[CV Review] UK target first-year, spring weeks (international)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you need to know:

1. $200 Portfolio Entry Credibility: Including a $200 portfolio might raise eyebrows, as it could come across as too small to demonstrate significant investment acumen. Instead, focus on the skills or strategies you employed (e.g., research, analysis, or returns achieved) rather than the portfolio size. Highlighting the process and results can make it more credible.

2. Screening Red Flags: Common reasons CVs get binned during screening include:

   • Formatting Issues: Ensure your CV is clean, professional, and follows a standard format (e.g., one page, consistent fonts, and spacing).
   • Lack of Relevance: Tailor your CV to highlight finance-related experiences, skills, or achievements. Avoid including unrelated or filler content.
   • Typos/Errors: Even a single typo can be a dealbreaker. Proofread meticulously.
   • Weak Action Verbs: Use strong, finance-specific action verbs (e.g., "analyzed," "modeled," "valued") to describe your experiences.

3. Overall Feedback:

   • Additions: If applicable, include any leadership roles, extracurricular activities (especially finance societies), or certifications (e.g., CFA Level I, Wall Street Prep courses) to strengthen your profile.
   • Removals: Eliminate any entries that don’t add value or align with the role you’re targeting.
   • Changes: Quantify your achievements wherever possible (e.g., "Increased portfolio returns by X% over Y months"). This demonstrates impact and results.

For a more detailed critique, consider leveraging WSO’s Resume Reviews by Professionals service, which provides tailored feedback to maximize your chances.

Sources: Spring Week strategy 2021, DESTROY MY RESUME/CV - LONDON SPRING WEEKS, Apply to spring weeks before or after starting uni?, UK Spring Week Applicant