Stay Put or try to Recruit Full Time?
Hi all,
I'm a rising senior at a non-target state school, graduating on paper in December 2025. I originally planned to graduate in May 2025, but tried to reclass in hopes of rerecruiting. Technically, given that I added a minor, it would make sense for me to stay an extra semester, but realistically if I hustle I can graduate on time, which is what I'm planning to do now. I had tried to recruit for 2025 SA roles, but fell short for investment banking, and instead landing a WM gig at a family office back home. I've settled in nicely to this new role, am happy to be client facing, and genuinely enjoy it, but I'm conflicted; If I go back full time next year like I've been offered, I've been told I would be provided a natural market to work, and think I have potential in an entrepreneurial sense. However, I would be basically "eating what I kill', and likely wouldn't have much of a starting salary. I was interested in equity research, but tried to recruit for IB b/c of the money and what people around me were doing, and now I'm torn between trying to recruit full time for ER, or go out on my own as part of the family office next year after I graduate. Would this make sense? Would people even trust me with so little investment experience? Is networking to get hired full time for ER even possible off cycle? If anyone can provide advice or insight it'd be greatly appreciated. Should I try for AM? You get the idea, I'm a little lost.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:
Evaluate Your Current Role and Future Potential:
Consider Your Long-Term Goals:
Networking and Recruiting:
Asset Management (AM) as an Alternative:
Decision-Making:
In summary, carefully evaluate your current role's potential, consider your long-term career goals, and leverage networking to explore opportunities in ER, IB, or AM. Making an informed decision will help you align your career path with your aspirations.
Sources: Asset Management vs Investment Banking 101, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/m7-ib-associate-full-time-recruiting?customgpt=1, Offer to go to AM but I like M&A, Guide for Investment Banking Full-Time Recruiting, Division I All-American at Semi Target- quit or no?
Bump
You have a job, take it man. No reason to fuck yourself over by going for ER unless you have insane conviction or a deep rooted passion for it (which I’m assuming you don’t because of what you said). There are parts of WM which are actually pretty similar to ER, and you still get the benefit of working in the markets + wayyyy better WLB. You can make a killing and yes it is merit based but instead of viewing that as a negative you should frame it as a positive. I know some seniors in WM who rake in more than most #1 ranked II analysts lol…
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