Summer 2012 - Big Four in Ghana or Boutique IB

Hi Everyone,

I have the opportunity to intern with one of the Big Four Accounting firms in Ghana or the option to intern at a boutique investment bank.

I have previously held internships with two boutique investment banks and would like to work within the investment banking industry upon graduation in May 2013 (whether that be at a bulge bracket or a boutique bank).

Any opinions/suggestions would be much appreciated!

Thanks!

12 Comments
 

Most likely TAS but not 100% positive...

"A man always has two reasons for doing anything: a good reason and the real reason." - JP Morgan
 

Well TAS is obviously a plus over audit. But my gut says the boutique IB. I will let others chime in with their opinions though

I didn't say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.
 

I wouldn't be going to school while in Ghana. I would be interning with a Big Four while participating on work involving microfinance and other sustainable programs for the community.

"A man always has two reasons for doing anything: a good reason and the real reason." - JP Morgan
 

By micro-finance, I meant within the community as community service....separate from the Big Four gig. Regardless, I agreed with what you are staying.

"A man always has two reasons for doing anything: a good reason and the real reason." - JP Morgan
 

I say go volunteer. Your experiences doing volunteer work in Ghana will mean so much more to your life than another boutique IB internship. Once you get into IB FT, you'll realize that you're still living a life of mediocrity. Sure from a career perspective, you're probably "better off" than most of your peers. But the chase for money and prestige is still - and always - going to be there. It's honestly a race that you'll never win, so why the hurry? Why not do something that actually means something besides moving logos and binding pitchbooks for a summer. If you're a legit ass candidate, you'll find another way into IB.

 
Best Response
needtodecideI say go volunteer. Your experiences doing volunteer work in Ghana will mean so much more to your life than another boutique IB internship. Once you get into IB FT, you'll realize that you're still living a life of mediocrity. Sure from a career perspective, you're probably "better off" than most of your peers. But the chase for money and prestige is still - and always - going to be there. It's honestly a race that you'll never win, so why the hurry? Why not do something that actually means something besides moving logos and binding pitchbooks for a summer. If you're a legit ass candidate, you'll find another way into IB.

I agree with this completely and fully. Volunteering is one of those intangible aspects of life that will not only make you stand out, but also make you a happier person.

If you want IB bad enough, you'll find your way. There is always a way.

 

Agree with needtodecide and Whiskey. Being able to talk about your experience in Ghana > boutique shit.

MM IB -> Corporate Development -> Strategic Finance
 

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"A man always has two reasons for doing anything: a good reason and the real reason." - JP Morgan

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