Concerns about leaving Lateral "Elite" Boutique M&A after 1yr

Bump

What year analyst did you lateral in as? At this point are you even in a program/definitive end contract?

Don't think anyone would ever question a IB to HF move so if you think its a good opportunity that you can stick with for 2+ years then I don't see what is holding you back at this point.

If anything it would look good.. Instead of the usual 2 year, you got into a HF in an year.

@ Quaneaser I came in as a 2nd year analyst. Firm is under the impression I will be here for two years but after comp hits there is really nothing holding me back. Some of the funds I'm interested in pursuing are relatively new startups that would give me a potential career track role, not the big brand names, so trying to weigh that.

@C0demonkey I agree with that, but I've heard admissions highly values the "elite boutique" brand over the bulge bracket. The question is does 2 years of M&A matter in the eyes of admissions, or will quitting early count against me. That's really the only debate at this point.

@arminvanbuyout Yes, now beginning my fourth year of banking

IMO you should go for it. Admissions are going to see you did your two years at BB and an extra year at elite followed by HF than you're in a better position than 2 yeares in sell side, followed by few years in buy side.. Sure you may learn another thing or two but an extra year on the buy side may be worth more.

The more you over think it, the more you regret decisions later on. Remember like you said, its competitive out there.. And they may always think.."oh look at this guy, he spent an extra two years in IB.. Probably wasn't good enough to make it after first two years "