Help/Advice. What should I do?
Hey,
I'm a student at a nontarget school in the Midwest with some solid experience in CS and finance. Right after high school, I did CS at a hedge fund (frontend web dev), and this summer, I'll be doing IB at a bulge bracket bank. I took a gap year for family reasons and took some college courses during that time, so I'll be finishing my undergrad in 3 years.
I’ve got an offer for S&T at another bulge bracket, either for my junior or sophomore summer, depending on how you look at it.
Now, I'm torn between graduating in 3 years and starting in S&T (if I get a return offer) or maybe recruiting for IB or a hedge fund instead. I'm grateful for where I am, considering my background, and I want a job that opens up big opportunities, like starting my own fund or getting into HBS. Given how well I've done despite my school's reputation, I'm wondering if I should stick around for the full 4 years and aim for a top FT role at a BB in IBD or places like P72/Bridgewater/Citadel. I know it’s a long shot, but I’m ready to network like crazy.
Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to consider:
Evaluate Your Career Goals: You mentioned interest in starting your own fund or getting into HBS. Both S&T and IB can provide valuable experiences, but IB typically offers broader exposure to financial modeling and deal-making, which might be more beneficial if you're considering an MBA or starting a fund.
Consider the Impact of Graduating Early: Graduating in 3 years is impressive and can demonstrate your capability and drive. However, staying for the fourth year could provide additional opportunities for internships, networking, and leadership roles on campus, which could be beneficial for MBA applications or more competitive job roles.
Leverage Your Current Offers: Having offers from bulge bracket banks is a strong position. You could use these offers as leverage when applying to other internships or full-time positions. It shows you're a competitive candidate.
Networking is Key: You're ready to network intensely, which is great. Use this to your advantage, especially if you decide to aim for top roles at prestigious firms. Networking can often make the difference, especially coming from a non-target school.
Long-Term vs Short-Term: Consider where you see yourself in 5-10 years and which path better aligns with that vision. S&T and IB offer different career paths, with IB generally providing a broader range of exit opportunities.
Seek Mentorship: Try to find mentors in both S&T and IB. Their insights could be invaluable in helping you make a decision based on firsthand experiences in these fields.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer, and your decision should align with your personal and professional goals.
Sources: Would appreciate some advice, I need your advice, I really need some major life advice. Trying to get my life straight., I need your advice
I don’t think I get the purpose of this post, you have an S&T offer and are debating doing IB instead? Do whatever you find more interesting and will be better at, the other parts will follow.
Thats the problem, I don't know. By the time the internship is over, I would have not prepped for the recruiting reasons if need be. Starting off in a pigeonholed position is what I am afraid of, knowing that I could have ended up wherever should I have asked these questions. I know S&T to HF pivots require some programming knowledge which isn't my cup of tea. My research also shows the possibility of funds blowing up- like dude im just trying to be happy.
In all seriousness though, thank you for the reply.
Point72, Citadel etc will also pigeonhole you. If you want optionality above all else, you should aim for IBD and consulting.
Yeah but thats a pigenonhole that is an end goal for most, at least in the trading space. Why work for 2/3 years before getting there when you can get there out of undergrad.
Correct me if my thought process is wrong.
I think you're underestimating how difficult those spots are to land. There's no real aspect of networking and there's maybe 30 spots across P72 and Citadel for their undergrad L/S roles. Even less for macro.
If I understand correctly, both options at the moment are just speculation/expectation at this point (S&T at bulge brack vs Buy side offers).
I would just focus on learning and doing the best I can at this point. Until you get a confirmed S&T offer at least.
Rest is based on your risk appetite. A conservative approach would be to take the job offer you have today and work well and transition to Buy side later. Helps you save on tuition fee etc. Aggressive approach would be the latter.
You seem like a smart guy. I don't think the lack of ability is what's going to hurt you either way. Availability of opportunity, on the other hand, is not something you can control. So I'd just suggest you to keep that in mind when you are at the point that you really have to make the decision.
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