What makes a S&T intern ‘suck’?

I have read in a few different posts that the reason an intern wouldn't land a FT offer (especially at places that have high conversion rates (>80%)) is that they 'suck'/or have a shit attitude… what does this mean? What specifically could an intern do to 'suck' more than most of their peers at the same bank?Is it to do with markets knowledge? Maths ability? Or attitude?

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General comment on all interns (not just S&T): some young kids come off as extremely arrogant, whether because: they had a high GPA, went to a target school, captained their varsity team, or thinks their “book knowledge” from class is better than what’s being done on the desk (ie “I learned this in Finance 101 and what you are doing isn’t correct, etc.).

The arrogance - whether perceived or real - really turns people off. Essentially these interns have the “I am so much better than you” attitude.

I said this in another thread, but I’ll post it here again: the street really does not like arrogant 20 year olds who think they are hot shit just because they landed a front office finance job.

Stay humble and ask questions at the right time (don’t bombard your desk with questions every 5 min - learn the social cues for when you should ask questions). Cheers and good luck.

 

I have heard an intern that didn't want to find a book and pen to take notes after a trader asked her to. There are just many instances of interns not taking initiative or just pure lazy. 

 
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I echo a lot with that u said.

The first part is especially true, not wasting time and show me you’re learning. I’m a patient person, but if I have to repeat three times at different occasions on the same topic, you’re not gonna survive in this business for long.

Acting fast on the feet/hands is another one. Not particular fast reaction or making decisions on the fly, which shouldn’t be what an intern is doing anyways, but doing the basics fast and well so u free up time learning the actual trading part.

I’ve seen a lot of people, all talk no actions, immediate pass.

 

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