Networking

Name a group if you can. Bankers can tell a copy-paste blast from a real message.

Subject: Quick question from a [University] student

Hi [Name],

I'm a [year] student at [University] interested in [group, e.g. TMT M&A]. I came across your profile and would really value 15 minutes to hear about your path into the group and any advice for someone applying this cycle.

Would you have any availability in the next couple of weeks?

Best,
[Your name]

Ask about something only they would know. It shows you read their profile.

Subject: Advice request, [University] student interested in consulting

Hi [Name],

I'm a [year] student exploring consulting and would love to hear about your experience at [Firm], especially what surprised you most moving from university into the role.

Would you be open to a short call?

Best,
[Your name]

Show you understand their strategy. Vague interest in 'investing' reads as lazy.

Subject: Learning about [Firm]'s approach

Hi [Name],

I'm a student very interested in private markets investing, and [Firm]'s focus on [sector/strategy] caught my attention. I'd love to hear how you approach [specific topic]. Would you have 15 minutes in the coming weeks?

Best,
[Your name]

Traders value brevity. Keep it tight and name a desk if you have a preference.

Subject: Quick question, [University] student interested in S&T

Hi [Name],

I'm a [year] student at [University] looking at Sales & Trading, and your route onto the [desk, e.g. macro rates] desk really interested me. Could I grab 15 minutes to hear how you found the first year?

Happy to work around your schedule.

Best,
[Your name]