Transitioning from the military to investment banking?

I've heard of service members moving into investment banking after their military careers. How do people make this transition, and what skills from the military help in finance roles? Is this a realistic path for someone considering the military?

Transitioning from the military to the field of investment banking is certainly possible, and many service members have successfully done so. Here's a basic roadmap of the process:

1. Identify transferable skills: Although military service and investment banking might seem unrelated at first, many skills acquired in the military prove valuable in finance. These include teamwork, leadership, decision-making under pressure, analytical thinking, and discipline. These skills are highly transferable and valuable in the rigorous and demanding world of investment banking.

2. Obtain necessary education: Most investment banks prefer candidates with a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as finance, economics, or business administration. If you don't already have a degree, consider utilizing the military's education programs, like the GI Bill, to further your education. Furthermore, an MBA or a related Master's degree can prove advantageous.

3. Internships and Networking: Internships provide hands-on experience and can be an excellent foot in the door. Networking with professionals who transitioned from military service to finance can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and possibly job opportunities.

4. Leverage Veterans' Programs: Many banking and financial institutions offer programs specifically designed to help veterans transition into fields like investment banking. These include JP Morgan’s Military Veteran Internship Program, Goldman Sachs' Veterans Integration Program among others.

In short, transitioning from the military to investment banking is indeed a feasible path, but it requires planning, education, and persistence. Be sure to leverage your transferable skills from the military, such as problem-solving, leadership, adaptability, discipline, and the ability to thrive in high-stress situations. These skills, coupled with a good education and relevant internships, will be significantly beneficial in this transition.