In this episode of In Flight, Dylan sits down with Drew Barksdale to demystify one of the most competitive career paths out of Boston College: investment banking. Together, they break down what investment banking actually is, how the recruiting timeline works, and when students should start preparing. They also discuss the critical role of networking, effective strategies from their recruiting memos, and how CSOM resources — especially Fulton 315 — can give students a leg up. If you're a first-year just curious or gearing up for the process, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you get ahead.
In this episode of In Flight, Dylan sits down with Drew Barksdale to demystify one of the most competitive career paths out of Boston College: investment banking. Together, they break down what investment banking actually is, how the recruiting timeline works, and when students should start preparing. They also discuss the critical role of networking, effective strategies from their recruiting memos, and how CSOM resources — especially Fulton 315 — can give students a leg up. If you're a first-year just curious or gearing up for the process, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you get ahead.
0:00 | Welcome to In Flight with Dylan Carollo '25!
0:17 | Introduction to Drew Barksdale, Assistant Dean for Student Success in BC's Carroll School of Management.
0:45 | What is investment banking (IB)?
4:12 | Drew discusses the academic aspect of IB recruiting.
5:31 | Why should you network in the investment banking recruitment process?
10:47 | When should you start networking?
12:33 | What are Drew's recommendations on what to ask on networking calls?
12:25 | What's the deal with 'buzz words'?
16:07 | Should you make the trip to NYC to do coffee chats?
17:27 | Where can you learn about which banks are coming to BC and when?
19:04 | Should you start studying technicals now?
20:11 | Are student organizations a good way to build your resume?
21:11 | Any courses or programs that CSOM offers for the investment banking process?
21:58 | How does Fulton 315 help with this process?
22:19 | Thank you for tuning into this episode of In Flight!