How to initiate getting hired for an investment banking internship?

I am currently looking for an internship to do during my junior year at a top 50 university. I have already created a resume and cover letter, along with researching possible employers (such as Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley and UBS). However I do not know where to go from here. Should I mail my resume and CL to the companies first, or should I call their HR department first? Or is there a completely different route I should take? I'm open to advice or suggestions.

A couple of thoughts from someone who did the same thing when they were in college:

1. Regardless of what results from my other advice, yes, go ahead and send in your resume.

2. Check with your recruiting office -- see if they have lists of alums who are willing to help alumni and see if there are any alumni so listed at any of the investment banks. Then try and use those contacts. Same thing if you are in a fraternity or a sport or any organization where you can find a contact to introduce you. Connections are key for internships.

3. If you are a minority or a woman, you can look into SEO -- I don't know if they are still around but they use to hire minorities and women for summer internships in investment banks.

Good luck.

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