Controversial Business on Resume?

Some background: In early 2020 at the start of the pandemic, I wasn't able to get new jobs after losing the two jobs I had since starting college. I started receiving unemployment and wanted to put the money to use instead of flat out saving it in an account. I invested 90% of everything I received into index funds and the remaining I used to start learning to grow cannabis. I recently ended this pursuit given that everything seems to be returning to normal. I took the business seriously the whole time and actually was making sizable profits. I managed the financing and accounting of everything and the entire operation myself. I learned different methods of growing that were cost effective over that time and a lot of the intricacies of increase yields and producing higher quality product. I strictly worked bulk buyers to reduce the number of people I associate with. Running this business, while controversial, has taught me a lot about managing relationships, customer acquisition / networking, and overall business operations and management. I feel really proud of myself for doing something like this because I worked really hard during that time to learn about growing and optimizing the environment, etc, but I feel that I cant share this with anyone or truly take advantage of this experience because of it still being taboo. Im now a senior graduating at the end of summer and I unfortunately have no internship experience and I attend a less reputable UC with a 3.0 GPA and a 3.7 Major GPA (Bus Admin., Finance). I really enjoy the field of business and investments and I genuinely would work for free if that was the only option. I know the work is cumbersome but I know I can be good at it and that this is what I want to do. I've already done some networking but mainly with alumni in analyst positions and a couple associates. I've been told by many that I am truly at a disadvantage due to my lack of professional experience, and even by my uncle who is a retired merchant banker, but they agree that it's not impossible. This business is technically my only relevant business experience and I was wondering how I can leverage this experience. I know that I can not directly include it in my resume or say what it truly was, but what should I do. I know cannabis has been receiving more spotlight and Im sure that as laws are loosening, my experience could be very useful within banking. My ultimate goal is to work in M&A at an investment bank. Im not necessarily asking if it is possible for me to making it into banking given my disadvantages, but more so how I can leverage this experience if at all and what else I could do to stand out or earn a shot. I am very confident that I can do really well if I am given the chance, in the most humble sense. I appreciate any insight or criticism. Thanks everyone.

 

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