Global Businessman Father Leads to Top Banking Internship

This summer, I have the exciting opportunity to intern at a major global investment bank in New York City. At 23 years old, this will be my fifth internship in financial services. If you’re aiming for a job in M&A with a top investment bank, unfortunately, it’s essential to put in this level of work.

I have a deep passion for business and banking, likely influenced by my father who is a global businessman. Growing up internationally, I’ve lived in various countries, which has given me a unique perspective on the industry. I understand the importance of hard work and am fully prepared to commit to the long hours required in M&A.

Many people are drawn to banking for the financial rewards, but I believe true success in the industry comes from a genuine love for the work. If money is your sole motivation, this field may not be the right fit for you.

I’m no stranger to long days and minimal sleep. During my undergraduate years, I worked full-time at a small fund while completing my college coursework on weekends. It was a challenging balancing act, especially since the fund didn’t pay me, but it provided me with invaluable experience that helped me secure more internships.

Securing a spot in M&A at a major bank is highly competitive and typically requires a foundation of relevant experience and prior internships. Building a strong resume in the financial services industry is key to success.

In my case, I didn’t rely on connections or nepotism to land internships. Instead, I sent out countless applications to smaller firms and attended networking events in various financial hubs. Persistence and dedication paid off, allowing me to climb the internship ladder steadily and secure a coveted position this summer.

The banking industry values hard work and dedication, and those qualities can help you stand out. Demonstrating intelligence, passion, and a willingness to put in the effort can set you apart in a competitive field like banking.

While I acknowledge that having financial resources can make it easier to pursue these opportunities, I also recognize the challenges faced by those without that luxury. Finding ways to gain pre-internship experience while juggling other responsibilities can be tough, but don’t let financial constraints discourage you from pursuing your goals in finance.

Ultimately, success in banking comes down to a combination of hard work, passion, and persistence. Building a strong foundation of experience and demonstrating dedication to the industry can open doors to fulfilling career opportunities.