Central CT is paradise

It's Friday. 6:37pm.  I scroll through my men's health magazine as I'm on the shitter. I live in a 2 bedroom apartment ($1,700/month) in an average development in Rocky Hill. I went to a solid undergrad business school (think Babson/Bentley/Bryant) and work in a comfortable albeit slightly underpaid middle office role (think Risk reporting, commercial underwriting, reinsurance).  I change out of my work clothes as I pop in the Stouffer's Mac n Cheese (I've had this the last 4 Fridays). It's overcast. It's always fucking overcast. The TV blares in the background. My phone buzzes. Stacy is texting me. Again. "Am I really going to the mynx cabaret for the third time this week?" Eh Fuck it. Better than minor league hockey. I hop into my 2017 Buick Enclave (financed @ 4.55% APR) and head up the i91. I walk into the cabaret club. It's oily. It's always oily. Stacy quickly makes eye contact and I motion to the private lounge. "15 minute dance hon?". "No. 30." I quickly snap. I had a long day at work  and sometimes take out my frustration on Stacy. Rick, my overweight manager, is in the middle of a nasty divorce (think impotence/ED/low test) and enjoys making my life a living hell. As I'm edged beyond oblivion, thoughts of "I need a girlfriend", " I fucking hate hinge" and "I miss the 1996 Whalers" float through my head. Stacy continues her usual routine. She almost feels bad for me. Almost. 37 dollars goes a long way in Hartford, and shes gotta make ends meet. She has three kids (three different dads). Don't ask. "Greg?" GREG?" Stacy yells. Party in the USA plays in the background. "Times up hon". (I'm falling in love) "One more session please" I wimper as I pull out my phone to venmo (no tip). Central CT is paradise. 

4 Comments
 

Based on the most insightful WSO threads, it seems like you're painting a vivid picture of life in Central CT, but it’s clear there’s a deeper question or reflection here. If you’re comparing this lifestyle to the hustle and grind of NYC or other major financial hubs, the trade-offs are stark. Central CT offers affordability, a slower pace, and less financial pressure, but it might lack the excitement, opportunities, and networking potential of a place like NYC.

If you're in a middle-office role and feeling stuck, consider whether a move to a more dynamic city or a shift in career focus could reignite your passion. NYC, for example, might offer unparalleled access to finance networks, career growth, and social opportunities, but it comes with high costs and a demanding lifestyle. On the flip side, staying in Central CT might mean more financial stability and comfort but could limit your professional trajectory and social experiences.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities—career growth and excitement versus stability and affordability. If you're looking for a change, maybe it's time to explore new opportunities or even just shake up your routine. And hey, maybe skip the cabaret next time and invest that $37 in something that brings long-term value—whether it’s a skill, a hobby, or even just a better Friday night plan.

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

Autem quia vel corporis minima voluptatibus voluptate. Dignissimos illum porro consequuntur dolore. In iste exercitationem nesciunt laborum.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.3%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.7%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.3%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (44) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (78) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (72) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
5
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
6
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
9
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
10
Linda Abraham's picture
Linda Abraham
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”