Repost to Chicago: I have had the hardest time getting even an interview for a JUNIOR ANALYST position at any investment bank. I get plenty of interviews for accounting jobs.....I really love financial modeling but I have limited experience (circular reference) I work has a PE accountant and no one seems to want accountants. I didn't go to a high profile school but I was one of the top Econ students at a quality university - Graduated the end of 2015. How do I get into the industry? Is it possible with my background? I'm planning on moving for the job.
Leverage your alumni network. Reach out to alumni that are in investment banking. Try reaching out through your school's database/LinkedIn/Homi.
First time I've seen Homi brought up on here. I know the founder and a few of the employees there. Pretty awesome to see it gaining traction.
If you didn't graduate from a name brand school the only option is to go back to get a graduate degree from one. The i banking offers come with the degree.
Study for the CFA, and join a study group, you'll meet people already in the industry and the CFA will look good on your resume.
There are small companies no one has heard of that do IB. Probably mostly buy-side. You should check Wall Street Oasis. Many of the top executives in these places went to random schools that aren't top ranked. Also consider an MFin or MFE. Slightly less competition. No need to be a top 10 school, and easier on the wallet.
So most investment banks hire their analysts straight out of college. The only way to lateral to another analyst program out of school is if you're already working as an analyst at an investment bank and you want to switch to another bank. The only real option now is to get an MBA and join an investment bank as an associate.
Hey thanks! Have you worked for an investment bank before?
My brother just finished his MBA and is about to start at an investment bank. His background is very similar to yours. He wanted to join an investment bank out of college but wasn't able to get any interviews so he did accounting for a while at a Big 4 and then got into an M7 MBA program.