Please Help :(

Let’s get straight to business, 

Im currently a freshman from outside the US but have green-card. 
 I live in a major tech hub.
I’ve done software development internship in a big well known company in my country before Uni, then completed VC internship in the 1st semester and know starting 2nd VC internship.

I want to do tech investing in the US after Uni and want to leave all doors open (VC / GE / Tech Buyouts).

But the problem is I’ll probably won’t be able to get into IB in the US after undergrad… 

Which will make it borderline impossible to get into the Thoma Bravos and the Vistas of the industry…


What would you advise me to do? 
Is it possible to go from GE straight out of undergrad to software/tech Buyouts?


Thanks.

 

Based on the WSO threads and discussions, here's a strategic approach to your situation:

  1. Leverage Your Current Experience: Your internships in software development and venture capital are valuable. Continue to build on this experience, focusing on roles that align with tech and investment. This will strengthen your resume and make you a more attractive candidate for tech investing roles in the U.S.

  2. Networking: Since you're in a major tech hub, take full advantage of networking opportunities. Connect with professionals in the industry through LinkedIn, attend tech meetups, and participate in investment forums. Networking can often open doors that traditional pathways might not.

  3. Skill Development: Continue to enhance your technical and financial analysis skills. Courses in financial modeling, valuation, and market analysis could be beneficial. WSO Courses or similar platforms offer specific training that could enhance your profile for tech investing roles.

  4. Consider Master’s Programs: If breaking into IB directly from undergrad proves challenging, consider pursuing a Master’s degree in finance or a related field from a well-recognized U.S. university. This can provide a strong educational background and potentially offer on-campus recruiting opportunities with top firms.

  5. Alternative Pathways: While IB provides a well-trodden path to buyout roles, it's not the only one. With your background, you could look into joining a tech-focused boutique investment bank or a startup in a strategic role. These experiences can also lead to opportunities in growth equity or tech buyouts, albeit less directly.

  6. Stay Informed and Adaptable: The landscape of tech investing and financial careers is continually evolving. Stay informed about industry trends and be adaptable in your career planning. Sometimes, lateral moves or unconventional paths can lead to the desired outcome.

Remember, while the path from GE to tech buyouts isn't the most common, it's not impossible. Focus on building a robust skill set, gaining relevant experience, and networking effectively. These steps will increase your chances of transitioning into tech buyouts or similar roles in the future.

Sources: Technology IB Coverage Group - Exits, Interview Preparation, etc., Qatalyst/CVP vs GS/MS top group?, Why Growth Equity vs Buyout?, Q&A: BB M&A Banking to PE Associate and then a Pivot to a Tech VC / Growth Equity, Q&A: 1st Year Analyst Software M&A - From non-target knucklehead to front office M&A

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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