I am lost - Need Help
Hi everyone,
I was an international student who came to a non-target school in the UK to study economics. Despite no prior experience or knowledge of the process, I hustled my way through to secured a LevFin role at a decent BB. But 6 months in I hate it. I have no fucking clue how to proceed in life. I hate the job with a passion. While the tasks in itself are fairly interesting and engaging, the ad-hoc tasks are just a pain. Combine this with people who somehow seemed to be hellbent on just ruining your life, I dread everyday of my life.
The grass maybe greener on the other side. I think consulting is really where my heart lies. I like having new problems to solve everyday and a fresh change in scenery every now and then. I decided to take a shot and apply to LSE’s MiM program and got in. I know I hate IB but this degree doesn’t guarantee a consulting gig either. This coupled with the fact that I am on a sponsored visa means I am very lost and need advice on how I can best move forward in life.
Should I take the LSE offer and start over? Should I just suck it up ? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Navigating a career transition, especially from a field as demanding as Investment Banking (IB) to another competitive field like consulting, requires careful consideration and strategic planning. Given your situation, here are some insights and steps you might consider:
Evaluate the LSE MiM Program: The LSE's Master in Management (MiM) program is highly regarded and could indeed open doors to consulting roles, given its strong academic reputation and network. However, it's crucial to research and understand how well the program aligns with consulting firms' recruitment criteria and the success rate of graduates entering the consulting industry.
Consider the Visa Implications: Moving from a sponsored visa in a full-time role to student status will have implications for your ability to work in the UK both during and after your studies. Investigate the post-study work visa options in the UK, such as the Graduate Route, which allows graduates to stay in the UK and work at any skill level for 2 years after completing their studies (3 years for PhD graduates).
Networking and Informational Interviews: Before making any decisions, try to network with current students or alumni of the LSE MiM program who made a similar transition to consulting. Their insights could be invaluable in understanding the challenges and opportunities you might face. Additionally, reach out to professionals in the consulting industry to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day work and whether it aligns with your interests and career aspirations.
Consider Alternative Paths to Consulting: While a MiM degree can be a valuable asset, it's not the only path into consulting. Given your experience in LevFin at a BB, you might already have transferable skills that consulting firms value, such as financial analysis, project management, and client interaction. Exploring lateral moves within your current organization or directly applying to consulting firms could be an alternative worth considering.
Personal Fulfillment and Career Satisfaction: Ultimately, your career decisions should align with what brings you fulfillment and satisfaction. If the culture and work in IB are not a good fit for you, it's important to acknowledge that and explore paths that align more closely with your interests and values.
Professional Guidance: Consider seeking advice from a career coach or mentor who specializes in finance and consulting careers. They can offer personalized advice and help you navigate the transition more effectively.
Remember, it's okay to feel lost at times in your career. What's important is taking proactive steps to explore your options, gather information, and make informed decisions that align with your long-term career goals and personal well-being.
Sources: LEK London rescinding offers for MBAs starting in September 2020, Shd I take the offer from Lazard?, LSE Worth it?, Reneging a BB offer, MSF Class of 2018
following
From what I've read on other posts, I'll try help. Don't take my word as gospel until confirmation though.
I think there is a consensus that sticking out 2 years in IB is ideal. 1 year I'd imagine is a decent while, but assume a slightly tougher situation to explain. Anything less than that looks quite awkward and reflects poorly on you.
But tbh you don't need the LSE MiM, it's unnecessary debt. If you've got into a BB you can easily move over to MBB organically without the need for that, unless it's a goal of yours to go to the LSE.
I'd say stick out the year at least and try facilitate a move to MBB by networking in the meantime. There's a guy called DrApemanCo or similar and is super super helpful with MBB posts in EU (helped me on understanding comps in London MBB, switches to and from IB, exits from consulting etc.) - just search for London MBB on here and it should come up.
Not sure how, but I know there's a possibility your Visa gets in the way of something here. Unfortunately, I'm not informed on the topic to advise you there. If you add more detail hopefully someone else can chime in.
Best of luck!
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