Hi everyone,
I’m currently in my final year at one of the old IITs (NIRF Rank 1). I got in with an under-1000 rank. My acads are 9/9/6.
Over the last few years, I’ve developed a strong interest in finance. I’ve done internships in both finance and AI, and I’ve recently been placed as a Management Trainee at one of the largest wealth management firms in India (listed on NSE).
Right now, I’m trying to plan my next 3–4 years strategically. My tentative thought process is:
- Take up the MT role
- Complete ~1 year of work experience
- Clear CFA Level 1 and Level 2
- Attempt CAT 2026
- Target BLACKI
My long-term goal is to move into top-tier finance roles (IB, PE, VC, top front-end finance profiles) through campus placements.
My key question is:
If I go down this path (1 year WE + CFA L2 + IIT background + 9/9/6), and hypothetically convert BLACKI, would I still be competitive for top finance summer internship roles? Or would my profile be considered weak compared to CAs/commerce grads/multi-year finance professionals?
I’m especially concerned about:
- The 9/9/6 (does the 6 hurt badly in shortlists?)
- Only 1 year of work ex
- Wealth management vs hardcore IB-type pre-MBA experience
Would really appreciate honest, practical insights from people who’ve seen finance placements closely.
Trying to think long-term and avoid a strategic mistake early in my career.
Thanks in advance 🙏