Need Help -- Incoming Investment Banking Analyst with Low GPA

Hey WSO, I’ve been a long time reader of the forums, but have never posted anything.

I attend a semi-target and landed a job at a decent middle market shop for full-time. Despite my GPA being higher during recruiting, I will likely graduate with a 3.4 GPA.

It’s frustrating to me, because I have gotten near perfect grades some semesters but failed to focus on school during other semesters when I had serious medical problems and was not always on campus. I take full responsibility for my current academic standing, but I don’t see much good in beating myself up over it anymore, because it is what it is at this point.

I am confident in my ability to do well on the job. During my summer internship, at another good middle market shop, I received good reviews and out-performed other interns. My concern is that my GPA may pigeon hole me to where my best (or only) option is to stay at my current firm long-term.

So, I have a few questions:

• How much of a concern is GPA when recruiting at good middle market PE shops?
• How much is GPA weighted when lateraling?
• Is there a point when GPA become near irrelevant (i.e. associate/VP level)?
• Are their ways to overcome this?

I am open to any and all recommendations, as I am looking to do everything in my power to have a rewarding career in the industry.

Really appreciate any feedback.

Thanks