Associate -- BB or EB?

I know this question has been asked in the past on this forum, but I had a few points to add.

I'll be attending a target MBA program next Fall with the goal of recruiting for IB (most likely Industrials groups). I'd like to remain in banking as long as I can, but understand that's easier said than done, so I'm trying to figure out how to 'hedge' my risks the best.

If I wanted to stay in banking but leave M&A for ECM/DCM, I know that's feasible at a BB. If I wanted to focus more on M&A, I can lateral to an Independent Advisory (EB) down the road. If I exit to client-side, I know that's feasible from both platforms. Obviously Independents pay more, but I'm not sure how to factor this in my decision.

Because of these reasons, I feel BB would be a better starting point for me. The experience (different products) and ability to lateral/exit seems to provide more optionality. What do you think? Is there something I'm not considering? 

Thanks.

7 Comments
 

I guess i understand the sentiment, but not sure i agree. There are some major differences between BBs and independents. Maybe that won't end up mattering to OP, but I'd say there's at least some possibility that you'd want to only target one type of firm over the other after you do your diligence.

Why you want to work at an independent is also a common interview question so its also not wasted effort

 

at post-MBA level it really comes down to culture and for that reason I would always recommend EVR over other BB. There is always a misconception that going to GS will lead to better exit opportunity. To some extend this is true at the analyst level, but definitely not at the post-mba associate level where good exit opportunities are harder to come by. More importantly, any exit opportunities that is open to you will ultimately boil down to your individual ability rather than where you have worked. If are you have raw talent, it really doesn't matter where you work at. Ask yourself after spending $250K on a MBA and deciding to spend your next 3-5 years in IB, would you want to work in a collaborative environment where people respect you or grind until 3am everyday with no two f*cks given about your well-being. 

 

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