Need Life/Career Advice

Hey guys, So I’m graduating next year of spring 2025, but my internship starts summer 2025. I would assume that I would start after my fall of 2026 (if I was still in school). What should I do for that year? Option A: Should I get a masters? (Ask for school to pay for it?) Option B: Travel around the world? Option C: stay home and do some charity work for 1 year Let me know what y’all think I should do?

5 Comments
 

If you didn't major/minor in finance, I would sway towards getting your masters. This would also help with FT recruiting if you don't get a return offer. 

Otherwise, I think a combination of travel, charity work, and/or maybe finding an interesting Fall/Winter internship? Also some self reflection/betterment would probably be good before going into the work force - develop healthy habits, get fit, etc.

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, making a decision about what to do in a gap year before starting your career can be a pivotal moment. Each option you've listed has its own set of benefits and potential drawbacks, depending on your career goals, financial situation, and personal growth objectives. Here's a breakdown to consider:

Option A: Pursue a Master's Degree

  • Pros: Enhances your academic credentials and potentially increases your marketability. Specializing in a field could give you an edge in competitive job markets.
  • Cons: Costly unless you secure funding. It's essential to consider the ROI of your chosen field of study.

Option B: Travel Around the World

  • Pros: Offers personal growth, exposure to different cultures, and a broader worldview. These experiences can enhance your soft skills, such as adaptability and communication, which are valuable in any career.
  • Cons: Can be expensive. It's crucial to plan financially to make the most out of this experience without jeopardizing your future financial stability.

Option C: Engage in Charity Work

  • Pros: Provides a sense of fulfillment and gives back to the community. It's an excellent way to develop new skills and could be a valuable addition to your resume, showcasing your commitment to social causes.
  • Cons: Financially, you might not be compensated for your work, so it's important to have a plan for supporting yourself during this time.

Given these considerations, the best choice depends on your personal and professional priorities. If advancing your career through further education is paramount, Option A might be the way to go. If you're seeking personal growth and unique experiences, Option B could offer unparalleled opportunities. Meanwhile, Option C might be the most fulfilling if you're passionate about making a difference and gaining new perspectives through service.

Reflect on where you see yourself in the future, both in terms of career and personal development. Consider also talking to mentors or professionals in your desired field to get their take. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer, but aligning your choice with your long-term goals is key.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/should-i-take-a-gap-year-before-university-uk?customgpt=1, Advice From an Advisor to Senior Wall Streeters, Getting job after 2-3 years unemployed, Approaching 30 and lost, Gap year at HYP: help me decide

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Et recusandae perspiciatis porro voluptates et. Id eum atque recusandae. Aut nesciunt cupiditate quae minus quia ea.

Alias unde laudantium accusamus modi. Quasi quasi ullam fugiat et facilis dolores sapiente. Consequatur qui eos ea. Fugit unde autem consequatur amet repudiandae. Voluptas ad tenetur non sed.

Officiis ut animi quaerat accusantium nam et. Nobis rem molestiae quis et. Et voluptatem laboriosam beatae. Rerum harum suscipit dolorem ut. Laborum ut incidunt et assumenda mollitia. Repellendus voluptates vitae facilis dolores ut magni. Voluptatem id ipsa deserunt corporis illo cumque sapiente.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.2%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.7%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.3%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (44) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (78) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (72) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
5
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
6
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
9
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
10
Mimbs's picture
Mimbs
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”