What should I try to learn?

Hi all,

I'm a sophomore trying to eventually break into ibanking. Aside from the conventional things like securing a job, networking and personally investing, I've been looking for ways to "get ahead" and ultimately learn more.

I currently have a working knowledge of comps and some models like the DCF, DDM and the NAV model. I have a basic understanding of most industries, but only really closely follow a couple.

Currently, I have an abundance of free time. I want to try to learn as much as possible, but I don't know what the best use of my time is.

What things should I try to learn next? What things would be the most beneficial to know down the road or expand my knowledge base? Also, where would be good resources to learn those topics? Should I be trying to learn options/derivatives or how to do an LBO? HELP ME OUT GUYZ

 

Things you learn in school will matter little in the real world. Find what truly interests you and immerse yourself in that. Learning a little about options or a little about LBOs isn't all that worthwhile in terms of "getting ahead". There is no surefire way to get into banking and you should spend your college years doing what you find interesting. Spending the whole time doing what you think will "get you ahead" will make you miserable in the end.

 
Best Response

I echo Winning Squared, with a caveat. If this stuff legitimately gets you going, then by all means, eat it all up.

That said, you're asking what you "should" do next; I think it's fair to say that there are other considerations in play.

As for suggestions? I suggest you read about whatever interests you most. But maybe don't focus on mastering methodologies - these "tools" are pretty easily picked up as necessary.

Ex 1 - Instead of learning LBO modeling, learn about buyouts. Read Barbarians (if you haven't, yet). Watch this video, it's awesome [See Note 1].

Ex 2 - Instead of studying options pricing, learn from the top options traders. I've even got another video for you [See Note 2].

Point is, you want to be curious, not just industrious, about learning.

Note 1: Anatomy of a Corporate Takeover -

Note 2: Trader - The Trader (Paul Tudor Jones) - hard to find, pm me and I'll point you in the right direction

"There are three ways to make a living in this business: be first, be smarter, or cheat."
 

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