Hey everyone! I’m finishing high school and looking at the International Bachelor Economics and Business Economics program at Erasmus University Rotterdam. I want to eventually work in Investment Banking or Private Equity, maybe in Europe first and then the US later on.
I’m trying to figure out what it’s actually like to get into these competitive finance roles from this specific program. Has anyone here gone through IBEB at Erasmus and tried to break into high finance?
I’m wondering about things like:
- How hard is it to get finance internships during the program?
- What do the big banks and PE firms actually look for when recruiting from Erasmus?
- Do your grades and activities matter as much as people say?
- Is networking realistic when you’re not at a target school in London?
- What should I be doing from day one to build up my profile?
- Does Erasmus have good student organizations or career support for finance-focused students?
Would really appreciate hearing from anyone who’s actually been through this journey, whether you made it into finance or ended up doing something else. Thanks!
As an IBEB graduate, I can share some insights from my experience. While the program provides a strong foundation, you face tougher competition from candidates at more renowned schools like LSE and Oxbridge. However, local banks such as ABN AMRO and ING actively recruit from Erasmus, and there’s recognition from international firms with Amsterdam offices. Aim for a GPA of 8.5 or higher to stay competitive. The Finance & Investments association hosts valuable networking events, and professors often have industry links. Get involved in case competitions and seek relevant internships early on to enhance your profile, as this practical experience is highly regarded in interviews.
As someone who made the jump from European finance education to US markets, I can tell you the IBEB program’s quantitative focus is actually perfect prep for technical interviews. European programs hit mathematical modeling way harder than Anglo-Saxon ones, which gives you a real edge during valuation exercises and financial modeling tests. Don’t sleep on Amsterdam’s fintech and PE scene - it’s growing fast and makes a great stepping stone. I’d target mid-market PE firms first since they value the analytical depth you get from European programs over just brand names. Your biggest differentiator will be explaining complex financial concepts clearly in English and showing you can adapt culturally. Connect with Erasmus alumni who are already at your target firms - they know what the program brings to the table and can vouch for you during recruiting.
Having recruited for multiple European banks, I can affirm that graduates from Erasmus’ IBEB program can indeed enter the finance sector. The proximity of Rotterdam to Amsterdam and London makes it advantageous for attending networking events and career fairs. Critical factors for success include demonstrating proficiency in numerical analysis and a solid grasp of market principles from the onset. It may be beneficial to pursue CFA Level 1 during your studies and to apply for as many summer internships as possible at major banks. European institutions are valued for their analytical rigor, which works in your favor. While the school’s reputation is important, your ability to engage in discussions about markets and showcase your technical skills during interviews will ultimately be decisive. Moreover, leverage LinkedIn to connect with alumni at target firms and consider opportunities at boutique investment banks or asset management firms to start your career.
You’re overthinking this! I did IBEB and got into a boutique PE shop in Amsterdam after graduation. Here’s what nobody mentions - Rotterdam’s got solid finance connections. Tons of professionals live there and commute to Amsterdam/London daily. Joining study groups with ambitious classmates changed everything for me. We pushed each other to apply everywhere. Skip the big name obsession at first - smaller firms teach you more and don’t care about target schools. Learn Dutch if you haven’t! Sounds basic but most international students ignore this and miss local networking chances. The career center’s mediocre, but they’ve got alumni contacts if you keep bugging them.
Your European degree will definitely open unexpected doors! US firms love the rigorous analytical training from programs like IBEB. Build those technical skills early and you’ll stand out.