Advice for a 2025 grad :)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:

1. Targeting Boutique Firms:

   • Networking: Since you lack finance-related internships, networking will be crucial. Leverage your friend in the boutique PE firm in London to get introductions and recommendations.
   • Boutique Firms: These firms are often more open to candidates with non-traditional backgrounds. They value practical skills and the ability to hit the ground running. Your Wall Street Prep courses and self-built models can be strong talking points.

2. Pursuing an MSc in Finance:

   • Advantages: An MSc in Finance can help bridge the gap in your resume, providing you with more structured finance education and potentially more internship opportunities.
   • Timing: If you decide to pursue the MSc, aim to get into a program that has strong connections with the finance industry in London. This can significantly improve your chances of landing internships and job offers.

3. Odds of Getting an Interview:

   • Boutique Firms: Your odds are better at boutique firms compared to larger banks, especially if you can demonstrate your practical skills and knowledge effectively.
   • Investment Banking (IB): Breaking into IB might be more challenging without internships, but targeting smaller firms and leveraging any connections you have can help.
   • Private Equity (PE): PE firms typically prefer candidates with prior IB or consulting experience. However, starting at a boutique PE firm, especially with a referral, can be a viable path.

4. Additional Tips:

   • Networking: Focus on building relationships with professionals in the industry. Attend finance-related events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and reach out to alumni from your school who are in the finance sector.
   • Skill Demonstration: Be prepared to showcase your financial modeling skills and any relevant projects during interviews. Practical demonstrations can sometimes outweigh the lack of formal internships.
   • Consider Alternatives: If breaking directly into PE or IB proves difficult, consider roles in related fields such as corporate finance, transaction services, or even consulting. These can provide valuable experience and a stepping stone into your desired field.

In summary, pursuing an MSc in Finance can enhance your profile, but networking and demonstrating your practical skills will be key to securing interviews and job offers at boutique firms.

Sources: How Do I Get Into Private Equity?, Basic Questions About PE Recruiting Answered, Q&A: Big 4 Audit to MM IB, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/venture-capital/getting-into-premier-vcseqoia-accel-and-peblackstone-kkr-funds?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/public-finance-into-investment-banking?customgpt=1