
  3. Generational Wealth as Motivation for IB:

    • Use your long-term goals as motivation to keep pushing forward. Many have found that focusing on their ultimate career aspirations helps them stay resilient.
  4. What Sort of Experience Are Investment Banks Looking for in SW & SA CVs?:

    • Ensure your CV highlights relevant experiences and skills. Tailor your applications to showcase your strengths and how they align with the roles you're applying for.
  5. Resilience and Persistence:

    • Persistence is key. Many successful professionals in the industry have faced multiple rejections before landing their desired roles.

Remember, it's a tough industry, but perseverance and continuous improvement can lead to success. Keep networking, refining your skills, and applying. Good luck!

Sources: How to get over a superday rejection?, Advice for SAs who didn't get return offers, Really unsatisfied with SA group placement and looking for advice?, Advice for summer and return offer rate?, Current SA's: How Y'all Feeling About Return Offers?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

I've seen a decent number of people go from Big 4 Audit/Advisory to IB. I'd keep networking with IB at a minimum.

 

I sent hundreds of apps and didn't get a summer role. Continued networking, applying, and studying my technicals feverishly until I graduated, where I got offers from 3 boutique/MM firms. I'd suggest you focus on smaller firms and focus on networking (incl. with professors, parents friends/friends parents, etc. anyone you are in proximity to)

 

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