Just feeling lost and burned out
Hey All,
I wanted to know people opinions on what they think I should do.
So, after doing my finance masters (and graduating with the highest grade) I really wanted to do M&A. I didnt come from a finance background so didnt really have any IB internships. I had two interviews with MMs/EBs (think Jeff/Gugg/FT/Baird etc).both of which messed me up (did 8 interviews for each before being rejected for no reason).
Ended up taking am internship at a no name boutique for 6 months (they dont convert) hours were chill but I really loved the work..
Afterwards started applying and ended up interviewing for the LevFin desk at a European bank - I honestly didnt know what LevFin was.
I was told because its a European bank its going to be chill (good hours) but terrible salary (think half of market) - I thought it would be a good learning experience while giving me a chance to continue applying for M&A. So got through the interviews and found myself hitting the desk as an intern with no training just have no idea whats going on. Worst of all hours arent chill. Normal Days we finish 11:30, with deals can get to 3am (have just spent the past 6 days, including Sat and Sun in office working on a deal from 9am to 2am)
Part of me just feels like I'm not doing what I genuinely wanted to do and the other half feels like I'm being enslaved for pennies so I'm not getting anything out of the job. I just feel like quitting but dont want my CV looking like i failed.
whats everyones thoughts?
Ah, the classic tale of high finance aspirations meeting the grindstone – it's a story I've seen unfold on Wall Street Oasis more times than I can count. Here's a bunch of bananas for thought:
Reevaluate Your Goals: You started with a passion for M&A but found yourself in LevFin. It's crucial to ask yourself if M&A is still what you truly want, or if there's a part of LevFin you might grow to love. Sometimes the universe throws us in the deep end to discover new strengths.
Consider the Learning Curve: LevFin, especially at a European bank, can be a steep learning curve. But remember, every analyst or associate is green at some point. The skills you're picking up, even if the hours are brutal, are valuable. You're learning to swim in deep waters, and that's commendable.
Work-Life Balance: It sounds like the work-life balance promised isn't the reality. This is a common issue in banking. If the hours are affecting your health or personal life, it's worth considering other options. Your well-being should always come first.
Salary vs. Experience: You mentioned the pay isn't great. In finance, especially early on, there's often a trade-off between salary and experience. If the experience can lead to a better role (either in LevFin or M&A), it might be worth the short-term sacrifice.
Exit Opportunities: LevFin experience can be quite valuable and can lead to various exit opportunities, including corporate development, which you mentioned as an interest. It's a solid foundation for a career in finance, even if it's not your end goal.
The CV Concern: Quitting isn't failing. It's about framing your story. If you decide to leave, it's about the narrative you craft – seeking a role more aligned with your long-term goals can be a very valid reason for a move.
Networking: Continue to network aggressively. The WSO Networking Guide can be a goldmine for strategies on how to connect with M&A professionals and potentially pivot back into that field.
Mental Health: Don't underestimate the importance of mental health. If you're feeling burned out, it might be time to take a step back and assess. No job is worth sacrificing your mental well-being.
Remember, every monkey in finance has felt lost in the jungle at some point. It's a rite of passage. Keep your head up, and don't be afraid to reach out for advice or mentorship. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can make all the difference.
Sources: Thoughts on LinkedIn Internship Farewell Announcement?, LevFin WLB-focused Exits and Other Questions, Honest Opinions on Deutsche Bank, Quitting Finance, LevFin hours? Do you like the work?
bump
keep applying to whatever opens, yours hours are not normal at all
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