Hi all, I’m looking at going for an MSc in finance to strengthen my application for a career in IB. Long story short, I did my undergrad at UBC in Canada, Applied Mathematics, and found an interest in banking after a time-series research stint during the summer of my third year. I got a little more serious about it after that, met with countless number of industry professionals to gauge whether or not I really wanted to pursue IB.
I’ve missed my chance at internships during my undergrad, but I think a master study will make me eligible again for intern programs and will also back up my interest in finance.
I want to know what my options are, the best ones atleast. I’m not dead set on attending a b-school in Canada. I’d love an international experience.
So far i’ve picked out ESSEC in Paris as I meet the requirements for their program. SSE looked good as well but I don’t think I meet their requirements for ‘social science’ credits, ECTS bs.
So.. some details about me: Applied Mathematics Major GPA: 91% Cumulative: 3.7 (84% at UBC) Final two years of study: 90% Avg GRE scheduled for late November this year.
4 month Paid research work during my third year, teaching assistant for two years, Varsity Athletics, and multiple executive positions in clubs (ranging from finance exec to president).
I’ve been actively looking for employment, anything finance related, while I study for the GRE. The IB scene where I live isn’t in a great shape and most (10+) people I’ve spoken with at boutique firms have firmly stated they’re not looking to take on interns at the moment. So Ive started to look a masters. I had first round interviews at a couple of the big 6 here, unfortunately that didn’t go too far. Using those as a learning experience of course, My interviewing can definitely be improved.
Anyways, any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks.
Haven't you considered any of the classic MFins in Europe (LSE, LBS, HEC, Bocconi etc)?
I have! Thing is, LSE, Bocconi, LBS seem to put an emphasis on having previous internship/work experience. Which I don’t have at all, so I have a feeling I’m not a competitive candidate.
I think I’d be able to apply at HEC, it’s just a matter of whether or not I’d be considered competitive.
Generally yes but it can depend. I know a guy who did the LSE MFin from a non-Bocconi uni in Milan and went to PJT. Undergrad straight to the MFin.
You're mistaken. LBS doesn't necessarily require previous relevant finance experience, especially the MiM, for which you appear to be a very competitive applicant, given your stats (GPA).
In fact, and that may (or may not) surprise you, for any given pre-experience Master Program (MiM, M.Fin.), you might be interested to know that admission to HEC is way more selective and cutthroat than LBS.
Thanks for the insight. Any thoughts on the MFA program at LBS? Just through an overview of the two programs MiM and MFA, I think i'd go for the MFA.
Yes of course: Comparing the two Master offerings (MiM & MFA), the MFA is the one that is geared towards IB careers, curriculum-wise (even though both programs give you the opportunity to apply for internship and full-time IB positions in London).
HEC wouldn't hold the lack of experience against you. Their emphasis in the admission process will be on your stats (GMAT, GPA). Again, many successful applicants to these programs with no previous experience.
Good luck with your applications.
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