S&T to M&A?

Absolutely, you're still in a good position to apply for M&A summer internships in your second year. Based on the most helpful WSO content, having an S&T internship, especially at a boutique that also handles ECM, can provide you with valuable exposure to financial markets and deal processes. While it's not directly M&A, you can leverage the skills and knowledge gained during your S&T internship to demonstrate your interest and transferable skills for M&A roles.

Here’s what you should focus on:

1. Highlight Transferable Skills: Emphasize analytical skills, market knowledge, and any exposure to deal-related activities (like ECM) in your applications and interviews.

2. Network Aggressively: Start reaching out to professionals in M&A roles at boutiques, middle-market firms, and even larger banks. Use LinkedIn and alumni networks to set up informational calls.

3. Tailor Your Story: Be prepared to explain why you're pivoting from S&T to M&A. Focus on your interest in deal-making, strategic advisory, and working on transactions.

4. Gain Technical Knowledge: If you haven’t already, consider taking courses or bootcamps on financial modeling and valuation (like the WSO Modeling & Valuation Bootcamp) to strengthen your technical skills.

5. Apply Broadly: Don’t limit yourself to just BBs. Many MM and boutique banks offer excellent M&A experience and can be a great stepping stone.

Even without spring weeks, your S&T experience and proactive networking can make you a strong candidate for M&A internships. Keep pushing forward!

Sources: How to Obtain a Sophomore Summer Boutique IB Internship, Missed the application season this fall, sophomore, are there any boutique bank applications still freshly open?, How to Obtain a Sophomore Summer Boutique IB Internship, (London) So you didn’t get any spring weeks, here’s what you need to do:, Simplified Guide to Breaking in as Non-Target (EASIER THAN YOU THINK)