1st Year Student looking to apply to spring weeks

To maximize your chances for Spring Weeks, here’s what you need to focus on based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. CV Optimization

• Quantify Everything: Even for non-work experiences, find ways to add numbers. For example:

  • Philosophy competition: Mention the number of participants, your ranking, or any measurable achievement.
  • Conservation work: Highlight specific tasks (e.g., "Planted 50 trees" or "Contributed to a project benefiting X hectares of land").
  • Entrepreneurship scheme: Focus on outcomes (e.g., "Developed a business plan that was presented to X judges" or "Collaborated with a team of 5 to create a product prototype").

• Prioritize Relevant Content:

  • Highlight leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills from your experiences.
  • Avoid overloading your CV with unrelated details. For example, conservation work is great but should be framed in a way that emphasizes transferable skills like teamwork or initiative.

• Formatting Tips:

  • Use clean, professional fonts like Helvetica or Garamond.
  • Avoid over-styling; content is king.
  • Ensure consistent formatting (e.g., bullet points, spacing, and alignment).

2. Addressing Work Experience Concerns

• Leverage Non-Traditional Experiences: While you may lack formal work experience, your extracurriculars can fill the gap. Frame them as professional as possible:

  • Example: "Led a team of 4 in an entrepreneurship scheme to develop a business plan, resulting in a presentation to industry professionals."

• Seek Short-Term Opportunities:

  • Cold email smaller firms or startups for internships or shadowing opportunities. Even a few weeks of experience can make a difference.
  • Participate in case competitions or finance-related challenges to demonstrate interest and initiative.

3. Application Timing

• Apply early! Many Spring Week programs review applications on a rolling basis. Even if your CV isn’t perfect, being early can give you an edge.

4. Broader Advice

• Networking: Start reaching out to alumni or professionals on LinkedIn. A quick coffee chat or informational interview can provide insights and even referrals.
• Practice Online Tests: Many Spring Week applications include psychometric tests. Familiarize yourself with these early.
• Prepare for Interviews: Focus on behavioral questions and basic technical knowledge. Use frameworks like STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.

5. Final Note

Don’t exaggerate to the point of being misleading. Recruiters value authenticity, and over-embellishing can backfire. Instead, focus on framing your experiences in a way that highlights your skills and potential.

Good luck with your applications!

Sources: (London) So you didn’t get any spring weeks, here’s what you need to do:, I'll help you with your CV (Top IB VP), Investment Banking Resume Template - Official WSO CV Example, Investment Banking Resume Template - Official WSO CV Example