Need Resume Feedback!

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a breakdown of your questions and actionable advice:

1. Is a 75 WAM from a Go8 University competitive for BB/strong boutique IB internships?

• A 75 WAM is on the lower end for BB and strong boutique IB internships in Australia. While 80+ is often seen as the soft cut-off, firms do consider other factors like networking, extracurriculars, and work experience. However, for middle-market and elite boutiques, networking can sometimes outweigh strict academic benchmarks.

2. How heavily do firms weigh WAM trajectory?

• Firms do take WAM trajectory into account, especially if there’s a clear improvement after the first year. Highlighting your 80+ WAM for the remainder of your degree is a smart move. You could include a note on your resume like:
  • "WAM (Excluding First Year): 80+"
• This approach is particularly useful if your first-year grades were an anomaly and you’ve demonstrated consistent improvement.

3. Should ATAR and high school be included?

• Including ATAR and high school depends on the firm:
  • BBs and strong boutiques: Typically don’t require ATAR unless it’s exceptional (95+).
  • Middle-market and elite boutiques: May weigh ATAR more heavily, especially if they recruit from specific high schools.
• With an ATAR of 88, it’s better to leave it off unless explicitly requested.

4. Is including algorithmic trading coursework worthwhile?

• Yes, including algorithmic trading coursework is worthwhile, especially if it demonstrates technical skills and a quantitative edge. However, ensure it’s relevant to the role. For IB, focus on how these skills translate into financial modeling, valuation, or market analysis. Your description is strong, but consider condensing it to fit:
  • "Algorithmic Trading (selective, interview-based admission): Designed and back-tested market-neutral ETF pairs trading strategies; implemented automated trading bots with portfolio optimization and risk management in simulated markets."
• Replace less relevant coursework or extracurriculars with this.

5. How important is prior finance internship experience?

• Prior finance internship experience is highly valued for penultimate IB internships. However:
  • Non-finance internships: Can still be leveraged if you frame them correctly. Highlight transferable skills like analytical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. For example:
    • Software Company: Emphasize data analysis, project management, or coding skills.
    • Wine Company: Focus on financial analysis, operations, or strategy contributions.
• Networking and strong interview performance can help offset the lack of direct finance experience.

6. Are you realistically in the mix for an IB internship?

• You’re in the mix, but you’ll need to:
  • Network aggressively, especially with alumni from your university.
  • Tailor your resume to highlight your strengths (e.g., WAM improvement, algorithmic trading coursework, and transferable skills from internships).
  • Prepare thoroughly for technical and behavioral interviews.

Final Tips:

• Networking: Attend networking nights and reach out to alumni or professionals at target firms. Some firms, like Moelis, may prioritize candidates who network directly.
• Resume: Keep it concise and focused on achievements that align with IB skills (e.g., financial modeling, quantitative analysis, teamwork).
• Applications: Apply broadly, including middle-market and elite boutiques, as they may have less rigid academic cut-offs.

Good luck!

Sources: Q&A: 2nd yr IB Analyst - Australia, Australian Non Finance Pathways?, Student from Japan applying to IB in the US, Can international students in Australia break into IB?