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How do I stay motivated in my finance job search while dealing with depression and constant rejection?
I'm graduating in a week with a business degree from a U.S. university. Before this, I built and exited my own startup, where I was deeply involved in finance, strategy, and operations. I came to the U.S. to gain global exposure and invested everything I had from my startup into this education even taking on loans to make it work.
Now, as I try to start my career in finance especially in analyst roles I’m facing constant rejection. It’s incredibly discouraging. I know I bring a unique background to the table, and I’ve worked hard to align my experience with what these roles require, but I'm still not getting offers.
The financial pressure from student loans and the emotional toll of not seeing results despite my efforts has led to depression. Some days it’s hard to stay positive or even keep applying.
To professionals or anyone who's been through this:
How did you push through this kind of situation? What helped you stay focused and mentally healthy while trying to break into a competitive field?
13 answers
Updated
Poorvi’s Answer
You might be seeing job offers as the only “win” right now — but redefine progress:
Every tailored application is a step forward.
Every rejection is a data point — not a verdict on your worth.
Every networking message sent, every skill improved, every follow-up — those are wins.
Talk to someone — a counselor, or support group. Most U.S. universities offer free counseling for recent grads, even after graduation.
Use routines to break the paralysis:
Apply to 3 jobs a day.
Spend 30 minutes outside.
Reach out to 1 new contact every weekday.
Small, repeatable habits = long-term survival.
Every tailored application is a step forward.
Every rejection is a data point — not a verdict on your worth.
Every networking message sent, every skill improved, every follow-up — those are wins.
Talk to someone — a counselor, or support group. Most U.S. universities offer free counseling for recent grads, even after graduation.
Use routines to break the paralysis:
Apply to 3 jobs a day.
Spend 30 minutes outside.
Reach out to 1 new contact every weekday.
Small, repeatable habits = long-term survival.
Updated
Carolina’s Answer
I’ve been through depression due to work, and what I’ve learned is that everything comes down to how we handle frustration and setbacks. In my experience, there are two key components: attitude and brain chemistry. And they feed into each other.
Start with your body—exercise regularly, eat healthy, take vitamins, and surround yourself with loved ones. Then nurture your mind. Dig deep into your belief that your efforts will pay off. It takes time, but just like a business, your path needs to grow roots before it can bloom.
Another thing that helped me find direction is The Canva approach—a business template that asks powerful questions about your goals, partnerships, resources, and value propositions. It helps you get crystal clear on where you’re heading and why, which can be incredibly motivating when things feel uncertain.
Also, I highly recommend Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People. It may be an old book, but its advice on handling professional relationships and client communication is timeless and still relevant today.
Most importantly, don’t let yourself fall freely into a downward spiral. Start by taking care of your body and mind—step by step. Build yourself up so you can face challenges with clarity and strength.
Stay strong, and best of luck.
Carolina
Start with your body—exercise regularly, eat healthy, take vitamins, and surround yourself with loved ones. Then nurture your mind. Dig deep into your belief that your efforts will pay off. It takes time, but just like a business, your path needs to grow roots before it can bloom.
Another thing that helped me find direction is The Canva approach—a business template that asks powerful questions about your goals, partnerships, resources, and value propositions. It helps you get crystal clear on where you’re heading and why, which can be incredibly motivating when things feel uncertain.
Also, I highly recommend Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People. It may be an old book, but its advice on handling professional relationships and client communication is timeless and still relevant today.
Most importantly, don’t let yourself fall freely into a downward spiral. Start by taking care of your body and mind—step by step. Build yourself up so you can face challenges with clarity and strength.
Stay strong, and best of luck.
Carolina
Updated
Julian J.’s Answer
Hi Yash,
I want you to know that I truly understand what you’re going through—I was in your exact situation after graduating college. It’s an incredibly difficult time, and your honesty and openness about how you’re feeling is something to be proud of. I remember feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders and, like you, watching my classmates start jobs at top companies while I was still at home trying to “figure it out.” You are not alone in this.
Here are some things that helped me through this period, both in my job search and in taking care of my mental health:
1. Lean on Your Network
• Sometimes, all it takes is one connection to get your resume noticed. Reach out to former professors, classmates, family friends, or alumni from your college.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for informational interviews or advice—even a short conversation can open unexpected doors.
• Keep nurturing your existing relationships while making new ones. Networking is a long-term investment.
2. Build a Daily Routine
• Start your day with intention: Wake up early and do something for yourself—exercise, journaling, reading, or meditation. This helps set a positive tone.
• Set daily goals: Write down what you want to accomplish each day, whether it’s applying to a certain number of jobs, reading industry news, or practicing interview questions.
• Stay engaged in your field: Follow industry trends, read relevant articles, and participate in online forums or webinars. This keeps your knowledge fresh and gives you talking points for interviews.
• Practice interviews: Use platforms like Pramp, Interviewing.io, or even mock interviews with friends. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel.
• Monitor job postings: Check sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and company career pages regularly. Set up alerts for roles you’re interested in.
3. Be Strategic in Your Search
• It’s tempting to apply to every job you see, but try to focus on roles that genuinely interest you and align with your skills.
• Research companies before applying—see if their values and culture resonate with you.
• Don’t feel pressured to accept the first offer if it doesn’t feel right. It’s okay to wait for an opportunity that excites you.
4. Take Care of Your Mental Well-Being
• This process can be emotionally draining. Make time for activities that recharge you—spending time with friends or family, pursuing hobbies, or simply getting outside.
• If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a counselor or joining a support group. You’re not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help.
5. Remember: This Is Temporary
• It’s hard to see it now, but this phase won’t last forever. Every step you take, even the small ones, is progress.
• Your worth isn’t defined by your job status. You have valuable skills and experiences, and the right opportunity will come along.
If you ever want to talk, vent, or need help with anything—from reviewing your resume to practicing interview questions—please reach out. I’m here for you.
You’ve got this, Yash
I want you to know that I truly understand what you’re going through—I was in your exact situation after graduating college. It’s an incredibly difficult time, and your honesty and openness about how you’re feeling is something to be proud of. I remember feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders and, like you, watching my classmates start jobs at top companies while I was still at home trying to “figure it out.” You are not alone in this.
Here are some things that helped me through this period, both in my job search and in taking care of my mental health:
1. Lean on Your Network
• Sometimes, all it takes is one connection to get your resume noticed. Reach out to former professors, classmates, family friends, or alumni from your college.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for informational interviews or advice—even a short conversation can open unexpected doors.
• Keep nurturing your existing relationships while making new ones. Networking is a long-term investment.
2. Build a Daily Routine
• Start your day with intention: Wake up early and do something for yourself—exercise, journaling, reading, or meditation. This helps set a positive tone.
• Set daily goals: Write down what you want to accomplish each day, whether it’s applying to a certain number of jobs, reading industry news, or practicing interview questions.
• Stay engaged in your field: Follow industry trends, read relevant articles, and participate in online forums or webinars. This keeps your knowledge fresh and gives you talking points for interviews.
• Practice interviews: Use platforms like Pramp, Interviewing.io, or even mock interviews with friends. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel.
• Monitor job postings: Check sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and company career pages regularly. Set up alerts for roles you’re interested in.
3. Be Strategic in Your Search
• It’s tempting to apply to every job you see, but try to focus on roles that genuinely interest you and align with your skills.
• Research companies before applying—see if their values and culture resonate with you.
• Don’t feel pressured to accept the first offer if it doesn’t feel right. It’s okay to wait for an opportunity that excites you.
4. Take Care of Your Mental Well-Being
• This process can be emotionally draining. Make time for activities that recharge you—spending time with friends or family, pursuing hobbies, or simply getting outside.
• If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a counselor or joining a support group. You’re not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help.
5. Remember: This Is Temporary
• It’s hard to see it now, but this phase won’t last forever. Every step you take, even the small ones, is progress.
• Your worth isn’t defined by your job status. You have valuable skills and experiences, and the right opportunity will come along.
If you ever want to talk, vent, or need help with anything—from reviewing your resume to practicing interview questions—please reach out. I’m here for you.
You’ve got this, Yash
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
To keep a positive mindset while looking for a job, it's helpful to set up a routine, celebrate little victories, and lean on your support network. Remember to take care of yourself, focus on what you can control, and keep in mind that companies are still hiring.
Lean on Your Support Network:
Reach out to friends, family, or support groups to share your journey and get encouragement. Don’t be shy to ask for help or advice.
Create a Routine:
Having a daily plan for your job search can make you feel more productive and in charge. Treat it like a job by setting specific times for applying to jobs, networking, and learning new skills.
Take Care of Yourself:
Make sure to look after your physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, and doing things you enjoy. Self-care helps manage stress and keeps you feeling positive.
Focus on What You Can Control:
Job searching can involve a lot of waiting. Instead of worrying about what you can't change, work on things you can do to boost your chances, like improving your resume, practicing for interviews, or expanding your network.
Remember Companies Are Still Hiring:
It can be easy to feel down, but remember that companies are always on the lookout for talented people. Keep focusing on your strengths and keep searching for opportunities.
Learn from Rejection:
Rejection is part of the journey, but it's important to learn from it and not let it get you down. Use feedback to improve and keep applying for jobs.
Set Realistic Goals:
Break your job search into small, doable goals to stay motivated. This helps you feel like you’re making progress and prevents feeling overwhelmed.
Stay Engaged:
Stay active in your career field, even if you're not working right now. Attend industry events, volunteer, or take online courses to keep up with the latest trends.
Lean on Your Support Network:
Reach out to friends, family, or support groups to share your journey and get encouragement. Don’t be shy to ask for help or advice.
Create a Routine:
Having a daily plan for your job search can make you feel more productive and in charge. Treat it like a job by setting specific times for applying to jobs, networking, and learning new skills.
Take Care of Yourself:
Make sure to look after your physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, and doing things you enjoy. Self-care helps manage stress and keeps you feeling positive.
Focus on What You Can Control:
Job searching can involve a lot of waiting. Instead of worrying about what you can't change, work on things you can do to boost your chances, like improving your resume, practicing for interviews, or expanding your network.
Remember Companies Are Still Hiring:
It can be easy to feel down, but remember that companies are always on the lookout for talented people. Keep focusing on your strengths and keep searching for opportunities.
Learn from Rejection:
Rejection is part of the journey, but it's important to learn from it and not let it get you down. Use feedback to improve and keep applying for jobs.
Set Realistic Goals:
Break your job search into small, doable goals to stay motivated. This helps you feel like you’re making progress and prevents feeling overwhelmed.
Stay Engaged:
Stay active in your career field, even if you're not working right now. Attend industry events, volunteer, or take online courses to keep up with the latest trends.
Lily Zhang, CPSM, MBA in Supply Chain_Souring Procurement_SRM
Assistant VP of Management Consulting for Fortune 500 Companies
1
Answer
Updated
Lily Zhang,’s Answer
Thank you for sharing your journey — it takes strength to speak openly about the challenges. Your background as a founder already sets you apart, and the decision to invest everything into your education speaks volumes about your drive and commitment.
Rejection is tough, especially when you’re doing everything right and still not seeing traction. But breaking into competitive fields like finance often takes persistence beyond the resume — it's about timing, connections, and resilience.
You're not alone. Your story is powerful — and it’s just getting started.
- Leverage your founder story more boldly. You’ve made decisions, owned outcomes, and handled risk, which is highly valuable in finance.
- Keep structure in your day, even if it’s just 1-2 applications daily, networking messages, or self-learning tasks. Small wins count.
- Don’t isolate. Talk to mentors, alumni, or people who've been there — you’d be surprised how many doors open through shared experience.
- Keep trying. The volume of hard work eventually leads to a quality breakthrough. Stay consistent and open to learning along the way.
- Focus on smaller firms, rotational programs, or contract roles to get your foot in the door. Many analysts start from unexpected entry points.
Rejection is tough, especially when you’re doing everything right and still not seeing traction. But breaking into competitive fields like finance often takes persistence beyond the resume — it's about timing, connections, and resilience.
You're not alone. Your story is powerful — and it’s just getting started.
Lily Zhang, recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Jose’s Answer
Hi Yash,
The key to overcoming sporadic bouts of depression lies precisely in staying active, just as you are doing. I remember the case of a close relative diagnosed with lymphoma cancer with a life expectancy of just a few months who continued getting up early, working, and enjoying himself as he had all his life, and pulled through.
There are small daily actions shared by renowned figures like Barack Obama, Dwayne Johnson, and Warren Buffett that can keep you active and motivated. Showering in the morning, exercising 45 minutes a day, or reading the newspaper can help improve your mood and help you spot unexpected opportunities.
In the meantime, don't get frustrated by your current situation. You haven't even graduated yet, and you've already launched your own startup, emigrated to a foreign country, and gone all in on your dream. Many (myself included) would like to be able to boast about having made decisions like this. Negative thoughts often invade us when things don't go the way we'd like, but what about all our previous successes?
I've never gone into debt because I haven't had the courage, but if I were you and had invested all my resources into achieving my dream, I think I'd be very proud of myself, so don't let rejections dampen your motivation.
Cheer up, and I hope I've helped!
The key to overcoming sporadic bouts of depression lies precisely in staying active, just as you are doing. I remember the case of a close relative diagnosed with lymphoma cancer with a life expectancy of just a few months who continued getting up early, working, and enjoying himself as he had all his life, and pulled through.
There are small daily actions shared by renowned figures like Barack Obama, Dwayne Johnson, and Warren Buffett that can keep you active and motivated. Showering in the morning, exercising 45 minutes a day, or reading the newspaper can help improve your mood and help you spot unexpected opportunities.
In the meantime, don't get frustrated by your current situation. You haven't even graduated yet, and you've already launched your own startup, emigrated to a foreign country, and gone all in on your dream. Many (myself included) would like to be able to boast about having made decisions like this. Negative thoughts often invade us when things don't go the way we'd like, but what about all our previous successes?
I've never gone into debt because I haven't had the courage, but if I were you and had invested all my resources into achieving my dream, I think I'd be very proud of myself, so don't let rejections dampen your motivation.
Cheer up, and I hope I've helped!
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
150
Answers
Updated
Charlotte’s Answer
Hi,
I know how tough this feels right now, and I just want to acknowledge your resilience in pushing through despite the challenges. It’s incredibly frustrating to face constant rejection after investing so much in your education and moving to a new country, especially when you know you bring valuable experience to the table. It’s completely normal to feel stuck and uncertain when things aren’t going as planned. The financial pressure from loans and the weight of your expectations can make staying motivated seem almost impossible. But here’s the thing: your entrepreneurial background is unique and powerful, even if recruiters aren’t immediately seeing it. Take a moment to recognize your own strength—you built and exited a startup, which shows drive, creativity, and determination. Those qualities are rare and valuable, especially in finance. It’s okay to feel discouraged, but don’t lose sight of what you’ve accomplished and what you’re capable of. Use this time to reframe your experience, build connections, and keep putting yourself out there. You’ve overcome challenges before, and while this phase is tough, it’s just one part of your journey. Keep going—you’re more resilient than you think, and opportunities are still out there waiting for you.
I know how tough this feels right now, and I just want to acknowledge your resilience in pushing through despite the challenges. It’s incredibly frustrating to face constant rejection after investing so much in your education and moving to a new country, especially when you know you bring valuable experience to the table. It’s completely normal to feel stuck and uncertain when things aren’t going as planned. The financial pressure from loans and the weight of your expectations can make staying motivated seem almost impossible. But here’s the thing: your entrepreneurial background is unique and powerful, even if recruiters aren’t immediately seeing it. Take a moment to recognize your own strength—you built and exited a startup, which shows drive, creativity, and determination. Those qualities are rare and valuable, especially in finance. It’s okay to feel discouraged, but don’t lose sight of what you’ve accomplished and what you’re capable of. Use this time to reframe your experience, build connections, and keep putting yourself out there. You’ve overcome challenges before, and while this phase is tough, it’s just one part of your journey. Keep going—you’re more resilient than you think, and opportunities are still out there waiting for you.
Updated
Shruti’s Answer
Try using free meditation apps such as Headspace to access ways to cope up with stress and keep going with job search. To help your financial situation, try applying for other roles where you can use your finance skills. So, broaden your job search scope to get a job first and help with financial stress you are going through and once that is under control, look at Finance roles. Build connections on LinkedIn, reach out to recruitment agencies and HR, you may never know you may find something better than what you are trying for now. All the best!
Updated
Kyle’s Answer
Hi Yash,
Always keep a positive mindset. Everyone's advice above is great, but I'd like to add one of my favorite reminders. Think of the Stonecutter's Credo: when things seem tough, imagine a stonecutter hitting a rock over and over, maybe a hundred times without seeing a crack. Yet on the 101st hit, it splits in two. It's not just that final hit that made it happen, but all the effort before it.
So, keep pushing forward. When you finally reach your goal, you'll know it was all your hard work that got you there.
Take care,
Kyle
Always keep a positive mindset. Everyone's advice above is great, but I'd like to add one of my favorite reminders. Think of the Stonecutter's Credo: when things seem tough, imagine a stonecutter hitting a rock over and over, maybe a hundred times without seeing a crack. Yet on the 101st hit, it splits in two. It's not just that final hit that made it happen, but all the effort before it.
So, keep pushing forward. When you finally reach your goal, you'll know it was all your hard work that got you there.
Take care,
Kyle
Updated
Staci’s Answer
Remember that right now you are competing against everyone that is graduating. There is no shame looking at jobs that are a little lower in the career pile; like booking keeping or general accounting. Employers like to see growth on a resume and you are more employable when employed.
Updated
Rick’s Answer
Yash,
Let me share something I learned back in my college Logic class that’s proven incredibly useful: you're experiencing what the Russian philosopher Gurdjieff called the Law of Three. You've initiated the First Force, hit resistance from the Second Force, and now it’s time to activate the Third Force.
So, what exactly is this about?
According to Gurdjieff, everything in the universe, every event, creation, or transformation, arises from the interaction of three fundamental forces. Without all three, nothing new can be achieved. Here’s a quick breakdown from a website on Gurdjieff I found.
The Three Forces of the Law of Three:
First Force – Active (Affirming)
The initiating, creative, or driving force.
It acts.
In human terms, it's will, desire, or intention.
Second Force, Passive (Denying)
The opposing or resisting force.
It reacts.
Not evil, just the natural resistance required to create anything real.
Third Force, Reconciling (Neutralizing)
The harmonizing or mediating force.
It enables resolution.
Without this, the first two forces simply cancel each other out.
This principle is everywhere. Let me share with you two of my favorite examples:
Steve Jobs faced enormous resistance in his early business life, even being fired from his own company Apple. But he didn’t quit. He engaged Third Force, vision, resilience, creativity, and returned to build Apple into a trillion-dollar company with billions of iPhones in use around the world.
Jeff Bezos launched Amazon as an online bookstore in the 1990s. He met countless obstacles early on, but through sheer persistence and clarity of purpose, Third Force, he turned it into one of the most powerful and prosperous companies on Earth.
There are excellent full biographies of both men on YouTube. Watch them and you’ll see Third Force in action.
So, Yash, no one is against you. Through these obstacles you're facing life is challenging you, inviting you, to grow. Once you recognize and apply Third Force, you unlock the key to overcoming any obstacle. The universe doesn’t evolve by favoring the weak; it grows through challenge, response, and transformation. That’s the essence of the Law of Three.
Wishing you strength and clarity,
Rick
Let me share something I learned back in my college Logic class that’s proven incredibly useful: you're experiencing what the Russian philosopher Gurdjieff called the Law of Three. You've initiated the First Force, hit resistance from the Second Force, and now it’s time to activate the Third Force.
So, what exactly is this about?
According to Gurdjieff, everything in the universe, every event, creation, or transformation, arises from the interaction of three fundamental forces. Without all three, nothing new can be achieved. Here’s a quick breakdown from a website on Gurdjieff I found.
The Three Forces of the Law of Three:
First Force – Active (Affirming)
The initiating, creative, or driving force.
It acts.
In human terms, it's will, desire, or intention.
Second Force, Passive (Denying)
The opposing or resisting force.
It reacts.
Not evil, just the natural resistance required to create anything real.
Third Force, Reconciling (Neutralizing)
The harmonizing or mediating force.
It enables resolution.
Without this, the first two forces simply cancel each other out.
This principle is everywhere. Let me share with you two of my favorite examples:
Steve Jobs faced enormous resistance in his early business life, even being fired from his own company Apple. But he didn’t quit. He engaged Third Force, vision, resilience, creativity, and returned to build Apple into a trillion-dollar company with billions of iPhones in use around the world.
Jeff Bezos launched Amazon as an online bookstore in the 1990s. He met countless obstacles early on, but through sheer persistence and clarity of purpose, Third Force, he turned it into one of the most powerful and prosperous companies on Earth.
There are excellent full biographies of both men on YouTube. Watch them and you’ll see Third Force in action.
So, Yash, no one is against you. Through these obstacles you're facing life is challenging you, inviting you, to grow. Once you recognize and apply Third Force, you unlock the key to overcoming any obstacle. The universe doesn’t evolve by favoring the weak; it grows through challenge, response, and transformation. That’s the essence of the Law of Three.
Wishing you strength and clarity,
Rick
Updated
Eddy’s Answer
You're definitely not alone in this — many people, especially recent grads, are facing similar challenges. The job market over the past few years has been unusually tough, even for those with strong backgrounds like yours. The rejections you’re getting are not a reflection of your value or your potential — they’re often more about macroeconomic dynamics, hiring freezes, or internal company priorities that are completely out of your control. It’s important not to take them personally, even though I know that’s easier said than done.
You’ve already achieved something incredible by building and exiting your own startup, and by pushing yourself to pursue a global education despite financial risks. That takes courage, grit, and real belief in yourself — and those are qualities that do matter in the long run, especially in finance and business.
When I (and many others) have gone through similar periods of rejection and burnout, a few things have helped:
1. Daily Structure & Small Wins
Depression can steal motivation, so creating a small, consistent routine helps — like applying to 2-3 roles a day, reaching out to one person on LinkedIn, or even just updating your resume. Celebrate the small wins. It keeps the momentum going.
2. Lean on Your Network
Reaching out to alumni, former professors, startup contacts, or people in the roles you want can help open doors that traditional applications won’t. Many people genuinely want to help — especially when they see someone who’s hustled like you have.
3. Remind Yourself Why You Started
Reconnect with your “why.” You came to the U.S. with a clear purpose: to grow, to build a meaningful career, to make your investment count. That purpose is still intact — this part is just one chapter of the journey.
4. Protect Your Mental Health
Therapy, support groups, journaling, or even just talking to people who understand — these can all make a difference. You’re not weak for feeling this way; you’re human, and you’re dealing with something extremely difficult.
5. Consider Alternative Angles
While continuing your search, also think about finance-adjacent roles or sectors (like strategy consulting, corporate development, or operations at growth-stage startups) where your entrepreneurial background can shine. These can be powerful stepping stones into your ideal finance role later.
Please don’t let the current moment define your future. Keep showing up. Keep believing in the value you bring. Sometimes the right opportunity just takes a little longer to show up — but when it does, everything you’re enduring now will have been part of what made you resilient enough to take it on.
You’re not alone in this. You're already doing more than most. Keep going — the right door will open.
You’ve already achieved something incredible by building and exiting your own startup, and by pushing yourself to pursue a global education despite financial risks. That takes courage, grit, and real belief in yourself — and those are qualities that do matter in the long run, especially in finance and business.
When I (and many others) have gone through similar periods of rejection and burnout, a few things have helped:
1. Daily Structure & Small Wins
Depression can steal motivation, so creating a small, consistent routine helps — like applying to 2-3 roles a day, reaching out to one person on LinkedIn, or even just updating your resume. Celebrate the small wins. It keeps the momentum going.
2. Lean on Your Network
Reaching out to alumni, former professors, startup contacts, or people in the roles you want can help open doors that traditional applications won’t. Many people genuinely want to help — especially when they see someone who’s hustled like you have.
3. Remind Yourself Why You Started
Reconnect with your “why.” You came to the U.S. with a clear purpose: to grow, to build a meaningful career, to make your investment count. That purpose is still intact — this part is just one chapter of the journey.
4. Protect Your Mental Health
Therapy, support groups, journaling, or even just talking to people who understand — these can all make a difference. You’re not weak for feeling this way; you’re human, and you’re dealing with something extremely difficult.
5. Consider Alternative Angles
While continuing your search, also think about finance-adjacent roles or sectors (like strategy consulting, corporate development, or operations at growth-stage startups) where your entrepreneurial background can shine. These can be powerful stepping stones into your ideal finance role later.
Please don’t let the current moment define your future. Keep showing up. Keep believing in the value you bring. Sometimes the right opportunity just takes a little longer to show up — but when it does, everything you’re enduring now will have been part of what made you resilient enough to take it on.
You’re not alone in this. You're already doing more than most. Keep going — the right door will open.
Updated
Peter’s Answer
Hi Yash,
First of all, I am so sorry for what you have been through. I completely understand how hard it is to navigate recruiting in finance, maintain a good GPA, and deal with financial burdens, especially when you are from another country. I have been in your shoes before. I come from an international background, was a first-gen college student, and received multiple rejections (over 300, if not 400). I know how stressful and exhausting it is to be in this position. It is easy to panic every time you receive an email notification, fearing it is another rejection. But hear me out, you are not alone.
The best advice I can give you is to keep going and not worry about how many rejection emails or unsuccessful interviews you have to go through. Prioritize your mental health, take a break if you need to, and reach out for help if you want support. I am not saying you will land an offer soon, but I am sure you will eventually get something. After each interview, reflect on what you did, keep doing the good things, and try to avoid repeating the things that did not go well next time. Make sure to sharpen your technical skills, review your prep materials thoroughly, and have your answers ready for behavioral questions as well. Most importantly, be yourself. I know it is hard, if not impossible, not to be stressed, but do your best to manage the stress, and try not to be overwhelmed by unsuccessful applications. Sometimes a long walk, a 10-hour nap, a great dinner with friends, or even a fun party can help. But please, please prioritize your mental and physical health above everything else.
Even if you do not end up landing a job offer in finance, I want you to know that it is totally okay. I really wanted to work in finance too, but I was not able to land a finance job during college either. Please trust me, this is not the end of the world. Even though it is challenging, especially given the current market conditions, you can always pivot your career and find a way back to finance, or you might even end up liking the job you land and not want to return to finance at all.
Tl;dr: Trust me, everything will work out. Please prioritize your physical and mental health. Take breaks when you need them. Seek help if you need it. Best of luck with everything going forward, and feel free to reach out to me if you ever need someone to talk to.
Best of luck,
Peter
First of all, I am so sorry for what you have been through. I completely understand how hard it is to navigate recruiting in finance, maintain a good GPA, and deal with financial burdens, especially when you are from another country. I have been in your shoes before. I come from an international background, was a first-gen college student, and received multiple rejections (over 300, if not 400). I know how stressful and exhausting it is to be in this position. It is easy to panic every time you receive an email notification, fearing it is another rejection. But hear me out, you are not alone.
The best advice I can give you is to keep going and not worry about how many rejection emails or unsuccessful interviews you have to go through. Prioritize your mental health, take a break if you need to, and reach out for help if you want support. I am not saying you will land an offer soon, but I am sure you will eventually get something. After each interview, reflect on what you did, keep doing the good things, and try to avoid repeating the things that did not go well next time. Make sure to sharpen your technical skills, review your prep materials thoroughly, and have your answers ready for behavioral questions as well. Most importantly, be yourself. I know it is hard, if not impossible, not to be stressed, but do your best to manage the stress, and try not to be overwhelmed by unsuccessful applications. Sometimes a long walk, a 10-hour nap, a great dinner with friends, or even a fun party can help. But please, please prioritize your mental and physical health above everything else.
Even if you do not end up landing a job offer in finance, I want you to know that it is totally okay. I really wanted to work in finance too, but I was not able to land a finance job during college either. Please trust me, this is not the end of the world. Even though it is challenging, especially given the current market conditions, you can always pivot your career and find a way back to finance, or you might even end up liking the job you land and not want to return to finance at all.
Tl;dr: Trust me, everything will work out. Please prioritize your physical and mental health. Take breaks when you need them. Seek help if you need it. Best of luck with everything going forward, and feel free to reach out to me if you ever need someone to talk to.
Best of luck,
Peter
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