Brandeis International Business School

Internships are the ultimate resume builder.

As a business school student, acquiring on-the-job skills in your area of study is extremely valuable. But just as important is the opportunity to build your personal network and develop a lasting impression with hiring managers.

Sometimes the first step to building a successful career is getting your foot in the door as an intern.

Here’s how I converted a pair of internships at Morgan Stanley into a full-time job offer.

Mentorship makes a difference

I secured my first internship at Morgan Stanley as an undergraduate student at Brandeis University.

Participating in the firm’s Wealth Management Pathways program allowed me to collaborate closely with financial advisors, which was a valuable hands-on experience. The program also helped me prepare for and ultimately pass the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam, an experience that solidified my interest in the finance industry.

Although my three-month internship flew by, I was able to develop a lasting mentorship with one of my managers. Building my professional network provided me with a comprehensive view of the business, allowing me to learn directly from industry experts.

One of the most valuable takeaways from my first internship was recognizing the power of meaningful connections. Beyond opening doors to new opportunities, these relationships deepened my understanding of the finance industry as a whole.

Mastering essential career skills

After my first internship, I completed my bachelor’s degree at Brandeis and continued my coursework in the Master of Arts in International Economics and Finance (MA) program at Brandeis International Business School.

One of the major benefits of the International Business Scholars program, which is open to any Brandeis undergraduate interested in earning a graduate business degree, is that I was able to begin taking master’s-level classes as an undergraduate.

At the International Business School, I developed real-world career skills that prepared me for my internship experience. I also worked alongside Career Coaches through my job at the Career Strategies and Engagement Center (CSE). They provided me with insightful career advice and helped me determine the career path I wanted to pursue.

The CSE is a great resource that I encourage all students to utilize. They provide many benefits, but it’s important to take initiative to tap into everything they have to offer.

A second internship — and a full-time job offer

I secured a second internship at Morgan Stanley the summer before my final semester at the International Business School.

I gained hands-on experience working with the Wealth Strategies group, which allowed me to fully immerse myself in the industry by learning and understanding financial products and the markets. My internship culminated with a pitch presentation to senior management that allowed me to showcase my presentation skills.

After my internship finished, I was able to secure a return offer as a Wealth Strategies group analyst at Morgan Stanley.

This full-time opportunity has allowed me to continue to develop both my technical and professional skills, collaborating with investment teams, portfolio managers and financial advisors around the country.

Student Insights features blog posts produced by current students and recent graduates of Brandeis International Business School. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here belong solely to the author.