157. From Intern to Offer: The Unwritten Rules of Wall Street Success (Plus Some Markets and Tariff Talk)

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This week we start off talking about what's happening in the markets: the latest GDP print—and why the headline number being down isn’t quite as simple as it sounds. We unpack the mechanics behind the contraction, including how tariff-fueled inventory surges and net import dynamics played a role. We also dive into real-time supply chain stress, from container ships skipping ports to what that means for everything from baby gear to air conditioning parts. If you're confused by the mixed signals from the market (like why stocks are back at pre-tariff levels despite growing economic headwinds), you’re not alone—and we break down what might really be going on under the hood.

From there, we tackle one of our most-requested topics: how to turn your summer internship into a full-time offer. Whether you're about to hit the desk in sales & trading, investment banking, or even private equity, we share the practical advice no one gives you—like why social skills matter just as much as technical chops, how to navigate rotational programs, and why getting coffee (yes, really) can actually be strategic. We also discuss how the internship landscape has changed over the past decade and what you need to know about recruiting timelines, return offers, and what happens if you don’t get one.

Finally, we zoom out to discuss the broader trends shaping Wall Street careers right now: the shifting prestige of private equity, the evolving exit opportunities for sales & trading analysts, and why the “best” path isn’t always the right one. If you’re a student, early-career finance professional, or just trying to understand how to play the long game in today’s market, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. Oh—and happy May. Let’s dive in.

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