Hello all, Im faced with quite a dilemma. Unfortunately, as you can tell by my username I transferred and completed my economics degree in a low-semi-to-non-target university in my country (aimless wandering; decided my career path late junior year). My GPA is ~3.5. Through language/interviewing skills and networking, I’ve since managed to land an Analyst (M&A) job at a respectable MM bank where I’ve been for about 1.5 years, and had a few deals closed. I’m at the point where I’d love to move upmarket, but due to my pedigree, macro circumstance and relatively shit country for finance (highly elitist, few seats occupied by the 3 targets; I like it here though) I’m finding it quite difficult to lateral, even through the typical graduate schemes. It essentially comes down to:
1.- Leave current job and pursue target masters full-time, where the sky is the theoretical limit.
2.- Stay in current job, further build CV, and pursue strong semi-target masters (can be done during weekends) for a shot at most banks except the top-tier BBs.
What would you do?
Thanks and sorry for the wall of text.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights to consider for your dilemma:
Option 1: Leave Current Job and Pursue Target Masters Full-Time
Pros:
Cons:
Option 2: Stay in Current Job and Pursue Strong Semi-Target Masters Part-Time
Pros:
Cons:
Additional Considerations:
Conclusion:
Both options have their merits, and the best choice depends on your personal circumstances and career aspirations. If maximizing your chances at top-tier banks is your priority, pursuing a target master's full-time might be the way to go. However, if you value financial stability and continued work experience, staying in your current job while pursuing a part-time master's could be a viable path.
Good luck with your decision!
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/ibd-sa-after-graduation?customgpt=1, 3.9 GPA from an Ivy League school in a useless major. What are my options?, Move from back office to middle office to front office, Feel like I'm going to be stuck in this job, what do I do?, Analyst at 27 or head to B school?
You already have a few deals closed, why settle for the lower tier masters and close doors for yourself? The additional CV building you’re citing as the reason will be very marginal. I’d definitely go for the target masters
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