Low GPA but Strong Experience – Seeking Guidance
Hi everyone,
I’m currently a sophomore at a Canadian Semj Target with a 3.1 GPA (I recognize that it’s on the lower side). However, I’ve honed my interviewing and networking skills, which helped me secure a summer analyst position at either Vanguard, Fidelity, or T. Rowe for my upcoming sophomore summer.
I’m looking for advice on how to approach junior summer recruiting. I have an off-cycle internship lined up, so I haven’t missed any recruiting opportunities.
To address my GPA, I’m considering the following options:
1. Omit my GPA from my resume and hope to land a Front Office position in Asset Management, Equity Research, or Market Making.
2. Transfer to another school to start fresh with a new GPA, which would extend my graduation timeline by a year.
3. Focus on raising my GPA to at least a 3.4 while actively networking.
I would appreciate any insights or suggestions. Thanks!
One response
It sounds like you’re in a good position with your summer analyst spot, and your networking skills will definitely help you in the recruiting process. Here are some thoughts on your options:
Remove GPA from resume: While this might help in the short term, many employers will still verify your GPA and removing it could raise red flags. It’s generally better to be transparent and focus on presenting your strengths and experiences.
Transfer schools: This could be a viable option if you’re genuinely unhappy with your current school and believe another institution can offer you a better academic environment and support. However, transferring can be a significant decision that may extend your timeline, so weigh the pros and cons carefully.
Focus on raising GPA: This is often the best route, especially since you’re already in the process of building your experience. Aiming for a 3.4 can make a significant difference. Additionally, continue to network and leverage your internship experience. Your skills and experience can often outweigh GPA concerns, especially in fields like finance where hands-on experience is highly valued.
Ultimately, the third option seems like the most feasible and productive. Continue to build on your current experience, reach out to professionals in the field, and focus on improving your GPA. Good luck!