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Introduction:
One of the most common yet crucial questions in an investment banking interview is: “Tell me something about yourself.” While it seems simple, your response sets the tone for the entire interview. A well-structured answer should highlight your background, relevant experience, technical skills, and motivation for investment banking, all within 60–90 seconds.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best way to craft your answer, along with 20 real-life sample responses inspired by top investment banks like Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, and more. Whether you're a fresh graduate, an experienced analyst, or transitioning from another industry, these answers will help you make a strong first impression.
Here’s a simple formula to structure your response:
Introduction – Who you are and your current position.
Background – Education and relevant experiences.
Key Skills & Achievements – What makes you a great fit.
Why Investment Banking? – Your motivation for this career path.
Why This Firm? – A touch of personalization if possible.
Below are 20 sample answers tailored to different backgrounds, featuring real investment banks.
1. Undergraduate Student (Finance Major) – Applying for a Summer Analyst Role
"I’m currently a senior at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, majoring in Finance and Economics. I’ve always been passionate about financial markets, which led me to intern at Goldman Sachs last summer in their Investment Banking Division. During my internship, I worked on an M&A deal in the tech sector, where I assisted with financial modeling and valuation. I enjoyed the fast-paced, analytical environment and the ability to make an impact on real transactions. I'm excited about the opportunity at JPMorgan because of its strong reputation in M&A advisory and its culture of mentorship."
2. Recent MBA Graduate – Career Switcher from Consulting to Investment Banking
"I recently completed my MBA at Columbia Business School, focusing on corporate finance and strategy. Prior to my MBA, I spent four years at McKinsey & Company, advising financial institutions on market entry and M&A strategy. During my MBA, I interned at Morgan Stanley’s Investment Banking Division, where I worked on a debt financing deal for a Fortune 500 company. That experience reinforced my interest in banking, as I thrive in high-pressure environments and enjoy working on complex financial transactions. I’m particularly excited about Evercore due to its strong advisory focus and deal flow in the financial services sector."
3. Experienced Investment Banking Analyst – Lateral Move to Another Firm
"I’m currently an Investment Banking Analyst at Bank of America in the Healthcare group, where I’ve spent the last two years advising clients on M&A and capital-raising transactions. One of my most rewarding experiences was working on a $1.2 billion acquisition of a biotech firm, where I built financial models and conducted due diligence. I’m looking to transition to Citi because of its strong presence in healthcare investment banking and the opportunity to work on larger, cross-border deals."
4. Private Equity Professional – Moving Back to Investment Banking
"I started my career as an Investment Banking Analyst at Lazard, focusing on M&A advisory in the industrials sector. After two years, I transitioned into private equity at Blackstone, where I evaluated investment opportunities and managed portfolio companies. While I enjoyed the investing side, I realized that I miss the transactional intensity and broader exposure to different industries that investment banking offers. That’s why I’m excited about this opportunity at Credit Suisse, particularly in its restructuring group, which aligns with my deal experience."
5. Corporate Finance Professional – Transitioning to Investment Banking
"I’m currently working in the Corporate Finance division at General Electric, where I’ve spent the past three years managing financial planning and capital allocation for a $2 billion business unit. While I’ve gained valuable experience in financial analysis and strategic decision-making, I’m looking to transition into investment banking at Barclays because I want to work on a wider range of transactions and gain deeper exposure to deal execution. Given Barclays’ strong presence in industrials investment banking, I believe my corporate finance background will allow me to add immediate value to the team."
6. Equity Research Analyst – Moving to Investment Banking
"I currently work as an Equity Research Associate at Deutsche Bank, covering technology stocks. In this role, I’ve developed deep expertise in financial modeling, valuation, and industry analysis. One of my key contributions was identifying an undervalued software company, which led to a successful investment thesis for institutional clients. While I enjoy research, I want to move into investment banking at UBS to gain more direct involvement in transactions and client advisory. UBS’s strong track record in technology M&A makes it a great fit for my skill set and interests."
7. Sales & Trading Professional – Transitioning to Investment Banking
"I started my career in Sales & Trading at Nomura, where I focused on fixed-income products. Over the past three years, I’ve gained deep knowledge of capital markets, risk management, and client relationships. However, I’ve realized that I’m more drawn to the strategic and long-term advisory side of finance, which is why I’m looking to transition into investment banking. I’m particularly excited about RBC Capital Markets because of its strong execution capabilities in debt and equity underwriting, where I can leverage my markets expertise."
8. Law Professional – Moving into Investment Banking
"I began my career as a corporate attorney at Skadden, specializing in M&A transactions and securities law. Over the past five years, I’ve advised clients on multi-billion-dollar acquisitions and IPOs, working closely with investment bankers. While I enjoy the legal aspects, I’m more interested in the strategic and financial side of deals, which is why I’m making the transition into investment banking. Moelis & Company’s strong focus on complex M&A advisory aligns perfectly with my experience and career goals."
9. Data Analyst – Transitioning into Investment Banking
"I currently work as a Data Analyst at BlackRock, where I use data analytics to support portfolio management decisions. Over the past three years, I’ve developed strong quantitative skills and financial modeling experience, particularly in risk analysis. My exposure to investment strategies and my passion for corporate finance have driven my interest in transitioning into investment banking. I’m particularly drawn to Jefferies because of its entrepreneurial culture and strong track record in mid-market M&A."
10. Entrepreneur – Moving into Investment Banking
"I co-founded a fintech startup that provided AI-driven investment strategies for retail investors. Over four years, I led fundraising efforts, securing $5 million in venture capital, and successfully scaled the business before it was acquired. While I enjoyed building a company, I realized that my true passion lies in financial advisory and deal-making, which is why I’m transitioning into investment banking. I’m particularly interested in joining Goldman Sachs, given its leadership in fintech M&A and its history of advising high-growth technology companies."
11. Goldman Sachs-Inspired
"Sure! I graduated from NYU with a degree in finance and have spent the last three years at Goldman Sachs in the M&A division. During my time there, I played a key role in executing a $2 billion merger for a technology client, which strengthened my financial modeling skills and ability to work under tight deadlines. I thrive in high-pressure environments and love working on complex transactions. I’m excited about this opportunity because of the firm’s strong deal flow and the chance to continue developing my expertise in investment banking."
12. JPMorgan Chase-Inspired
"Hi! Over the past four years, I’ve been part of JPMorgan’s capital markets team, focusing on debt financing. One of my most rewarding experiences was working on a $500 million bond issuance for a renewable energy firm, where I collaborated with clients to structure a competitive offering. I have a strong analytical mindset and enjoy the strategic aspects of corporate finance. I’m eager to leverage my experience in a broader investment banking role, and I’m particularly drawn to this opportunity because of the firm’s leadership in capital markets advisory."
13. Morgan Stanley-Inspired
"Hey there! I’ve spent the last two years as an Equity Research Analyst at Morgan Stanley, covering the healthcare sector. My role involved building detailed financial models and providing buy/sell recommendations, and I’m proud to say one of my early calls led to a 20% stock uptick. While I enjoy deep industry analysis, I’m looking to transition into investment banking for more hands-on deal experience. I thrive in fast-paced environments and am excited about the opportunity to apply my valuation expertise in a transaction-driven setting."
14. Bank of America-Inspired
"Happy to share! I’ve spent the last three years at Bank of America in the leveraged finance group, where I helped structure a $1.2 billion loan syndication for a retail chain’s expansion. This experience honed my ability to manage multiple stakeholders, analyze complex credit structures, and work under tight deadlines. I thrive in high-stakes environments and enjoy the problem-solving aspect of deal-making. I’m excited about this opportunity because of the firm’s strong reputation in structured finance and capital markets."
15. Citi-Inspired
"Hi! I recently earned my MBA from Wharton and previously worked at Citi in their investment banking division. One of my most exciting experiences was supporting a cross-border $3 billion acquisition in the consumer goods sector, where I worked closely with senior bankers on valuation and due diligence. That deal reinforced my passion for investment banking. I love the challenge of structuring complex transactions and working with clients to achieve strategic goals. I’m particularly interested in this opportunity because of the firm’s strong global presence and dynamic deal environment."
16. Barclays-Inspired
"Sure thing! I’ve been with Barclays for the past two years in the Industrials M&A group, advising on strategic transactions. One of my most rewarding projects was helping a manufacturing client navigate a $900 million sale, which required in-depth financial modeling and negotiations. The experience taught me the importance of precision and building long-term client trust. I’m looking to deepen my exposure to M&A and capital markets, and I’m particularly drawn to this opportunity because of the firm’s strong track record in advisory services."
17. Wells Fargo-Inspired
"Hey! I’ve spent the last few years at Wells Fargo in corporate banking, where I managed credit portfolios for mid-market clients. A key highlight was restructuring a $300 million credit facility for a logistics firm, which required balancing risk assessment with client needs. While I’ve gained strong experience in credit and relationship management, I’m eager to transition into investment banking to work on more complex, high-impact deals. I’m excited about this opportunity because of the firm’s strong advisory platform and growth in M&A."
18. UBS-Inspired
"Hi there! I started my career in wealth management at UBS, advising high-net-worth clients before transitioning into the investment banking analyst program. Most recently, I worked on a $1.5 billion IPO for a fintech startup, helping prepare valuation analyses and roadshow materials. Seeing a deal go from inception to market launch was an incredible experience, and it reinforced my passion for capital markets. I’m detail-oriented, analytical, and eager to continue growing in investment banking, particularly at a firm with a strong global presence."
19. Deutsche Bank-Inspired
"Sure! I’ve spent the last four years at Deutsche Bank in the restructuring group, where I’ve advised distressed companies on financial turnarounds. One of my most challenging but rewarding projects was leading a $700 million debt restructuring for an energy firm, which involved complex negotiations with creditors. This experience taught me resilience and the ability to think creatively under pressure. I’m excited about this opportunity because of the firm’s strong restructuring and M&A advisory practice, where I can continue to develop my expertise in special situations."
20. Credit Suisse-Inspired (Pre-UBS Merger)
"Hi! I spent three years at Credit Suisse in the Technology, Media, and Telecom (TMT) group, advising on strategic M&A and capital markets transactions. One of my most exciting deals was a $2 billion acquisition for a streaming platform, where I led valuation analysis and synergy modeling. I love breaking down complex financial problems and working in dynamic industries. Given the firm’s strong deal flow in the tech sector, I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute my experience and continue developing as a banker."
Final Tips for Your Answer:
Keep It Concise (60–90 Seconds):– Avoid rambling. Structure your answer with a clear introduction, experience, key achievements, and motivation for the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience:– Focus on finance-related roles, internships, or transferable skills that align with investment banking.
Quantify Your Impact:– Use numbers to showcase your achievements (e.g., “Worked on a $2 billion merger,” “Led valuation analysis for a $500 million IPO”).
Tailor It to the Firm:– Research the bank’s culture, deal flow, and strengths, and subtly align your answer with their focus.
Show Enthusiasm and Confidence:– Speak clearly and professionally, letting your passion for finance and deal-making come through.
Avoid Personal Details:– This is not a life story. Stick to professional background, skills, and career motivation.
Have a Strong Closing:– End with why you’re excited about the firm and the opportunity to contribute.
Practice Until It Sounds Natural:– Rehearse, but don’t memorize. Your delivery should feel smooth and confident, not robotic.
By following these tips, you will make a strong first impression and set the stage for a successful interview.
Conclusion:
Your “Tell me something about yourself” answer is your first and best chance to make a lasting impression in an investment banking interview. Keep it concise, structured, and tailored to the role. Highlight your relevant skills, past experiences, and motivation for joining the firm. Most importantly, practice your response so it sounds natural and confident.
Looking to refine your interview skills further? Check out our other investment banking interview guides on technical questions, deal experience discussions, and behavioral answers.