Hello Everyone, New to WSO

Hello Everyone! I am an avid reader of WSO. I wanted to make this post to introduce myself and have a few questions regarding life in investment banking vs. accounting, and the roles regarding startups or corporate finance (exit opportunities).

I'm going to attend a non-target school (CSU San Marcos) for their Finance program. I spoke to a Hedge Fund today and the lady there mentioned that an internship *may* be possible once I am fully accepted in. I am also meeting with a PE firm on Thursday about possible work exposure in mortgage loans with another company that works under them.

I am 28 years old (later bloomer), with extensive tech background experience working for Qualcomm and a variety of other companies. I was originally a Computer Science major, but having worked with a lot of engineers (they hit the ceiling fast) it is hard/competitive for these guys to move up the ladder, and with the ridiculous work hours they pull (anywhere between 12-20 hours per day based on projects), I'd rather go for the bull and make my mark.

Has anyone worked for a startup with a finance background? How is it different traditionally?

I have heard that corporate finance is also a great alternative to IB, but is the compensation the same?

Thanks!