Honest Cover Letter

I am a recent grad from a school that is generally considered semi-target (which I believe is banker speak for a school that is not an ivy but damned close). I have a 3.5+ gpa in a very quant set of majors (2 of them) but not Econ.

I have failed in every attempt to break into finance, perhaps it was the IT consulting experience...

Anyway I am thinking that instead of writing the typical cover letter which talks about my hard work and accomplishments to no avail, I write one which is more honest and humorous, explaining my situation, how I work 80+ hours no matter where I am and that I had a 3.0 in college going through recruiting as a junior and pulled it up late in the game getting only 4.0s.

That said, should I even try to keep applying to IB/PE boutiques now? I am currently working at an internet growth company making great money, but can't stand coding.

At this point I just don't understand why that no matter what I have done, I just haven't gotten in. Its getting depressing. I had a bad dream about an interview I had last night, and even if you don't think the cover letter idea above is a good one, just a little consolation might be nice.

 

I've never been on the other side i.e. been the guy reviewing resumes/cover letters etc but I get the impression that people in IB/PE rarely even read cover letters. Someone with experience, feel free to correct me. All they're essentially looking for is a certain type of experience, especially in this environment, or else you're dinged. I'll be perfectly honest with you, in this environment, with your background, your chances are slim to none without contacts within the industry. As far as some consolation, pm me if you want to know my situation, I guarantee you'll feel better about your predicament.

 

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