ER Internship Advice

For an ER (Equity Research) internship, your focus on Python and SQL is a solid start, especially considering your background in Business Analytics and Computer Science. These technical skills are increasingly valuable in the finance sector, including ER, for data analysis and automation tasks. Here are some additional skills and areas you might consider focusing on, based on insights from the Wall Street Oasis discussions:

1. Financial Modeling and Valuation: Understanding how to build and interpret financial models is crucial in ER. This includes proficiency in Excel, being able to construct three-statement models, DCF models, and comparables analysis. The WSO Financial Modeling Resources can be a great place to start.

2. Industry Knowledge: Deep dive into specific industries you're interested in covering as an analyst. ER analysts often specialize in sectors, so having a strong grasp of industry trends, key players, and regulatory environments can set you apart.

3. Writing and Communication Skills: ER analysts spend a significant amount of time writing reports and communicating their findings and recommendations. Practice writing concise, impactful reports, and work on your presentation skills.

4. Bloomberg Terminal and FactSet: Familiarity with financial data platforms like Bloomberg and FactSet is highly beneficial. These platforms are widely used in ER for data gathering, financial analysis, and market monitoring.

5. Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding the regulatory environment of the industries you're interested in can provide valuable insights into your analyses. This includes knowing key regulations, upcoming legislative changes, and their potential impacts on the sectors.

Analysts in ER do engage in coding, primarily for data analysis, automating repetitive tasks, and sometimes for building proprietary models or tools. Python is particularly valued for its versatility in data analysis, financial modeling, and machine learning applications. SQL is essential for database management and complex data queries.

Building a project portfolio that showcases your ability to apply these skills in real-world scenarios can be a strong differentiator. Consider projects that involve financial data analysis, predictive modeling related to stock performance, or automation of financial reporting tasks.

Remember, networking is also key in landing an ER internship. Connect with professionals in the field, attend industry events, and consider reaching out to alumni from your program who are working in ER. Your technical skills combined with industry knowledge and networking efforts can significantly boost your chances of securing an ER internship.

Sources: Learn SQL, Python, R at current job or seek RE opportunity? Career Advice., How to be a good S&T Intern, I want to intern at BW or P72, Q&A: Former ER Associate now FAANG Engineer, Programming/Technical Skills for Finance: SQL and Python