High Finance Prospects Going to a Non Target School in Ontario
Hi, I've been rather interested in the financial industry particularly in Toronto for most of my high school years. This fall, I'll be attending the University of Guelph majoring in economics with co-op. I was hoping to be given some insight into my career prospects in hopes of landing a job in high finance within Toronto. Specifically in regards to how important networking/connections are in contrast to the prestige of your school, or other factors when first out of university.
Thanks (Sorry if this was put in the wrong forum).
1. Why did you go to Guelph?
If you were interested in finance throughout school, there are much better universities in Ontario. If you just couldn't hack it in high school, then breaking in is going to be tough regardless because you'll need top grades.
2. Would you be willing to transfer?
If so, I highly recommend it. Try and get top grades this semester while doing "entry level networking" (reaching out to interns) to get a better grasp on what's out there.
3. Yes, it is possible, even if you stay at Guelph.
If you start networking asap, start studying asap, start reading the WSJ asap, etc. then you can come off really impressive and will ultimately be able to break in. I broke in as a Canadian non-target - it sucked but it's doable.
Good luck!
Yeah, it was mainly grades, they could have been better (my average was in low the 80's). Also, I didn't take calculus which closed some programs out for me. Transferring wouldn't be out of the question. Thank you for the insights.
You could have at least gone to TMU with that average + they don't require Calc. TMU albeit a very mediocre school still places better than Guelph into big 6 + pension funds.
You need to grind you hardest and try to transfer to Ivey. Networking is important but it wont work miracles. Also in Toronto the influence of networking has been diluted down in recent years as HR has taken more and more control in recruiting. Its also very hard to network coming from Guelph as you have minimal alums (I personally never met one).
PM me. Former Gryphon here. It is not easy but can be done.
Taking the initiative with networking was critical for me. Coaching and support for landing these types of roles was largely non existent when I was there. Contrast this with Queens & Ivey that have on campus recruiting and more options for clubs / extracurriculars to help build your resume. Things may be changing somewhat with the funding and branding to Lang School of Business.
I thoroughly enjoyed by 4 years at Guelph, but no doubt transferring to a target school will improve your chances substantially.
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