Feeling Behind for London SA 2026 – No Spring/1st Year Internship
Hi everyone,
I’m currently a 2nd-year student at a London target university, and I’m feeling quite overwhelmed with the upcoming SA recruiting process. I would really appreciate any advice you could offer!
During my first year, I faced some significant family and mental health challenges, which unfortunately prevented me from applying for Spring Weeks or gaining any relevant experience that summer. I also didn’t feel prepared to apply for SA roles last year, so I decided to take a year abroad to extend my degree, giving me the chance to apply as a third-year in a four-year program this year.
Recently, I’ve heard some discouraging comments suggesting that I may be wasting my time with this approach, especially due to the following concerns:
- No Spring Weeks: How can I compensate for this when networking and during applications?
- No First-Year Summer Experience: While I did secure an unpaid PE internship at a lesser-known firm this summer, there’s now a gap between 2023 and 2025 on my resume. How can I effectively frame this experience to avoid raising any red flags?
- Increased Expectations: I’ve been told that banks will anticipate me to be significantly more advanced than typical second-year students since I’ll have an additional year to prepare. However, I’ll be starting my journey in the summer—how can I present my story to avoid appearing as a weak candidate?
I would greatly appreciate any insights you have, whether on the specific concerns I’ve listed or general advice for someone in my situation. Thank you so much for your help!
One response
Hi there,
First off, I want to commend you for sharing your concerns and seeking advice—it’s a brave step, and it shows your determination to succeed despite the challenges you’ve faced. Here are some thoughts that might help you navigate your situation:
Compensating for the lack of Spring Weeks: While Spring Weeks do offer great exposure, they’re not the only pathway into internships. Focus on building your narrative around your unique experiences, especially the challenges you’ve overcome. Use networking opportunities to discuss your motivation and resilience. Highlight any skills you’ve developed during your year abroad or through your internship, even if it was unpaid.
Addressing your internship gap: It’s completely valid to frame your unpaid internship as valuable experience. Many candidates may have similar experiences, so emphasize what you’ve learned during that time and any transferable skills you gained. Highlight any relevant projects or responsibilities you undertook, and if possible, connect them back to skills that are relevant to the roles you’re applying for. Additionally, consider seeking short-term projects or volunteering opportunities in relevant sectors to fill the gap and show your proactive approach.
Managing expectations for your experience level: It’s true that expectations may be higher as a third-year student, but remember that your journey is unique. Prepare yourself by reviewing common interview questions, technical skills, and current market trends. Focus on your readiness to learn and contribute, showcasing your adaptability and commitment. Highlight your experiences during your year abroad and how they have shaped you as a candidate. You can present yourself as someone who brings a diverse perspective and a strong will to succeed.
Networking and personal branding: Invest time in networking. Reach out to alumni, attend industry events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Don’t hesitate to share your journey—your resilience can resonate with many. Furthermore, consider creating a personal project or blog related to your field of interest. It’s a great way to showcase your knowledge and passion.
Take Care of Yourself: Lastly, remember that mental health is important. Make sure you’re taking the time to care for yourself during this stressful period. Lean on your support network and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you need it.
You’ve already shown your motivation by deciding to extend your degree and apply for internships despite personal challenges. That resilience is a strength that will serve you well. Stay focused, keep pushing forward, and believe in yourself. You’ve got this!
Best of luck, and remember to reach out if you need more support!