I'm currently a senior at the University of San Diego and I'll graduate with my BBA (Marketing major) in May. I started my professional experience as an Intern for Merrill Lynch, but have since moved to UTC Aerospace Systems to work as an intern in the finance group there because they pay really well. There are plenty of investment management/financial sales internships that pay little or nothing, but I can't afford to live solely on the GI Bill, so my options are limited.
USD is arguably the best business school in San Diego, but my GPA is not great (I had a tough transition out of active duty, stationed overseas, to a school that isn't very receptive towards vets). I've held 3 internships and my experience is mostly in Finance yet my major is Marketing.
Basically, I'm trying to find a way to get my series 7 license (among others) while still in school. Also, I need help breaking into a financial sales role at a SD/Socal based mutual fund. Any and all help would be extremely appreciated. I'm originally from Boston so i'm on my own out here and I really need to have a smooth transition out of school. Thank you so much,
-TJ
Answers
Most businesses are looking for leadership ability, whether in finance, marketing or sales. The military are recognized as the best source of good leaders. Your resume should be geared to this field. I would think an internship with Merrill Lynch should open some doors. Resume preparation is extremely important. A job objective should be included and should be customized; depending upon the job you are applying for. The resume should be brief, and give an employer reasons to hire you. This may sound elementary and it is, however, many resumes are submitted with errors. Check carefully for spelling and grammatical errors. I know from experience, the first glance of the person reading your resume will be to find reasons not to hire you. Employers receive hundreds of resumes, and the first screening is to disqualify applicants, so be guided accordingly. The actual search should include contacts that you have developed relationships, and work for a company that you would enjoy working for. Many times it is who you know, not what you know. Corporate websites of large banks and trading companies, such as Chase Manhattan, Citibank, all post current openings. Head hunters in finance can be found by googling them, and are a good source. There are websites like Monster.com, Salesladders.com, headhunters.com, careerbuilder.com, are another source for leads. If you have other questions, feel free to email me at: yanknole@aol.com. Mike Convey
Thomas,
A few thoughts below. Let's also try to speak on the phone this week or next.
* Apply for an ACP mentor
* perhaps contact WSWF and ask for networking assistance, etc.
http://www.wallstreetwarfighters.org/index.html (unsure if all trainees must be disabled)
* I have a contact at Edward Jones that is a Veteran if that interests you.
http://www.ejcareer.com/us/military/
Hi TJ,
Are you still looking for career opportunities in San Diego area? If so, let me know, we are expanding and are looking for good people!
Li
Thomas,
Do you have a LinkedIn profile and resume in PDF format that you can share?
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