GS IBD (NAT) vs PJT M&A

Current Sophomore (Diversity) at a Semi-target. 

I've reviewed loads of these EB vs BB posts and understand these are getting mad annoying but thought it would be nice for a third party to check my rationale. 

Received both offers from accel. Superdays and was wondering which would be marginally better suited for overall experiences.

First of all, don't intend to stay at banking whatsoever and will highly likely be moving to UMM PE post analyst stint (no interest in MFs) or public markets/entrepreneurial endeavors if possible. Really enjoyed speaking to the professionals at both firms but generally got the sense that PJT's generalist model gives a more flexible industry experience/product execution while GS NAT deals largely with the energy/chemicals/minings and utilities space only and the exits are somewhat tailored to the space.

I personally don't mind companies in the NAT space but given that I rather not head to a MF nor an exit in energy, thought PJT might give the most optionality industry-wise. Definitely understand the name value of "GS" outside the finance space if I pursue a corp dev. route but I believe the ability the generalist program at PJT gives a more holistic view on business frameworks & taylor my experience to understand crypto-mining operations to bio-tech companies. Culture is very subjective so won't comment on that although haven't heard too many good things about the NAT group in terms of hours/formality. 

All things considered, PJT M&A program seems to give me a marginal advantage in terms of experience/culture but don't got a clue on what I'm doing as a sophomore. Any thoughts on this would be much appreciated. 

11 Comments
 

I’d choose PJT too. Of course you always have the brand name at GS but it sounds like the PJT one will provide you with a better skill set and be a better experience. Even if you plan to leave after your Analyst stint, I think picking PJT is the better option

 
Most Helpful

NatRes is a good group, at the end of the day its a classic group at GS which means its pretty solid however from what I hear it doesn't have the same effect as other groups such as TMT/FIG or even CSR/HC which leads to mediocre exits. Also heard the culture isn't great. 

PJT will probably give you a better experience unless you are interested in NatRes but I don't think you would ask this question if you liked NatRes. If this was any other group it'd be more of a toss up. 

Not in NR btw so what I have to say is mostly from friends who've interned or just my opinion.

 

Was in the same boat and chose GS. I also wasn't 100% set on finance and wanted some broader optionality in terms of brand name. I think this forum leans EB generally, though I'm sure you'll enjoy your experience wherever you go. 

 

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