“During the second semester of my junior year (from January to May 2017), I spent four months with BDA Partners Hong Kong as an investment banking intern analyst, where I started my journey in investment banking career and had a lot fun with many memorable first-time experiences, including my first client meeting, first live M&A deal, first BBQ with colleagues, etc. But more importantly, not only have I learned essential skills of using excel and drawing professional PowerPoint slides, but I also have gained knowledge of a typical sell-side M&A process, the role of financial advisor as well as different members on the deal team.

It was a rewarding and fruitful four-month journey. I was put on a live US$46m sell-side industrial advisory deal for a Hong Kong-based fastener maker on my second day, and assisted with the transaction all the way from kick-off to the second auction round of non-binding initial offer and the start of buyers’ due diligence. During the process, I drafted hundreds of slides to form marketing materials, including kick-off pack, teaser, fireside chat, information memorandum, and management presentations. I conducted potential buyer screening, comparable company and transaction analysis as well as market research. Helping manage the virtual data room is also a fresh and interesting experience to me.

Besides the project, I also assisted with other pitches, research and attended quite a few client meetings with managing directors to take notes, which is also one of my favorite parts in the internship.

I have been grateful for the great opportunity, which helps shape me as a dependable, perceptive and detail-oriented professional and gives me a wonderful culture experience.”