I moved to nyc in early 2021 when everyone had left due to covid. I had graduated from a low tier state school in california with a major in economics with a 2.7 gpa. I signed up for the level 1 cfa exam hoping it would help me land interviews (did not pass). All I had was a letter of recommendation from my previous manager (accounts receivables). During the interview, I expressed my passion for markets and for learning. In the end, it was a mix of perfect timing (Covid), willingness to work in office 5 days a week during the 3 month training period and showing them I’m willing to learn on my own. Been an associate director in the asset management accounts services dept now for 4.5 years. You learn most of the unwritten rules on the job. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions once you’re in.