Valuation Shop vs GT Advisory
Coming from a semi-target school is hard in these times. F500/IBD/Consulting (non-MBB) recruit at our school with the intention to hire only 1 or 2 analysts/associates. The only other option (in the corporate path)is accounting (either Big 4 or mid-tier) and even that is completely swamped with over qualified financiers. Overall, it would be fair to call us the crappiest of the best target schools on the West Coast.
I am in need of some advice regarding a couple of offers I received. I have had prior internships in F500 corporate strategy as well as boutique IBD experience. This recruiting climate however has still somehow managed to destroy my chances of landing a position in high finance or consulting. Nonetheless, I received an offer from two accounting firms (both non Big 4). One offer is in the valuation group (smaller firm) and the other is in a "general advisory" function (Grant Thornton). I will be rotating between the IA and IT groups. Does name really matter a lot for future job search?
My goal is to somehow lateral back in to IBD or IMD or Corp Dev or Corp Strat. Try any of those functions out full time before returning to business school (hopefully top 10). I want to know which option is the best to position myself for these exit opps, especially in these tough times. I could also test for my CFA or CPA if that helps to get the exit opps or get into a top b school.
Please Advise!