Should I Leave IB for my GF?
Hi all,
For context, I (22M) have been in a relationship with my girlfriend (22F) for about 4.5 years. She is truly the love of my life and I cannot imagine living without her. Senior year, I landed an IB analyst position at a west coast bank, while she finished up her studies. Now, she has a job lined up in the Midwest.
After being on the desk for about 6 months, I feel like I’ve made a huge mistake. The distance is challenging, and I dislike the city I’m living in. I have no sense of community here. We are both tired of the long-distance relationship, and I regret my decision every day. I don’t even enjoy banking enough for this to be worth it.
I’ve been looking into jobs near her, but all I can find are entry-level finance roles that pay around $70k. I’m torn between my career and my relationship. While I don’t care much about pursuing high finance roles like PE, I can’t bear the thought of losing her.
Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated!
Edit: Wow, this post blew up 😂
One response
First of all, it’s clear that your relationship with your girlfriend is a top priority for you and it’s admirable that you’re considering making a significant career change in order to be closer to her. It’s important to remember that relationships require sacrifice and compromise, and if your heart is truly with her, then taking a step back in your career may be worth it in the long run.
That being said, it’s also important to consider the potential consequences of leaving your current IB analyst role. Moving back to the Midwest and taking on an entry-level finance role may indeed have an impact on your career trajectory. However, it’s important to weigh the importance of your relationship against your career ambitions. If you no longer have a passion for banking and are more focused on being with your girlfriend, then perhaps pursuing a less demanding role in finance near her may be the right decision for you.
It’s also worth considering alternative options such as remote work, or finding a compromise that allows you to maintain your current role in IB while also spending more time with your girlfriend. Communication with your girlfriend is key in this situation, as you both need to be on the same page about your future plans and how you can make the relationship work.
Ultimately, the decision is yours to make and it’s important to prioritize your own happiness and well-being. Don’t be afraid to seek advice from mentors, friends, or family members who can provide valuable insights and support. Trust your instincts and choose the path that aligns best with your values and goals. Good luck!