How to break into ER with no experience?

I know this is entirely my fault and that my chances are slim to none, but I'm desperate to get into ER but I have no experience in the field. The only thing I have going for me is a good graduating GPA (~3.9) and two internships focused on real estate. If I am absolutely dead set on getting in ER what paths do I have? I am willing to work for as little as possible to break into the industry. Should I get a different type of job and work my way into ER? Should pick up any job and go get an MBA then try again a few years down? Pursue CFA? Should I just give up? I'm desperate and willing to do anything really. Open to all ideas.

 
 

i think a cfa would be your best bet - sometimes in my opinion cfa feels like it easily makes the most sense for research types. keep in mind these jobs are hard (and getting harder) to come by and so its not necessarily a reflection of your qualifications. you really do just need to be in the right place at the right time to get into ER these days. otherwise just focus on a cfa and some supplemental activities that demonstrade public market knowledge/passion

 
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I am assuming you’re a senior set to graduate this Spring. Admittedly, ER jobs are hard to come by and hiring is usually done “off cycle” when a junior leaves.

Your best bet is to keep applying and have your pitch/resume ready, but in the meantime apply to other roles that get your feet wet while allowing you to gain some modeling/corporate finance experience. Think FP&A, accounting, valuation. Start the CFA track as well. With some persistence you should be able to break in within a year or two if you aren’t able to land something before graduation.

 

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