Why, monkey? Why banking?

From looking at your post, I'm recalling many fond memories of answering this question for interviewers on countless occasions.

Before I answer, I'll give a background story on my experiences. I am graduating from the engineering school at my current university. I interned at a bank last summer and will be working full time as an Analyst in SF. In precedent summers, I interned at a consulting firm, and had a strategic planning role at a digital media startup company. I also did a couple of internships at startup companies during the school year.

While the exit ops, lifestyle, and the money are certainly advantages to doing I-banking, I saw plenty of other potential gains in it as well. First off, you learn a lot through staying in touch with current events and market conditions and you become well versed in the industry(ies) you cover. This definitely gives you some discussion points at a cocktail party :). Additionally, the skills you learn can be applied to many things. Accounting, Modeling, learning how to sell yourself, the attention to detail, and the work ethic are some of those useful skills. I've seen people start in Investment Banking, and then succeed as consultants, entrepreneurs, PE/HF managers, and even as bankers.

As far as your situation is concerned RaRe, I would analyze what you genuinely find appealing about the jobs you're researching and then choose the one that sticks out the most - whether or not that path is banking.

thanks cali,you've somewhat restored my faith in the banking set.

I just sent you a PM. I am in a very similar situation as you in terms of experiences but unfortunately have not received an offer yet. Hoping to hear back!