Am I fucked for on-cycle as a non-target?

About to start as a first year in a top group (EVR M&A, GS TMT, MS M&A) and was planning to do on cycle recruiting. 
 

Didn’t realize until recently that school pedigree still mattered once you’re already in banking. I was hoping to do MF/UMM PE but go to a non-target LAC (tier below Amherst/Williams) and am not diversity. Have a 3.95, 1570 SAT, and solid buy-side internships
 

Will I have a problem getting interviews at MFs and UMMs? 

6 Comments
 
Most Helpful

u cant change school now so just focus on what u can control bro. Ur wasting time and energy on the wrong things

 

Different firms care about slightly different things. However, I will say - for the most part - one’s banking group (as it’s more recent and real work experience) trumps one’s undergrad, especially if you’ve had good performance at both. I’d focus on getting good work experience/upskilling and interviewing well because once you get looks (which you will) that will separate you.

For context, this is coming from someone that didn’t come from a marquee group (and got passed on a bunch because of this) and is going UMM.

 

Generally yes - but moot point for on cycle considering the differentiating factor is brand name, both firm and undergrad wise.

Will OP likely find it harder than target + top group kids to do MF? Probably. But he’ll still get looks and have it easier than the many candidates not in top groups.

 

Sounds like on cycle this year took place before anyone had real experience? 

 

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