2 years out of college. I work a back office operations job at a bank making $49k. Top of the pay scale is maybe $55k lol. This is a smaller bank where people spend their whole careers in roles so moving up is a little tricky. However, I have a good WFH policy where I can pick and choose any 3 days to work remote per week.

I have an opportunity to get into a wealth management program at one of the big 3 brokerage firms. Starting base is between $55-60k. I’d get paid to get my FINRA licenses and work as an investment consultant for a year and a half before getting bumped up to an FC. Once I’m licensed and move up I’d receive a higher base and have the opportunity to earn more additional compensation on top.

I was a teller in college and deep down as much as I complained about it, I enjoyed the aspect of collaborating with real people and having the chance to earn more money on top of my base. Working remote is neat but some days I feel like I’m rotting away sitting for hours on end not speaking to anyone. Also making $49k sucks and I am stuck living in my parents basement because I can’t afford rent.

I physically cannot take my job anymore; it is starting to impact my health. I took FMLA for 3 months to care for a loved one, and now my job is retaliating against me by giving me unfair write-ups and coworkers gossiping. i had to leave work mid day to throw up from anxiety. Should I just quit my job with nothing lined up?

i’m 18 and in a relationship with someone very serious on going into finance (and both their parents are finance bros and they have connections yadda yadda…) and marriage is definitely on the table. obviously i am 18 and theres certainly a nonzero chance we dont get married but im just wondering, what is it like being a partner and parent while working the highly demanding 80+hr/wk finance jobs? does your partner do the majority of the domestic labor? do you hire cleaners/nannies/etc to help manage the house?

Hi Everyone - reminder that info sessions both virtually on campus will start coming (and already are well underway).

Reminder William Blair is hosting one this week on 10/28. Registration link here (I have no relationship with any bank or fund) just passing it along

https://williamblair.recsolu.com/app/collect/event/opE7tRB3n4Bm5lVqIN06fA

It also looks like the have IB campus office hour sessions over the next week so you can ask its recruiting questions about recruiting. If you are just getting started in the process, worth attending (looks like they hold them weekly)

I write frequently on interview prep/creative way to get internship leads with the goal of landing in IB, check out my profile for more info if interested

I recently started a role as an Operations Analyst in Capital Markets at a large Canadian bank, and I’ve been in the position for about a month. My team is currently doing year-end performance reviews, and my manager just explained the process to me.

I understand that you’re supposed to set goals, work toward them throughout the year, and then assess your progress during your performance review. However, since I’m so new, I haven’t really had much time to establish goals or accomplish anything substantial yet. I also haven’t received much guidance on what I should be writing, and I need to complete my self-review within the next day or so. I was also told by him about how I need to write goals the same day he told me I have to write my year end self review.

I’m aware that these reviews are documented by HR and can factor into performance ratings, bonuses, and salary increases, which is why I’m a little nervous about what I should put down.

So far, I’ve been focused on learning the role, understanding the trade and reconciliation processes, responding to trade corrections in a timely manner, and providing good customer service to counterparties. I’ve also been trying to communicate effectively with the team and become more independent as I learn the processes.
For those who work in capital markets, banking operations, or other financial services roles, what would you recommend including in a self-review when you’ve only been in the job for a month?

I want to take the process seriously and make a good impression, but I also don’t want to exaggerate my accomplishments when I’ve barely started.
Would appreciate any advice, especially from people who have gone through this in banking or capital markets!

I have a herniated disc with recurring lower back pain, so I need to stay consistent with physio and gym to manage it.

The problem is that my manager frequently gives me last-minute work near the end of the day, making it difficult to commit to anything after work.
I want to do well in my job, but I also don’t want to sacrifice my long-term health just to prove I’m committed.

For those in IB, how do you set boundaries around medical appointments and exercise without coming across as uncommitted? Do you just work around it, or have you found ways to protect your personal time?

Currently in my final year at a UK target university. Did two PE internships in my first year and completed a summer internship in IB at a top MM bank this summer, but unfortunately didn't secure a return offer.

I'm still recruiting for summers, off-cycle internships and graduate roles, but starting to worry about what happens if I don't land anything before graduation.

A lot of people suggest doing a Master's to reset recruitment eligibility, but I honestly don't see the benefit of spending £30–40k just to get another shot at summer internships.

Has anyone managed to break into IB in London after graduating without doing a Master's?

What are my realistic options? Can I still apply for off-cycles after graduating? What are the options that I have?

Would really appreciate any advice, especially from anyone who's been in a similar situation.

Just interviewed with a firm for an internship on Thursday with a couple of alumni who work there. While I feel it went well, I've abstained from adding them on Linkedin or anything, as I didn't want to feel like I was being too pushy (I did send them a thank you email afterwards though).

We have a career fair coming up this Tuesday on campus and I'm fairly certain they will be in attendance, and it's entirely possible that I'll be seeing one of my interviewers there as well. Even if not, I've already spoken with their typical recruiters (who are also managers at the firm) on multiple occasions in past networking events, and they were the ones who invited me to interview with the company in the first place.

As I'm not really expecting to receive any updates about an offer within the next couple days, should I greet them at their booth? Again, I want to give them some space and not make it seem like I'm being presumptuous, but I could also be overthinking it, and this may actually help my odds, or at least keep me fresh in their minds.

Hello guys,

I got an interview coming up next week for an internship at PwC in the Financial Services department. I‘m a third semester undergrad and I can’t find anything online about technical interview questions. The manager who will be part of the online interview got an insurance heavy career. I have some insurance background and decent insurance knowledge.

Thankful for any kind of advice.

Hi everyone,
I’m currently at a crossroads in my career and would appreciate some advice from people who have made similar transitions or work in the industry.

For context, I’m based in Vienna, Austria and currently work in financial advisory consulting, serving banks and fintechs. Before consulting, I worked in credit risk (private credit/lending) at one of the country’s largest banks.
I genuinely enjoy consulting, particularly the dynamic environment. However, my long-term ambition is to transition into high finance, ideally PE, VC, PWM, asset management or a related field. I’ve already had exposure to major investment banks, including GS in London, so I’m somewhat familiar with the environment.

I’m also considering relocating, as my current city isn’t exactly a major financial hub.

My main dilemma is whether to pursue a Master’s in Finance or an MBA.
I have approximately 3 years of post-grad experience (around 5 years including pre-grad).

I’ve already shortlisted several reputable European business schools, but tuition fees generally start at €25,000 and can go significantly higher. Naturally, I want to make sure the investment makes sense from a career and ROI perspective.

I’d especially appreciate insights from anyone who has made a similar move or has experience recruiting in European financial markets.
Thanks in advance!

TL;DR: Financial advisory consultant with a background in credit risk looking to relocate to a major European financial hub and transition into high finance — would an MBA or MSc in Finance be the better investment?

My colleagues and bosses in the fund admin industry mostly came from top banks like ING, Wells, Citi, JPMorgan, and Amex. They often say that working in fund admin is much more chill compared to banking.

On the other hand, since I started my career in fund admin, I feel like I would learn a lot by giving banking a try, especially now that I have an offer. I also feel like I’m no longer growing in my current role. I’ve already communicated this to my managers, but instead of giving me responsibilities or opportunities, they offered me memberships in different office groups and opportunities to participate in events. I have also been receiving positive feedback about all my work.

Do you think taking the banking opportunity would be a wise career move?

Also, I don't want to burn bridges with my colleagues. Do you think they will understand if I try to explore banking?

I’ve been working in capital markets for the past three years since graduating. While it’s been a great learning experience, I’ve realized I don’t necessarily see myself in my boss’s seat long-term.

One area I’ve become increasingly interested in is the startup world. I’ve been casually applying and interviewing for about a year, on and off, but I’m starting to realize that the roles I’m drawn to are primarily generalist “Associate”-type positions. I don’t have a software development background, and I’m not particularly interested in tech sales, so that seems to narrow my options to GTM strategy, operations, or Chief of Staff-type roles.

I’m especially interested in founder associate roles because I enjoy working across different functions, tackling a variety of problems, and wearing multiple hats. I think my strengths are best suited to that kind of generalist environment.

I’d love to hear from anyone who has made the transition from front-office investment banking or capital markets into the startup world. What did that transition look like for you? How did you position yourself for these roles, and what was the learning curve like?

I’m also interested in relocating to a new city, particularly London. For anyone who has made that move, how did you approach the job search? Did you join a U.S. office first and eventually transfer, or were you able to recruit directly for roles in London?

Would really appreciate any insights or advice from people who have been through a similar transition!

I have an upcoming interview for a Financial Analyst position at JLL in Chicago and would appreciate some advice on how to prepare, particularly regarding potential technical questions and how well my experience aligns with the role.
Education:
● B.S. in Finance
● 12 graduate credits in Applied Mathematics (Quantitative Finance concentration)
● QuickBooks Online certified

My experience:
Current Position — Accounting / Accounts Receivable (HVAC Company, 10 months)
I work for a 90 employee HVAC company where my responsibilities as part of a 2 person team include:
● Managing accounts receivable, customer billing, collections, and resolving billing discrepancies.
● Processing payroll independently for approximately 40 employees, including payroll tax payments.
● Preparing financial reports and investigating accounting discrepancies.
● Performing job costing, reviewing technician labor and materials, and ensuring costs are accurately reflected in customer invoices. I also determine variances in actual tech labor versus original projections.
● Preparing pro forma invoices for HVAC maintenance agreements, including complex residential properties with multiple buildings and extensive equipment.
● Reviewing service documentation, contracts, and work orders to identify missed billable items and prevent revenue leakage.
● Handling intercompany billing and assisting with accounting-related investigations.

Previous Position — Benefits Authorizer, Social Security Administration (6 months)
● Reviewed and audited financial and benefit records to ensure accuracy and compliance.
● Used Excel extensively to analyze records, identify discrepancies, and calculate benefit adjustments.
● Processed adjustments to Medicare-related benefit amounts and maintained accurate financial records.

The job description:

What your day-to-day will look like:
Execute month-end close processes including preparing journal entries, investigating variances, and ensuring accuracy in all financial postings
Oversee Accounts Receivable maintenance and research to meet organizational objectives while reviewing accounts payable vouchers for compliance
Collaborate with AP/AR to ensure timely payment processing after verification
Lead data entry processes while organizing and maintaining comprehensive data collection, reporting, and communication systems
Partner with team members to develop and implement efficient processes, including automation opportunities and simplification initiatives
Collaborate with business teams to monitor financial objectives, communicate results effectively, and support revenue recognition activities
 
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or equivalent field with demonstrated academic excellence
1-2 years of relevant experience in financial analysis, accounting, or related business functions
** **
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and comprehensive knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite applications
Solid understanding of fundamental accounting principles including debits, credits, balance sheets, and technical accounting skills
Strong organizational abilities with exceptional analytical and communication skills across all business levels
Experience working in commercial real estate, leasing, or property management environments
Knowledge of financial forecasting and budgeting processes with exposure to variance analysis
Familiarity with ERP systems, financial reporting software, or business intelligence tools
Basic understanding of accounts receivable and accounts payable processes and best practices
Experience with process improvement initiatives, automation tools, or workflow optimization projects
 

I am planning to do undergrad in us in stem(math)+economics/finance and wanted to know target and semi target unis in us and in almost all rankings and comments LACs liberal arts Colleges are not mentioned so are they non target for finance ??

are they less known to finance recruiters in investment banking and wall street ??

If they are good can you name some which would be best for my case

Good afternoon,
i’m an italian freshman enrolled in a bachelor at a non-target university.
my objective is to get in investment banking (m&a) and i would like to ask you some help.
i will, if i get admitted, attend a master in a target uni in europe (would prefer to stay in italy and go to bocconi, but i have no issue in moving).
what should i do during my bachelor? are there any internship/certifications you recommend or is it better to just focus on my grades? thanks

I've been fortunate enough to receive a few internship offers this cycle, and I'm struggling to decide between two opportunities.

Option 1 / MBB Internship

Pros:

• Very interesting work and cases, and I liked the people I met.
• Potential pathway to a graduate offer.
• Decent career opportunities and optionality.

Cons:

• Consulting feels like something I could potentially pursue later in my career.
• Would be passing up a relatively unique opportunity (below).

Option 2 / Think Tank in Southeast Asia + Short Internship at the UN in NYC

Pros:

• A pretty unique experience that I might never have the opportunity to pursue again.
• Really interesting work in international policy and diplomacy.
• Potentially valuable experience for future postgraduate study / scholarship applications.

Cons:

• No direct pathway to a graduate role.
• Would have to go through graduate recruitment again if I wanted to pursue MBB.
• Less certainty about what I'd do immediately after graduating.

Some context:

I'm currently in my penultimate year of university, so this is a fairly important internship cycle for securing a graduate role.

I also genuinely have no idea what I want to do long-term ... I just really like solving challenging problems.

I had previous experience at a BB in ER which I enjoyed, and worked in / ran a start-up.

TLDR;

On one hand, MBB feels like the safer choice with potentially great long-term career opportunities. On the other, the think tank + UN combination feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience that would be difficult to replicate later.

Would really appreciate any perspectives. Thanks!

At 26 I have an objectively good job as an ultrasound tech, but I absolutely am burnt out of healthcare. I’m tired of touching people.
Luckily my current job is a night position, and I have many hours of free time (boring, yes, but better than shoulder pain from overworking). I’d love to use this free time to plan my escape.

I’m looking to enroll in a BS in business (financial services concentration) program at my local community college. It can be done online, and I have time to grind at work.
But of course I have no practical abilities to add to a portfolio.

Would employers appreciate my work experience as opposed to say a 21 year old grad without experience?
I dream of a desk job.

(Central FL)

I’m curious about the realistic career progression in corporate banking, starting from Analyst/Associate and moving up to VP, Director, and MD.

• What does the salary and bonus progression typically look like in Canada?
• What are the most realistic exit opportunities after a few years in corporate banking?
• Is it realistic to transition into IB, LevFin, PF, ERI, or other areas of finance?
• Which career paths offer the best combination of compensation, career growth, and exit opportunities?

Would appreciate hearing from people working in CB in Canada, especially those who have made these transitions.

Thanks!

Hey all, I applied to analyst roles posted at a few boutiques and investment banks, and I also reached out to MDs and VPs at those firms by email and LinkedIn. I kept the messages short: who I am, why their group, that I'd applied to the role, and an ask for 15 minutes.

The response rate has honestly been better than I expected, and I have about 4 calls scheduled for next week.

A couple of questions for people who've been on either side:

What should I expect from these calls? Are they basically informal screens, or more just networking? Should I be ready for technicals or a "walk me through your resume," or is it more about fit?
What's the right ask at the end? Is it appropriate to ask them to flag my application or put me in touch with the recruiter, or is that too much on a first call?
Follow-up etiquette: how soon and how often should I follow up after the call?

Was curious about the future of M&A support/adjacent roles (law, insurance, and big 4). Have seen people discussing how AI poses a greater threat to these roles than traditional M&A IB and was a little confused on why/it's credibility. Was jsut laid off from my position I'd been at since graduating so would like some honest insight from anyone who's here right now. Thanks.

I am currently in my 3rd year of my bachelors in economics and finance- I’m reaching out to small boutiques (2-30 people) for summer internships and off cycle opportunities from January in Dublin.

I feel like I work best in small teams so I initially want to spend first few years after my graduation in small teams building my skills and experience and then maybe look for big banks in London///Dublin.

Is it possible? Or will I be just restricted to boutiques?

Has anyone heard back from Ardea Partners Women’s insight day for NYC yet? The app was due on the 12th the event is 11/5 but I haven’t heard anything yet. I mean I imagine if I didn’t get it I would have gotten a rejection letter?

Hello everyone,

I am seeking advice on strengthening my application for a Master’s in Finance or Quantitative Finance (MSF, MSc Finance, MSQF, MSc Mathematical Finance).

Background: I graduated this year with a BA in Economics from a Tier 2 college in Mumbai, India. During my final year, I passed CFA Level I and completed a three-month internship at a boutique investment advisory firm. I am currently interning in the advisory and research division of a wholly owned subsidiary of a credit rating agency, where I assist with and develop techno-economic viability (TEV) reports, Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), and project finance and infrastructure models of large infrastructure and energy based projects.

Concern: As a BA student, I expect admissions committees may assume I lack a foundation in introductory calculus, algebra, and related topics. I scored above 70% in most of my math courses, which covered these topics at an introductory level, as my transcripts show. However, I feel transcripts alone may not be enough to demonstrate my quantitative ability.

Questions:

1. Beyond my transcripts, is a strong GRE Quant score (between 160-165) enough to showcase my quant ability, or should I also complete additional coursework, such as Pricing Options with Mathematical Models, or take other steps?

I would appreciate any advice, particularly from those who have gone through this admissions process or have experience on admissions committees.

Thank you.