More Than Just About the Money

I'm working as an SA at a BB in S&T this summer. I get that the whole point of Finance is to make money for the firm and yourself. I obviously want to be well-compensated for my work, but in S&T is there anything more to life than just money?

I am competitive, though more of an intellectual, and I do give a shit about the quality of my work. But I'm definitely not a very greedy person at heart - there's other shit to life beyond numbers in a bank account for me (don't get me wrong, I do care about earning solid money), such as some sliver of happiness. Is there a place for people like me in this business or should I look to other areas - specifically IB?

I've heard of people striking a balance - being a ruthless animal when on the trading floor, while being a completely different person outside of work. Can anyone speak with regards to personally reaching this 'balance'?

Thanks!

 

You're considering the IBD of a BB to get more 'meaning' out of life? Seriously, you're looking at the wrong side of the coin. IB is super boring for the first two years and after that it only get mildly bearable. You should maybe consider something like Consulting where you may have some variety but even then your first few years will be spent doing grunt work.

 
JohnTom:
If you really want to challenge yourself, try and start your own business....

This. Do something you are passionate about and challenge yourself

 

IB is so freaking boring, and 99% of the time your work is dumped in the garbage or you are kissing ass. At least in S&T you could switch around to different products, which in some cases require more intellect than greed. And also your first 4 yrs are really going to suck whether you are in IB or S&T. People usually jump into PE and HF's after that because the work gets a lot more interesting, and challenging.

 

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