texasexpat wrote:
I have a question as to the level of specificity for the short-term goals aspect of the career goals essay.
For a brief intro, I am currently in accounting/operations at a hedge fund. I’d like to move into investment banking post-MBA, with a long-term view of starting a fund based on my investment banking experiences.
For some schools with high finance placement rates, I’ve said something along the lines of “I want to enter investment banking as an associate serving financial services clients” (industry, function).
However, for other schools outside of NY and major finance powerhouses, but nonetheless do place in investment banking, I think they place in local offices for that area’s industry need (e.g. in Texas it’s energy. For UCLA investment banking it tends to be retail, entertainment co’s.) As I understand, investment banks will place people in groups as well depending on need, so at the end of the day it may not be 100% my choice.
So the question is, if I say I want to go into ibanking serving financial services clients (even though the school is located in an area dominated by other industries), am I shutting the door on myself?
Thank you so much!
No, you're not shutting the door on yourself, but I do think it makes sense to demonstrate that you've done research into the recruiting at these schools and recognize that there are a few roles within IB that you are interested in. Why waste an opportunity to highlight that you really know what you're getting yourself into?
One thing you may also want to do is explain how the network you have already established is going to help you secure the ideal position after you graduate. This takes the burden off of the schools to place you in your absolutely perfect position.