<p>I am very new to this site, as a matter of fact, this is my first post, so I apologize in advance if I do anything wrong. I want to go into investment banking, and I do not go to an Ivy League or top tier school or anything like that, but I do go to a decent business school and am aiming to graduate with a 3.8 gpa ( I'm a freshman currently and I have a 3.8 currently). I have an uncle who works at a bulge bracket bank and is a managing director, which I understand to be pretty high up. I am wondering if he can help me, if at all, getting a job there after college. I don't see him too often, but I am going to talk to him sometime soon and I know for a fact he would definitely do everything he can to help. So my question is, can he really even help me or do anything for me??</p>
<p>If you are as qualified as any applicant and have a high GPA and attend a target school, yes he can help you to get an interview. However, it’s up to you to to get the offer.</p>
<p>He can do a lot to help you get an interview opportunity despite you going to a “non target” school. Find excuses to talk to him about career aspirations and ask for internship opportunities. Most people want their family members to do well, especially in finance where personal relationships are arguably the biggest asset one has.</p>
<p>I disagree with cbreeze. If you uncle is a “Senior MD” and has alot of pull, he can essentially push you in relatively easily or he can make a few phone calls to those who are interviewing you to push the odds in your favor. At the end of the day, this industry is highly dependent on relationships, especially the more senior you get; make sure your uncle likes you, and constantly keep in touch with him. If you’re in the city, have coffee “to catch up” and then casually bring up your career and any advice he may dispense. Bankers love to talk about themselves and how successful they are, etc. </p>
<p>You’ll be surprised at how important WHO you know in the industry is versus WHAT you know. Sad, but true.</p>
<p>^^i think it is both, what and who, but networking is essential, ie, who. This is specially true at the start of your career. As years go by, the what becomes more important.</p>
<p>Use your connection.</p>