Barclays SA or GS Off-Cycle ?

Hi,

I’m currently in the first year of my master’s and I’ve received two offers, both in London:

- A 2026 Summer Analyst position in Sales & Trading at Barclays  
- A 6-month off-cycle internship in the Fundamental Strategies group at Goldman Sachs  

The Goldman Sachs role would require me to take a gap year between my first and second year.

My long-term goal is to work in trading. The Barclays internship feels like the more direct path, although it carries some risk if I don’t secure a return offer. On the other hand, Goldman Sachs could be a strong boost to my profile, even if the role isn’t strictly trading-focused.

What would you do in my position?

I’d really appreciate any thoughts or advice.

What would you choose ?

Barclays SA
76% (25 votes)
GS OC
24% (8 votes)
Total votes: 33
3 Comments
 

I'm seeing GS through my eyes of a student, where I imagine all doors will open to me in the future if I do 6 months there. But looking at the votes, I might be over valuing GS

 

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