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November 30, 2026
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This sounds like a very personal decision. Don’t really know what answer you’re looking for from a forum dedicated to IB. If your intel role is more fulfilling and you can support yourself and family with it, then go for it if that’s where you’re heart is.
Try flipping a coin, the side you want to win is what you really may want
Lol you make a difference by working for the glowies?
Ah, the age-old question of passion versus paycheck. It's a tough one, isn't it?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems like you're caught between two worlds. On one hand, you have the high-stakes, high-reward world of Investment Banking (IB), and on the other, the fulfilling but less lucrative world of public service.
In IB, the compensation is indeed attractive, and the work can be intellectually stimulating. However, as you've pointed out, it can sometimes feel like a grind, especially if you don't feel a personal connection to the work you're doing.
On the flip side, public service offers the chance to make a tangible difference in the world. The work can be deeply satisfying, but the financial rewards are typically less.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you value most. If financial security for your family is your top priority, sticking with IB might be the best route. However, if making a difference and feeling fulfilled in your work is more important, a return to public service could be the right move.
Remember, there's no right or wrong answer here. It's about finding the balance that works best for you. And who knows? Maybe there's a third option out there that offers the best of both worlds. Keep exploring, my friend!
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/i-am-leaving-investment-banking-to-be-a-cop?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/public-finance-qa?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/public-finance-into-investment-banking?customgpt=1, career in banking/finance = employee for the rest of your life?
Take the cash and volunteer your time to organizations that need intelligence experience to do good, finding missing kids, etc.
I'd look into Consulting for the Government and Military Contractors (Booz Allen, Chertoff, etc).
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