Favorite Parts of Being a M&A Investment Banking Associate at Houlihan Lokey
David, a Houlihan Lokey M&A Investment Banking Associate, finds the accelerated learning most rewarding, stating "one year of banking will teach you more than most people learn...three or four years in, in normal company." This accelerated learning, coupled with significant early responsibility, builds confidence and provides valuable skills applicable throughout a career.
Accelerated Learning, Leadership Development, Responsibility, High-Stress Situations, Confidence Building
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
David Crosson
M&A Investment Banking Associate
Houlihan Lokey
Yale University
MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University
Economics
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Accelerated learning pace: Gain more knowledge in one year than in three or four years in other roles.
2. Exposure to various industries and leadership styles: Learn about different business models and how people handle high-pressure situations.
3. Significant responsibility early in career: Handle real-world projects and build confidence for future challenges.
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your current role?
You're going to learn at an accelerated pace that I don't think you can find anywhere else. One year of banking will teach you more than most people learn in three or four years at a normal company.
When you're young, the best thing you can get is learning. I think it was incredibly valuable. That learning is both academic, you learn a lot about industries, but also personal.
You learn about leadership, see how various companies are run, and how different people address high-stress situations. I consider it to be incredibly valuable.
Moreover, there are very few jobs where someone so young, a fresh college graduate, is given so much responsibility. It can be scary at times, but it means the work you do feels real and gives you a strong sense of confidence in the future.
Years later, after leaving, I still frequently reference things I did. It gives me a strong sense of self, knowing if I could do that, I can face the challenges I have now.