Downside to starting on the buy-side?

Question for more experienced monkeys:

I'll be starting FT at a MF in private credit upon graduation. Very excited about it, however, are there any skills that I won't develop as a result of skipping the two years of IB? I'm assuming my options are much more limited in terms of exits? Obviously there are plenty of upsides to doing this, but what are the downsides? Any advice is appreciated!

4 Comments
 

Probably your network. Structured programs at banks are great because you’re just starting your career and then build a close-ish network with your class, other analysts on your team, elsewhere in the bank, etc. It’s surmountable if you don’t do it but certainly is an easy and good thing for you longer term.

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