Advice to get BB Sophomore Internship

I really want to get a solid ibanking sophomore internship at one of the BB's, like Goldman's Sophomore Rotational Program. I know these programs are extremely competitive. My question is does my low GPA already put me out of the running and should I aim for an internship at MM banks?

Bulge Bracket sophomore summer internships for investment banking


Most bulge bracket banks hire sophomores. Usually, they are strong candidates from target universities who have networked aggressively. However, a majority of the sophomore programs seem to be devoted to hiring underrepresented minorities.

Bulge Bracket Banks that have investment banking summer analyst positions for sophomores:

 

So if you are not, you will have a tough time getting an internship even if you are amazing. Most sophomores I know who work at BBs are either URM, or had their positions created by family connections. Those who are really good get offers at smaller firms. BofA might have a regular program - not sure though.

I go to a target as well, according to my smarter friends a high GPA is essential to beat the sophomore competition. 3.67 is not bad, but 3.8 or 3.9 will help. A lot.

 

^If they background check your grades and classes (which they usually do) then you're pretty screwed. Also our school automatically moves up your class grade if you are graduating early, so there's no way to lie since in the background check you'll be found out. Depends on the school I guess.

 
Best Response

I don't agree that a lot of the Sophomore Programs are URM targeted because I know a lot of people who aren't URM that will be in BB's in some capacity, in fact a friend last summer did GS Rotation and he's not URM. I'm a Soph and I'm going to be at a BB this summer and my advice is start early. I can confidently say that my offers this year came purely because of networking. I knew every campus recruiter for my school except for JPM and that was the only place I got no offer from. In an economy like this when HR can recognize your face and name they are more likely to give you a shot. And when you go to recruiting events talk to the analysts not just people who are MD's the analysts will give you more time and care more. So go to recruiting events, meet people and keep in contact with them.

The next part of the equation is to recognize that GPA is not the end of the world nor is it the start. How interesting are you as a person? When you walk into a room what can I talk to you about, do you have an interest in politics, musics, sports, family, religion. What else are you passionate about besides banking because it truly matters who you are. I know too many people who walked in claiming they love finance and stocks and banking, truthfully you can enjoy it but they're not dumb they know people don't go to bed dreaming about their portfolio. Show leadership skills, join a club and be involved. Be a part of a community service on campus - that's a big one at GS. How much impact do you have on the community around you? It all sounds cheesy but I've found those to be key.

Goodluck, keep your head up and keep fighting when it looks bleak. Perseverance is key to this job search thing

 

I did the "plan to graduate early" thing; I was actually considering graduating early and am a junior by standing, so it was legitimate, and it helped a fair bit - I was able to let alumni "talk me in to" staying the full four years. That said, I didn't apply to too many SA spots, because I didn't want to get dinged and have problems applying next year when I'll actually be a junior.

 

^ yup agreed. If you have enough credits from HS, just put yourself as junior standing. Don't spam all the firms, pick two or three and apply. If you get the offer at the end of the summer, consider graduating early or just explain that due to market situations, you decided to stay in school another year. I imagine you'll never be able to return to taht firm though.

 

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