Failed internship search - What to do next? CFI? (Corporate finance institute)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you can do to recover from a failed internship search and boost your chances for the future:

1. CFI Certificates:

   • The Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) is legitimate and offers courses that can help you learn accounting and finance fundamentals. However, certifications from CFI are generally more valuable for educational purposes rather than as a standout item on your resume.
   • If you’re aiming for the buy-side, focus on building technical skills that are directly relevant, such as financial modeling, valuation, and Excel proficiency. WSO’s Elite Modeling Package might be a better alternative for this purpose, as it’s tailored for high finance roles.

2. Summer Activities to Boost Your Resume:

   • Part-Time Finance Internship: Try to secure a part-time internship at a boutique investment bank, private equity firm, or even a startup. Cold email 50+ smaller firms or startups and ask if they’re willing to take you on as an intern. Highlight your STEM background and willingness to learn.
   • Technical Prep: Learn financial modeling, valuation, and other relevant skills. Consider taking courses like WSO’s financial modeling training or similar programs.
   • Networking: Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the industry. Reach out to analysts or associates for informational interviews and advice.
   • Extracurriculars: Join finance-related clubs or societies at Oxford, such as an investment club or a student-run fund. These experiences can help you develop relevant skills and provide talking points for interviews.
   • Personal Projects: Work on a stock pitch, create a mock portfolio, or analyze industry trends. These projects can demonstrate your interest in finance and analytical skills.

3. Resume Improvement:

   • Tailor your resume to highlight transferable skills from your STEM background, such as quantitative analysis, problem-solving, and programming.
   • Include any relevant coursework, certifications (e.g., CFI or WSO), and extracurricular activities. If you’re working on certifications or projects, list them as “in progress” to show your commitment to learning.

4. Long-Term Strategy:

   • Don’t panic about missing out on spring weeks or internships in your first year. Focus on building a strong foundation and gaining relevant experience over the next few years.
   • Consider applying for off-cycle internships or roles during the academic year.

Remember, the key is to show genuine interest in finance, develop relevant skills, and build a compelling story for why you want to break into the buy-side.