No job post grad?!? What do i do?

Hey everyone,

I’m a senior in college, and I did a real estate investment banking internship over the summer. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a return offer—mainly because of low deal flow and limited capital raising in REITs, but I got good performance feedback overall.

Since then, I’ve been interviewing with some big CRE brokerage firms, but I keep getting stuck in the final rounds, especially on the Excel tests. Even after taking courses and practicing, I always seem to get hit with something unexpected that throws me off.

Now that recruiting season’s wrapping up, I’m wondering what my best move might be. Should I:

  • Keep applying
  • Go for an MSF or MSRE
  • Start the CFA
  • Or something else?

Would really appreciate any advice from people who’ve been through something similar.


Thanks

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some detailed steps you can consider:

  1. Keep Applying:

    • Continue applying to various roles in real estate investment banking and commercial real estate (CRE) brokerage firms. Persistence is key, and the more you apply, the higher your chances of landing a position.
  2. Go for an MSF or MSRE:

    • Pursuing a Master of Science in Finance (MSF) or a Master of Science in Real Estate (MSRE) can enhance your credentials and provide you with specialized knowledge that can make you more competitive in the job market. This can also offer networking opportunities and access to on-campus recruiting.
  3. Start the CFA:

    • Beginning the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program can be a strong signal to employers about your commitment to the finance industry. It’s a rigorous program, but passing even Level 1 can significantly boost your resume.
  4. Other Considerations:

    • Networking: Leverage your existing network and continue to build new connections. Attend industry events, join relevant professional groups, and reach out to alumni from your school who are in the industry.
    • Skill Improvement: Since you mentioned struggling with Excel tests, consider taking more advanced Excel courses or certifications to improve your proficiency. Practical, hands-on practice can help you become more comfortable with unexpected challenges.
    • Alternative Roles: Look into related roles that can serve as a stepping stone. Positions in corporate finance, financial analysis, or even roles within smaller firms can provide valuable experience and potentially lead to your desired career path.

Given the current date, Thursday, November 7th, 2024, it's crucial to act swiftly as the recruiting season is wrapping up. Prioritize networking and skill improvement while considering further education or certifications to enhance your profile.

Sources: Graduating MSF - no job, MSRE vs. MBA decision - looking for opinions based on my situation/interests, Master’s in Real Estate - Careers?, Career in Finance - Reality or Reach?, MSF Question and Answer

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

if you’re going to study for the CFA, definitely keep recruiting. employers won’t care you were studying if there an employment gap — it’s something you’re supposed to take while you’re working. just keep your head up and keep applying. I know plenty of people that didn’t have jobs post grad for months and now are in great seats

 
Most Helpful

I definitely wouldn’t waste time on a CFA unless you’re gunning for a role covering REITs. It’s a useless credential for pretty much any other real estate job.

Spend that 300 hours hustling for a job instead. MSRE is also an option as well and the one I ended up pursuing after coming out of undergrad unemployed. It worked out well but in the back of my mind, I’ve always wondered if more hustling could have put me in the same position without spending ~$100k on grad school. Fortunately, as my career has progressed, I care much less about the $100k in the grand scheme of things. 

 

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