sarah12344 wrote:
Hi, everyone! I'm beginning my preparations for my MBA journey in the future (possibly between 2030-2032). Currently, I'm enrolled as an undergraduate (bachelor) student at a top-tier engineering school in Brazil, and quite possibly the best in Latin America, although I'm not entirely certain. However, I must admit that my GPA is not as impressive, currently standing at around 6.5/10. My goal is to raise it to approximately 7/10 by the time I complete my bachelor's degree in 2024. Despite the demanding nature of my course (Electrical Engineering), where grades above 7 are considered excellent, I firmly believe that there are no excuses. My true passion lies in the field of Finance (being more specific PE/VC industry), and unfortunately, my current course of study doesn't align with my aspirations. To give more details about my profile, I engaged in some extracurricular activities that are in line with my profile. I was a member of the finance club of my uni, I have achieved few accomplishments such as winning an international equity research competition, teaching a course to help engineering students transition into finance roles, organizing networking events with influential figures in the Brazilian financial market, and contributing to volunteer work, among other experiences.
Given my circumstances, I would appreciate insights on how to further strengthen my profile and maximize my chances of gaining admission to a top 10-15 business school in the future.
Here are a few steps I'm planning to take in the coming years:
- Enroll in a post-graduation course in finance to secure an excellent GPA.
- Work diligently towards obtaining the CFA Charterholder designation.
- Prepare thoroughly for the GMAT, starting 1.5 years in advance, with the goal of achieving a score around 740-760.
- Seek opportunities to gain valuable experience by working in a regional or international PE firm, thereby enhancing the relevance of my professional background.
I eagerly await tips and guidance. Thank you!
Posted from my mobile device
sarah12344 I am genuinely impressed with your meticulous planning. I sincerely hope that you can maintain a high GPA and successfully execute all the steps you have outlined.
Entering the private equity space is one of the most difficult and competitive endeavors in the financial industry. While the financial rewards can be promising, the actual process of entering the industry is extremely challenging. So, the key to entering the private equity industry is to start planning as early as possible, which is what you are currently doing.
The demand for entry into the private equity industry is incredibly high, which means that private equity firms only hire the very best professionals when it comes to placing new business. However, the right experience can make entering the private equity sector much easier.
Some common paths to enter the private equity industry would be:
1. Investment banking: perhaps the easiest way to get into private equity firms. Private equity firms recruit top analysts from investment banking programs, so it is critical to excel during your master's program to attract the attention of leading firms.
2. Management Consulting: Moving from a top-tier management consulting firm (with finance focus) to a private equity firm is somewhat similar to moving from investment banking to private equity. Some private equity firms hire high-level consultants after the first two years in consulting, particularly those with bachelor's degrees in finance, accounting, or economics.
3. Postgraduate studies: although less common, it is possible to join a private equity firm directly after graduation. However, it can be more difficult to move to other firms later on because of limited skills and lack of experience on the sell side, which some private equity firms place a high value on.
4. After the MBA program: private equity firms also recruit top candidates from business schools that score well in their respective recruiting processes. Although this path is not as common as the previous ones, it is possible to enter the private equity business without prior investment banking or private equity experience. I must mention, however, that this path is very difficult without relevant experience, although not impossible.
Another option, but one that can take time, is to join a preferably small boutique or mid-market focused bank. Do your best in your role and make extensive contacts with private equity firms during your tenure.
In addition, there is a growing trend for small mid-market private equity firms to hire outstanding valuation candidates with exceptional educational backgrounds, although this route may not be as successful.
Most important, however, is networking. Focus on building relationships with low- and mid-market private equity firms that may consider candidates with non-traditional career backgrounds or those seeking varied experiences.
With all of the above avenues, it is important to prepare thoroughly for interviews. Private equity firms look for candidates with stamina, intelligence, confidence, strong presentation skills, technical knowledge, company knowledge, actual business experience, and cultural fit.
After your Masters and a few years in the industry as pre-MBA associate, target top feeder MBAs such as HWS, INSEAD, Columbia, LBS etc.
Best wishes
Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsultingLinkedIn |WEBSITE:
https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email-
mbaguideconsulting@gmail.com