Hey, I’m a finance student at a non-target school. My school is decent but it ain’t no Princeton. Are there any smaller firms that I have a chance at interning? I’m seeing lots of tier ones on here so I have to ask. (I have a 3.7 GPA)
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Absolutely, there are plenty of smaller firms where you could potentially intern. Based on the most helpful WSO content, if you're really set on getting into Investment Banking, it's going to be through a regional boutique with 10-25 people. You'll need to really pound their door down hard. Your 3.7 GPA is a strong point, as full-time recruiting often sees 3.7+ as the norm.
Remember, it's not just about the size of the firm, but the experience you gain. An internship at a smaller firm can provide valuable experience and potentially lead to opportunities at larger firms in the future. So, don't discount the smaller boutiques! Keep your chin up and keep swinging.
Sources: 2019 Investment Banking Full Time Recruiting - Do I Have a Chance?, Going from a non-target with low GPA to landing a hedge fund Internship, Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, How do I break in? What are the realities? Low GPA, Non-Target.
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