Episode 356: How to Break Into Investment Banking From a Non-Target School

Our student Jordan was attending a non-target liberal arts college and had been unsuccessful at recruiting on his own formonths. Not knowing how to structure his networking calls or answers in interviews, he knew needed guidance and decided to join WSMM. We soon helped him polish his behaviorals and crush his technicals, landing some of the most prestigious banking interviews. Hear how Jordan went from no offers, to breaking into an elite boutique. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep365

In this episode, we dive deep into the cost of equity, an essential WACC component frequently tested in investment banking interviews. You'll discover how to calculate it using CAPM and why it's crucial for valuing a company. Learn practical tips on framing your answer clearly and confidently. We walk through a real interview-style example to show best practices. Perfect for anyone preparing for finance interviews or aiming to sharpen their technicals. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep364

In this episode, we break down how to calculate WACC, one of the most common technical questions in finance interviews. You'll learn what each component means, from the cost of equity to the after-tax cost of debt. We explain how to determine the right capital structure weights and why WACC is critical in valuation. Using a real JPMorgan HireVue example, we show you how to answer clearly and confidently. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep363

Our student Christian came to us as an astronautical engineering major not knowing anything about finance or having relevant experience. He had taken a gap year and after seeing a few friends go through the recruiting process he decided to give it a try. Hear how WSMM helped him land relevant experience for his resume soon after joining and eventually help him become a top candidate landing a top bulge bracket offer in the SF office. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep362

In this episode, I walk through what a DCF is, one of the most common terms asked about in investment banking interviews. You'll learn how to project future cash flows, estimate terminal value, and determine the appropriate discount rate using WACC. I also explain how to calculate the cost of equity using CAPM, and share key strategies for structuring and delivering your answer clearly and confidently during interviews. Whether you’re prepping for investment banking or just want to master DCF fundamentals, this episode has everything you need to understand the basics. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep361

Need to explain an LBO in a private equity or investment banking interview? In this episode, we break it down in the simplest way possible. We’ll show you how to explain an LBO step by step, draw parallels to real estate to help make the concept stick, and walk through the key math behind the model. Whether you're prepping for PE or IB interviews, this is the practical breakdown you need to stand out. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep360

Our student Jaime had moved to the US from Colombia two years prior and had barely spoken any English. He discovered IB through a finance club but didn't know how to go about the recruiting process. A WSMM alumni referred him to our program and knowing he wanted to get the best offers he decided to join. Hear how after joining our program, he was able to find a supportive community, optimize his networking school, and land a bulge bracket offer. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep359

In this episode, we break down the truth behind the 100 hour myths and sensationalized headlines. The reality is more nuanced think of it like a bell curve, with some intense weeks, some lighter ones, and most falling somewhere in between. We also talk about how the workload often differs between weekdays and weekends, and what you're actually signing up for in those first two years. Yes, there are sacrifices but the rewards are real: a standout resume, high-caliber colleagues, exposure to exciting deals, elite exit opportunities, and top-tier compensation. If you're weighing the pros and cons of a banking career, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep358

Our student Robin had been a refugee from Nepal and was a first generation college student at a small college. He transferred to Virginia Tech his sophomore year but had no finance experience at all. An investment in the program was a huge sacrifice for his low income family, but after hearing our podcasts, he was determined to break into banking. Hear how Robin completely overcame his financial barrier and through our help, secured a $20k scholarship from PIMCO as well as an offer from Bank of America. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep357

Breaking into investment banking from a non-target school is absolutely possible but you need to be strategic. In this episode, we walk you through exactly what it takes: from building a standout resume to gaining relevant finance experience and getting heavily involved in leadership roles. We also dive into the importance of networking smarter and harder, since you won’t have the same alumni connections as target-school students. We also cover how to dominate both technical and behavioral interviews and why starting early makes all the difference. If you’re serious about breaking in, this is the blueprint. Want help securing an offer from a top tier firm on Wall Street? Apply here: wallstmastermind.com/applyutm_source=podcastep356