I'll be graduating college next spring, and I'm trying to decide how to start my career. I've done a lot of big N internships, and feel like I've gotten a feel for what a lot of different tech companies are like. I'm trying to narrow down my options, and am seriously considering either 1) joining a trading firm, 2) accepting an offer from a selective tech company (Databricks, Airtable, Scale AI, etc.), or 3) getting a CS PhD from HYPSM. Unfortunately, I was already rejected from some of the trading firms I wanted (e.g. Jane Street and DE Shaw). Is it worth joining somewhere like Citadel or Jump Trading? I've heard that the culture is worse and the Jump salaries on levels.fyi aren't that high. I know there's still HRT, but it seems like their new grad offers aren't particularly stellar anymore either (still good though). I'm not that thrilled about the RSU policies that many unicorns have currently like Stripe and Databricks, but still open to considering working there. Grad school sounds fun, but I know it's a huge financial opportunity cost. I'd also have to wait until spring to find out if I get into a grad program, meaning I'd either have to turn down all my industry offers or renege after accepting. I'm a frugal person and don't like spending money, but am interested in FIRE. What would you do in my situation? #tech #newgrad #intern
If you couldn’t get into Jane then forget HRT as well to be blunt. Also, get offers first. You’re wasting time speculating.
I see your point, but I already have an interview with HRT and a unicorn return offer.
Working at pre ipo unicorns is often less glamorous than you think. Definitely learn a lot though
Could you elaborate? WLB is not a concern
I've worked for some of the names you've mentioned. My advice to you is: apply for the jobs, as you have nothing to lose! Apply to grad school also, as you have nothing to lose! Then once you get your acceptances, you can choose who's giving you the best deal. Sometimes "life" decides where you'll end up based upon what doors open and what doors close. Best wishes to your success!
A top 10 PhD program beats any industry offer in terms of self-fulfillment. You can always drop out and go for FIRE if you don't like it.
Could you elaborate? I'm in a somewhat similar position.
Your first few years out of school will likely determine your career so choose an industry you see yourself staying in long term. I would forget about grad school for now. Get some real life experience first, so that you become a valuable hire and then decide whether you even need it. Most people do not. And I would start at a large firm to build your resume and learn office politics. You can always go to a startup after. It’s harder the other way around. Big name competitive company straight out of school on your resume opens every door later.