Interns on Wall Street are striking it rich, and one trading firm, Jane Street Capital, is leading the way with its jaw-dropping internship salaries. Imagine earning $250,000 a
Interns on Wall Street are striking it rich, and one trading firm, Jane Street Capital, is leading the way with its jaw-dropping internship salaries. Imagine earning $250,000 a year—yes, you read that right—just for being an intern! Let’s dive into what this means for students and recent grads.
Jane Street is not just any trading firm; it’s booming! The company is on track for record-breaking revenue this year, which helps explain its generous pay for interns. But here’s the kicker: you don’t need prior finance experience to apply. Whether you’re a fresh-faced college student or someone looking to explore a new career path, Jane Street wants you!
Gone are the days when internships were synonymous with unpaid grunt work. Thanks to growing scrutiny about how unpaid positions often favor the privileged, companies are stepping up to attract top talent. Other firms are also offering competitive salaries; for instance, Glassdoor’s list of the best internships in 2024 shows median salaries ranging from $7,000 to $10,333.
With rising costs of living and student debt, many Gen Zers are on the hunt for well-paying jobs. A recent survey revealed that 62% of Gen Z would even accept a lower salary for a better work-life balance. Companies like Jane Street are recognizing this shift, focusing on attracting “smart, ambitious people” who enjoy solving complex problems, regardless of their background.
Despite the lucrative offers, getting these internships is no walk in the park. A survey found that 57% of students from the class of 2025 feel pessimistic about starting their careers. The job market is tough, and many entry-level positions now require prior experience, which makes it difficult for newcomers.
With so much competition, some aspiring interns are finding innovative ways to stand out. For example, Basant Shenouda secured her internship by attending conferences and handing out her résumé directly to recruiters. Ayala Ossowski got creative by pitching herself to pizza companies while wearing her university merch, ultimately landing her first internship.
The current internship landscape may be competitive, but it’s also changing for the better. Companies are recognizing the need to pay interns well and value their potential. For students looking to make their mark, creativity and a strategic approach can be your best tools for success.
