Hello,
I was wondering if any of you had any major successes in MSF programs that are not necessarily considered top programs. By success I mean that you were able to make a complete turnaround, break into FO roles, be it in IB/AM/ER or whatever that you wanted to do. My problem is that for family related reasons I am applying only in cali (USC, UCSD, UCI, maybe Santa Clara), and besides USC my options aren't so great. I have been studying nonstop for 2.5 months to compensate my 3.0 gpa with a killer (750+) GMAT but you never know what might happen. I am currently 25 years old and by the time I finish a 2018 program I will be almost 27. I really don't want to wait another year to apply with a better resume. I have seen some people mention success stories from unknown MSF programs in these forums, but I wanted to get some opinions specifically for my scenario.
I have an ambitious 1.5 year plan wherever I go. I am sitting for CFA lvl 1 this summer, and lvl 2 next summer (assuming that I pass lvl 1). By the time the program starts I will use my CFA 1 to network to find any relevant internships (I believe this will be key since experience trumps everything else). I will try to get at least 2-3 internships throughout the year, network as much as possible, write ER reports/stock pitches. learn modeling, and continue reading finance books as I have for some time now. I want to build a career in AM/HF so I will consider myself successful if I am able to land either an ER, IB (not something I would like to do really), or anything in between by the end of all this.
I know money is what keeps most people away from such programs when they know that it will cost them another 60-80k, but for me prospects of success are priceless. I value my time and youth a lot more. So what do you think. Would it be possible to pull something off? Any relevant personal stories? I am very motivated going into the new year and wanted to hear some success stories. Thank you.
Happy New Years, Cheers!