Hey,
I am sure this topic has been beaten to death but I could use some help. Currently I am working in Baltimore at MS's back office and I have IB dreams. I realize getting into IB is an uphill battle and I am driven to make the climb. Before I go ahead and do something that may waste 6 months of my time for little return I figured I would ask here.
I am studying for the CFA Lvl 1 in Dec, with intent to sign up for it when I receive my passport in the next week or two. I figured this would show that I am motivated and would help differentiate my resume a little bit, even if minimally. Currently I am averaging around 15 hours a week of study time. This would be the 6 month time waster I mentioned above.
Upon passing Level 1, I would start studying for the GMAT, put about 4 months in and aim for a score of 650-700. The only schools in my proximity are Loyola, University of Maryland, Johns Hopkins, and (a stretch as it is an hour from me) Georgetown. I am not sure whether an MSF or an MBA would be right for me, but I am leaning more toward the MSF. My goal would be to keep my GPA in the 3.7-3.9 range.
Being that I have no formal experience in IB I was going to purchase Wall Street Preps modeling course and learn that inside and out. That combined with whatever IB books (think Investment Banking by Rosenbaum & Pearl) will hopefully help me answer technical questions on interviews.
I have a few friends in investment banking that are willing to help, but I think it is best to get my rebranding established before trying to use their help.
What would you suggest my path be?
Thank you.