1. Easier to find a job while employed. Can easily network within the company (you have access to the directory). Could also head to b-school after a year or two

Continue to look until you have to decide on your offer, if no solid leads then take it. Network while working, consider taking the CFA if it fits into your goals, keep applying to openings you see. Also do your job well so you'll have someone on your side.

Take the offer, work hard, opportunities to lateral will come up sooner or later if you stay on it, and have a long term perspective. The only thing that will hold you back is a negative attitude and thinking this is the end of world (i.e. you're not in a dismal position ... you got an offer at a big bank).

I'm going to be starting my analyst stint this summer and I'm 2.5 years out of undergrad and I couldn't care less that I took the long route because I kept working at it and it all worked out.

Take the offer. You can always keep looking after that. But at least you will have a source of income + work experience, which can help you with whatever job you really want.

Thanks for the tips, fellow monkeys. SB'd to all.

I have mostly FO internship experience under my belt, but do I just downplay my impending MO position while looking around? I've read on here that it's not wise to leave a FT job quickly (red flag to industry people).

Bump for further recommendations. I've been talking to bankers, nothing in the pipeline.

Thanks, all.

Wth is a semi-BB? You kids and your need to validate your choices by assumed prestige are absurd...

xoxo

You got to school in NYC (regardless of whether its target or not), and have a solid GPA but still couldn't get an offer from neither a boutique nor F500???? You seriously need to find a new networking strategy. What you're doing is obviously not working.

Probably like WF or something? OP, one option to consider is to accept the offer, use the lower hours to network/interview prep, and apply for an MSF that starts in fall 2014. By then you'll be fully prepped for everything.

Bump again for extra advice.

Was in a similar situation as you. I'd suggest taking your offer, keep networking and pounding the pavement. While also doing that, start getting ready to apply for a MSF, you should be able to get into some good programs given your background + 1 year of BB MO. This will give you a mini-reset and another shot at recruiting.

^ Thanks for the advice.

Any more perspectives would be greatly appreciated.

What kind of MO?

Market risk? Trade support?

Hmm, tough spot. Keep pushing until you can get something relevant, but I'd honestly be wary of unpaid internships at boutiques.