Social Life Vs. Career

I am currently weighing a decision between two FT opportunities. One is in a T1 city where I know more people but it is a lesser known firm and do not like the people working there as much (I do not dislike them, just didn't click quite as well). The other is a larger firm in a T2/T3 city, really liked the people and the firm is more reputable in general. However, I barely know anyone in that city. Pay is similar but COL is lower in the second option city. Curious on peoples thoughts on this and would appreciate advice from those who may have had similar situations. 

3 Comments
 
Most Helpful

Voluptatum dolore asperiores dolorum recusandae quia. Unde ea optio voluptas a voluptatem cumque. Dolor recusandae ea ut totam sed qui ipsam magnam. Quaerat assumenda et fugit aut soluta.

Career Advancement Opportunities

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.9%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 98.9%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (57) $264
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (28) $184
  • Intern/Summer Associate (16) $161
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (76) $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

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...”