I wonder if there is a service that just serves as a "degree cleanse" where I can technically say I have a degree from Columbia or something without having to spend $200,000 going through another degree program.
[1] Admittedly for money, but also it's one of the few areas where I might realistically be allowed to do math.
I send an application to RenTec every six months, almost as a joke because I would be extremely surprised if they continue after seeing <NOT A TOP 20 SCHOOL> on my resume. Granted, I don't think you really "apply" to RenTec to begin with, I think realistically they actually find you.
The other way would be to be working at a management or strategy/IT consultancy that is working with the financial institution. That way you can build your own relationships, understand their business and get head-hunted into an internal role when one comes up.
Maybe I should just get my mom to write them a note explaining how clever and handsome I am, because I don't know that that comes through clearly in the resume. If I attached that as a cover letter, it might at least be memorable :)
I could kind of understand this if it was a junior position since the incoming person might not have any real experience, but this was for a staff level and required at least ten years of experience.
I responded back to the recruiter with something like "I didn't go to a fancy school, and I don't want to work with these assholes if they think that that's more important then fifteen years of experience. I'm not sure why you sent this to me, you can see my education history clearly on my LinkedIn profile".
Of course, if you limit your search to the "prestigious" firms, then yes, there is an Ivy league filter. But why would you want to work at a firm that is all style and no substance?