Early Career Choices

Quick Profile: Tier 1 Target school, now at NYC MM bank where people lateral just fine but do not place directly into PE.

Took the internship here because it was my first offer and I was particularly risk averse.

Took return offer because hours were light for banking and comp was in line with a MM bank (160-175K all-in expectation).

Just barely into the job, and the coworkers I talk to do seem to enjoy the job, hours (unless on a particularly busy deal, 9-9 estimate at analyst level, 9-7/8 estimated associate), and team culture. This is generally why I decided not to rerecruit at any point, despite having a profile that I think would allow me to do so. Ultimately, nobody in this group really exits, and I sometimes wonder if that’s because everyone enjoys the group, or if there’s a lack of optionality, or a combination.

Seeing peers place more focus on PE recruiting does leave me a bit worried I’ll come to regret this down the line. Understand how this comes across—barely on the job, and probably a bit ridiculous-sounding, but I am considering what it would take to lateral and then subsequently recruit for PE.

Wondering if anyone has any experience with this situation, basically. Does it make sense to always be on the climb / is it worth hunting for a bigger name and worse hours? Or should comparatively good jobs not be taken for granted.

I’m not in love with any particular industry to be honest, long-term I just want to maximize earnings while minimizing hours and stress. Somewhat grappling with the trade-off between grinding now and having more (PE route) earnings upside in my 30s, or a lesser grind in my 20s with still great comp (which I am grateful for).

Not complaining at all, I’m very lucky compared to most in this world, these are just some of my thoughts I’d love to hear opinions on. Thanks.