Do I just suck or what?

Title

Background, final year student, target in london, did BB snt last summer, now looking for another summer internship

got some interviews and ACs (really good ones as well - GS / JPM / MS / BofA), but just got ghosted after them, no offers and no rejections, just nothing from HR's end

Don't even know what to do next. BB recruitment cycle is done. Also applied to most jobs on the tracker, but got rejected by ~50% of them even before any actual talking with recruiting team had taken place

I am so lost and down right now. the weather doesn't help either

Appreciate any advice moving forward, what should I apply to given the recruiting cycle is done (for BB) ? Thanks a lot

14 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some steps you can take to move forward:

  1. Explore Boutique Banks and Small PE Shops:

    • Network: Use LinkedIn and Google to find small boutique investment banks (around 30 people or less) and small private equity shops in your region.
    • Reach Out: Email professionals at these firms to request 15-minute calls. Networking can open doors to opportunities that aren't widely advertised.
  2. Consider Off-Cycle Internships:

    • Application Strategy: Off-cycle internships are more accommodating for students who have already graduated. They often convert into full-time roles if you perform well and there is a business need.
    • Technical Preparation: Ensure your technical skills are strong, as off-cycle interviews can be more challenging and skew towards candidates with relevant experience.
  3. Leverage Your Placement Year:

    • Highlight Experience: Use the experience from your previous placement year to strengthen your applications and interviews.
    • Focus on Technicals: Make sure your technical knowledge is solid, as this will be crucial in off-cycle interviews.
  4. Stay Persistent and Positive:

    • Keep Applying: Continue applying to any remaining opportunities, even if they seem less ideal. Every interview is a chance to improve and network.
    • Seek Feedback: If possible, try to get feedback from the interviews and assessment centers you attended to understand where you might improve.
  5. Utilize University Resources:

    • Career Services: Reach out to your university's career services for additional support and potential connections.
    • Alumni Network: Tap into your school's alumni network for advice and potential job leads.

For more detailed advice and support, you can visit the following WSO thread: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/advice-for-lon…</a">Advice for London applicants.

Stay resilient and keep pushing forward!

Sources: Missed the application season this fall, sophomore, are there any boutique bank applications still freshly open?, 2018 Full-Time IB Recruiting Timeline Megathread Page, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/ibd-sa-after-graduation?customgpt=1, Consulting Recruiting 2023, 2018 Summer Analyst IB Recruiting Timeline Megathread Page

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

I have a BB S&T summer lined up next year. From your experience, are there things you regret doing or wish you’d done differently to secure the return? Also, why do you think you didn’t get it in the end? Would love to hear about the desks you rotated on and whether you liked them—maybe it could give me some insight on what to focus on!

Appreciate your advice and hope things turn around for you soon.

 
Funniest

HAHAHAHAH what's this - the man's down and all you have to contribute here is ask him for tips so you can convert

 

What? OP asked for the truth and I’m giving the truth. This is a people industry, not somewhere where you can get by on raw talent. 

 

I’ve been in this biz a long time.. it’s not meant to be easy. You’ll have many more obstacles. Head up and keep pushing if this is what you want… and it’s not all you, there’s a fair bit of luck involved given the competition (especially at entry level).

 

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