Not 21 This Summer - Advice?

I’ve got an IB summer analyst position this summer in Chicago, but won’t be 21 yet. I’m scared this will affect my full time offer chances if coworkers ask me to go out to have a drink. I have a really good ID, however don’t want to get in trouble with them. Would they care if I used it? Any other ways to socialize outside of work if I can’t grab drinks? I’m sure there’s other analysts who were younger like me, would love to here there experiences too. Also would like to hear from current analysts/associates and how much this affects an offer.

23 Comments
 

Obviously I know drinking age isn't the only thing that leads to FT offers. But colleagues have told me how important fit/building good relationships with analysts/associates is on top of skill set for FT offers.

"hugenontargetguy" I’ve got an IB summer analyst position this summer in Chicago, but won’t be 21 yet. I’m scared this will affect my full time offer chances if coworkers ask me to go out to have a drink I have a really good ID, however don’t want to get in trouble with them. Would they care if I used it? Any other ways to socialize outside of work if I can’t grab drinks? I’m sure there’s other analysts who were younger like me, would love to here there experiences too. Also would like to hear from current analysts/associates and how much this affects an offer.
 
Best Response

Had a similar problem this past summer, when people asked for drinks I’d always say “thanks but I’m not 21” they definitely understood since it’s definitley risky using a fake with professionals than with your roommates or friends. Conversations did come up a few times about alcohol, and I talked about my favorite drinks, or (appropriate) experiences at college so I didn’t seem like I wasn’t sociable. However, whenever they asked to grab a bite or go to, say, a baseball game I always took them up on the offer.

 

I'd say it depends and the only way to know is to feel out how people in the office are. If they seem fratty, broish, etc. then they probably won't give a fuck. Did a summer analyst gig at an IB my sophomore year, and not only did the bankers there (including most MDs) know I wasn't 21, but they would let me drink in the office with them, buy drinks for me when we'd go out to restaurants, or they'd even tell me to get my fake if they'd know we'd be going somewhere for drinking.

So like I said, just get a sense of who'd be fine with it and who wouldn't, and you'll be fine.

 

Non-existent party scene for under 21 in Boston outside of frat parties. You might find an 18+ event at a club maybe once every month or two

EDIT: There is also a gay/drag club that has 18+ on Fridays if you're into that

 

Some places will not care, some will. Just ask around and you will find the places that will let you in. Might want to watch out though, last thing you need is a citation for being drunk underage during your SA stint.

 

Be careful...most bars and clubs are pretty strict. Most restaurants will not really care. Also depends on when you go out. Friday and Saturday places are more strict than say a Monday afternoon. If you look like your friend you should not have a problem.

The Macro View http://themacroview.wordpress.com
 

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