As a sophomore looking to break into investment banking, landing a competitive sophomore investment banking internship in 2023 can be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and strategy, it is possible to get your foot in the door at top banks like Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, Citi, and more. This article will provide tips on how to best position yourself for investment banking recruitment as an underclassman, from networking and summer programs to technical skills and interview prep. Getting started early with the right approach is key to maximizing your chances at top investment banking internships in 2023.
Leverage underclassman programs for sophomore investment banking internships 2023
Many banks offer special underclassman programs for freshman and sophomores to get early exposure to investment banking. These can includeSpring insight programs, diversity events, women’s events, career treks, and more. Proactively researching these opportunities and applying early is crucial, as they are competitive but provide unparalleled access to recruiters. Strong performance can lead to interview fast tracks or early offers. Examples include Citi Women’s Leadership Program, Goldman Possibilities Summit, Evercore Sophomore Women’s Forum, and Insight programs at Morgan Stanley and other banks.
Network early and often for sophomore investment banking internships 2023
Networking is vital for investment banking recruitment, especially as an underclassman from a non-target school. Attend on-campus info sessions, career fairs, office visits and networking events to connect with bankers. Leverage alumni networks on LinkedIn and social media. Set up calls to practice interviews and gain insights. Maintain relationships over time. Referrals and advocates from networking can help fast track your candidacy when recruiting begins.
Develop technical skills for sophomore investment banking internships 2023
While underclassmen are not expected to be technical experts, displaying strong financial modeling, valuation, accounting, Excel, PowerPoint and business writing skills will stand out. Take relevant courses in finance, accounting and financial statement analysis. Practice modeling tests and accounting cases from prep books. Attend technical workshops. The more technical proficiency you can demonstrate, the better.
Prepare for interviews to land sophomore investment banking internships 2023
Extensive interview preparation is a must. Research investment banking interview formats and study frequent behavioral and technical questions. Perform mock case/fit/technical interviews to practice. Review your story and walk through potential answers to behavioral questions. financial modeling practice is critical. Know accounting and valuation cold. The more practice interviews under your belt, the more confident and compelling you will be during recruitment.
Polish your resume for sophomore investment banking internships 2023
Though your experience will be limited as a sophomore, you can still craft an impressive resume. Quantify achievements in academic, professional and extracurricular experiences. Tailor your resume for each application. Highlight leadership positions, collaborative projects, technical skills and any relevant finance experience. Benchmark resumes of current analysts. Ensure your resume is flawless – free from typos and formatting errors.
In conclusion, landing competitive investment banking internships as an underclassman requires early, strategic preparation. Leveraging networking, underclassman programs, technical skills development and extensive interview practice well before recruitment will maximize your candidacy at target firms in 2023. The earlier you start, the better positioned you will be to land a top sophomore investment banking internship.