<p>I'm a freshman at a small university in the south, and I'm some what intrigued by what investment banking has to offer. I realize from reading many posts on this specific forum that many people say that it is extremely difficult (long hours), demands almost perfect grades and connections but somehow I find this very fascinating. What are some first steps so I can learn more about whether or not I would be interested in investment banking? Any books, guides, reputable websites or suggestions would really be appreciated!</p>
<p>Investment Banking news: [MERGERS</a> & ACQUISITIONS - DealBook Blog - NYTimes.com](<a href=“DealBook - The New York Times”>DealBook - The New York Times)</p>
<p>Best Forum: [WallStreetOasis.com</a> | Wall Street Interviews, Career Advice, and Business News](<a href=“http://www.wallstreetoasis.com/]WallStreetOasis.com”>http://www.wallstreetoasis.com/)</p>
<p>Great source for college students: [Understanding</a> Investment Banking | Mergers & Inquisitions](<a href=“http://www.mergersandinquisitions.com/]Understanding”>http://www.mergersandinquisitions.com/)</p>
<p>Books about IB culture: Liar’s Poker(S&T), Monkey Business(CorpFin)</p>
<p>If you don’t go to a school where banks come for on campus recruiting, then you will need to put in a lot of effort to break into the industry. Read all you can and start building relationships with bankers. If you start now it will be easier later.</p>