S&T Friend is upset about EXIT OPP culture and IB. Is this normal?
About 2 weeks ago my friends and I were having a civil discussion over lunch. One of my friends seemed amicable but when the discussion verged to internships he started to snap as we discussed the "exit opportunities" of Investment Banking. He then proceeded to crash out saying "NO ONE doing IB has FREE WILL". He's entering as a S&T intern to GS/MS/JPM and insisted he's hellbent on "learning from the experience" rather than the exit opportunities.
Are frequent mood shifts expected from friends entering S&T? I'm thinking about what's best to do for my friend and if he needs therapy. Please send any advice.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, mood shifts or strong opinions about career paths, especially in high-stress environments like S&T or IB, are not uncommon. Your friend's reaction might stem from the intense pressure and expectations surrounding these fields. S&T, in particular, is known for its dynamic and fast-paced nature, which can attract individuals with strong personalities or those who value immediate learning and experience over long-term exit opportunities.
It's worth noting that S&T and IB attract different mindsets. S&T often appeals to those who thrive in high-energy, transactional environments, while IB tends to draw individuals focused on structured career progression and exit opportunities. Your friend's frustration might reflect a broader sentiment about the perceived rigidity of IB compared to the more immediate, hands-on learning in S&T.
If you're concerned about your friend's well-being, consider having a supportive conversation. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings, and remind them that it's okay to feel overwhelmed or conflicted. Therapy could be a helpful option if their mood shifts are frequent or affecting their daily life, but sometimes, simply having a trusted friend to talk to can make a big difference.
Sources: Why choose Sales and Trading over Investment Banking?, 2nd Year Analyst Lost at Sea, burnout / moving forward, Sales and trading exit opportunities/pay/etc. (please help!), Exit opps for S&T (More focusing on sales)
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