Overcoming a Low GPA
I want an internship in investment banking and have a 3.3 GPA. The posting lists a minimum GPA requirement of 3.7. What can I do to get them to interview me?
Answer
Because investment banking is so competitive, the bar is set quite high. And because recruiters make quick work of scanning resumes, they’re looking first for that high GPA, and second for other requirements. You need to network here if you are going to get your foot in the door. Call everyone you know in an attempt to find some good contacts at the company. Hopefully, the connection will be made and you can impress them with your abilities. If someone at Career Services can vouch for your abilities, perhaps they can put in a good word. Anytime your resume is at a disadvantage (in this case because of a GPA, but it could be because you have an unrelated major, no direct experience, etc.), you need to rely on networking and not the resume drop.
Connie Thanasoulis is co-founder of SixFigureStart, a career-coaching firm that provides expert guidance to ensure success early in a young professional's career. She comes from 25 years of experience with Fortune 500 companies, including Merrill Lynch, Pfizer, and Citigroup.
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