Are MBA Associates Worse Than Epstein?

Hey monkeys,

More of a philosophical question today, but inspired by recent events.

I’m an A2 at a BB, and last week we got a new MBA associate. Yesterday he accidentally deleted a sheet in our operating model, and instead of fixing it himself, he told me to remake it. When I protested this ridiculous ask, he told me it would be a great chance for “extra reps” and that these moments “separate bottom and top bucket analysts.”

Overall, if I had to guess, the median MBA associate is better than Epstein, but the average is worse (long tail distribution, largely NYU/Columbia’s fault).

15 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, the sentiment around MBA associates can be polarizing. Many analysts and junior bankers express frustration with MBA associates, particularly those who lack technical skills or exhibit arrogance despite limited relevant experience. Common complaints include:

  1. Lack of Technical Skills: Many MBA associates come from non-finance backgrounds and struggle with the technical aspects of the job, often relying on analysts to fill in the gaps.
  2. Ego and Attitude: Some associates are perceived as overly confident or dismissive, which can create friction with analysts who are often more technically proficient.
  3. Delegation Issues: Stories like the one you shared—where an associate delegates tasks they should handle themselves—are not uncommon. This behavior is often seen as a lack of accountability or understanding of the workload.

However, it's worth noting that not all MBA associates fit this mold. Some bring valuable maturity, communication skills, and a broader perspective from their prior work experience. The variability in quality seems to stem from differences in background, humility, and willingness to learn.

As for the "Epstein" comparison, that's clearly hyperbolic and meant to be provocative. While MBA associates may have their flaws, they are far from being universally "worse" than such an extreme reference. The key takeaway is that the effectiveness of an MBA associate often depends on their ability to adapt, collaborate, and respect the expertise of their team.

Sources: Why are post-MBA associates so bad?, The trials and tribulations of the MBA Associate: Three reality checks for your first three months, MBA Associates are Fucking Douchebags!

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

As an MBA I was surprised for a second then remembered my worst classmates. Tracks.

Hope those assholes get logged out of all their streaming apps and step in puddles every day through eternity.

 

I had the misfortune of working with someone who could only be described as "like Epstein".  If you've ever read about Jeffrey in his Bear Stearns days, you know what I'm talking about.

If you're a man, well, those types of people are harmless.  If you're a woman, oh boy, pick the MBA associate.

 

I’m an MBA Associate at a top BB or (GS/MS) and all of us but two here work in the trenches with our analysts. I’m saying— working late nights, handling models, turning comments, doing grunt work — and try to make our analysts life as easier as we can. For that reason, our group has a great culture even when we are working on mega deals regularly and constantly sleep-deprived. So maybe it might be true that there is a long end tail of bad associates, but not all of us are like that. 

 
Funniest

First of all, you should be thanking your new MBA Associate for his guidance and for giving you this opportunity. He’s looking out for your development and managing upwards and downwards. 

He’s probably already told your MDs how he’s given you plenty of guidance on how to get the model on track, and how you can be very effective when given the right push.

Second of all, make sure you let him send the model up the chain and to the client. You can step in on any calls or if any questions come up.

 

VP in IB-M&A

The most insecure scums are A2A promotes. As usual over compensating. 

Sounds like you're compensating for the fact that they're better than you kiddo

 

My worst sins are jacking off and playing poker no way im going to the same hell as Epstein

 

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