Review My Resume Please and Thank You

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you need to know to improve your resume and prepare for recruiting:

1. Addressing Your Current Situation

• If you're only doing a food service job and not a finance internship, don’t panic. Many successful candidates have started from non-finance roles. However, you need to craft a compelling story about how your current role has helped you develop transferable skills (e.g., teamwork, customer service, time management) and how it led to your interest in finance.
• To strengthen your profile, aim to secure a part-time finance internship during the semester, preferably at a boutique investment bank or private equity firm. Being in Chicago, you have access to a major financial hub, so leverage that proximity.

2. Resume Improvements

• No Errors: Ensure your resume is error-free. Avoid spelling mistakes, inconsistent formatting, or overuse of periods in bullet points. Consistency is key.
• Quantify Achievements: Highlight measurable results in your experiences. For example, instead of saying “Assisted in customer service,” say “Served 50+ customers daily, improving satisfaction scores by X%.”
• Tailor for Finance: If you lack finance experience, focus on transferable skills and demonstrate your interest in finance through extracurriculars (e.g., investment clubs, case competitions).
• Leadership Roles: Since you’re aiming to improve your leadership experience, actively pursue roles in student organizations or finance-related clubs. Even small leadership roles can make a difference.
• Technical Skills: Include any relevant technical skills (Excel, financial modeling, etc.) and certifications (e.g., FMC Level 2). These can help demonstrate your commitment to the field.

3. Networking and Recruiting

• Start networking now. Use a concise and professional email template to reach out to professionals in your target firms (e.g., Guggenheim PEAG). A good example: Hi [Banker’s Name], My name is [Your Name], and I’m a freshman at [Your Institution]. I have a strong interest in [specific group/industry] because reason. Would you have 15 minutes to chat about your work at Firm in group? I’d appreciate the chance to learn more about your experience and any advice you may have for someone looking to build a career in the industry. I’ve attached my resume in case you’d like to know more about me. Regards, [Your Name]
• Attach your resume when reaching out, but ensure it’s polished and tailored for finance.

4. Behavioral Preparation

• Behavioral interviews are critical. Start preparing answers to common questions like “Why finance?” or “Why this firm?” Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
• Avoid exaggerating achievements on your resume or in interviews. Recruiters expect some embellishment but overstating accomplishments can backfire.

5. Fall 2026 Internship

• Yes, you should aim to lock in a finance internship for Fall 2026. Even if it’s unpaid or remote, it will provide valuable experience and strengthen your resume for sophomore recruiting.

6. Targeting Guggenheim PEAG

• Guggenheim PEAG is highly competitive, so you’ll need to stand out. Focus on:
  • Building a strong technical foundation (e.g., financial modeling, valuation).
  • Networking with alumni or professionals at Guggenheim.
  • Demonstrating genuine interest in private equity and advisory work.

By following these steps, you’ll position yourself as a stronger candidate for Chicago-based opportunities and beyond. Good luck!

Sources: Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking, What will FT Recruiting look like this year?, Liberal Arts Undergrads: A few tips to land THE internship, Recruiting and Resume Advice from the Rockies