Diversity Programs for Investment Banking
Investment banking firms offer many diversity programs to encourage under-represented groups to consider a career in Investment Banking. These programs range from single-day info-sessions to week-long conferences and full summer internship programs. Many diversity programs are open to freshmen, sophomores, and juniors of various under-represented backgrounds including but not limited to: women, first-generation, Black, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, LGBT, disabilities, veterans. There is a lot of range in terms of the focus of the diversity programs with some emphasizing leadership and others focusing specifically on IB.
“I would definitely recommend applying to diversity programs, even if you’re not sure about banking. Sometimes the perception of finance and banking on campus can be skewed when all your information is secondhand. These are a great chance to actually meet people in the industry and see their offices, not to mention covered travel and hotel costs, which are a nice perk.”
- Harvard Class of 2021, attended Barclays diversity program
Many diversity programs will include an introduction to the industry and firm, with presentations, Q&A panels, and networking opportunities with a range of employees from analysts to MDs. Most of them also include first round interviews or even superdays for internships as well.
“I got my offer after a diversity program in March 2019, over a year before the actual internship would begin.”
- Harvard Class of 2021, attended Morgan Stanley diversity program
The Application Process
“Each firm usually only selects a handful of people for each diversity program from Harvard, so the process can be a bit competitive. The process normally includes a Hirevue (usually not technical) and a resume submission. I think the best way to stand out is to clearly distinguish yourself based on your experiences and why you’re interested in attending the diversity program.”
- Harvard Class of 2021, attended BofA diversity program
留言