Choosing Between Boutique IB vs. Corporate Finance for Sophomore Summer Internship

I'm a Sophomore at a Semi-Target School in the Boston Area hoping to break into IB and secure a BB/EB/MM offer for summer 2021. For this upcoming summer, I have 2 options for internships:

  1. Investment Banking Analyst at a small boutique in my hometown (Pros: greater responsibility, more relevant experience, senior partners have BB experience, don't have to pay for housing. Cons: Bank only does deals in one industry, not a structured internship program, working for just above minimum wage)

  2. Corporate Finance at a F500 company in Boston (Pros: greater opportunity to expand network, great brand name, better pay. Cons: work isn't as relevant to the career I want to pursue compared to IB internship)

Obviously I'd be very fortunate to have either of these opportunities, but I would love any advice on which internships would best position myself for IB recruiting in my Junior Year. Thanks in advance to anyone who is willing to provide feedback.

7 Comments
 

Should I take unpaid IB internship if I have no other offers atm? also sophomore

 

Boutique IB especially if the seniors have BB experience. Try to get to know them and see if they could potentially help you by connecting you anyone at their old firms.

 
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