Quit after 1year IBD to start computer science undergrad

Hi wso,

I am currently a first year at an EB and considering to quit after receiving my first year bonus and pursue a computer science degree afterwards. For context:


22yrs old, live in a completely foreign city, with really no social life and I feel extremely sick of my life and job as it is right now. Even though I thought I knew what I was getting into (following multiple internships, also with my current firm), I just dont see myself in banking in the long (and near) term.


My question now is, whether it is crucial to stay in banking for 2yrs (vs. 1yr), especially considering that after my planned CS degree I would not rule it out that I might be looking for a job in finance again (however not IBD). Points I am currently considering:

  • 2yr bonus I would be missing out (that could help me with my studies, if I wanted to pursue a CS afterall)

  • Potentially burnt bridges

  • Leaving a negative impression on any future employees (potentially finance related, e.g. VC, trading etc.), following my CS undergrad


Would love to have your thoughts on this, maybe some of have been in a similar situation.


Thanks a lot!

 

Are you sure you want to do a CS undergrad though? CS can be very remote from actual programming, and is actually closer to math. Why do you want to do that? Do you want to acquire a "background" in tech or are you trying to potentially pivot towards a software development role? In both cases, I wouldn't recommend studying for 3 or 4 additional years. Joining a tech startup would offer more opportunities, and the pay cut you'd experience would still be better than no income at all.

@Malta"

 
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