Pros
Smart coworkers and occasional interesting projects. The clients were generally impressive, and I gained valuable exposure to the investment industry and alternative data. Overall, it's a decent place to build experience and learn the basics early in your career.
Cons
Pay and benefits were weak relative to the hours worked. Much of the work involved basic data visualization rather than meaningful analysis or strategic problem solving. I also struggled to see a clear competitive advantage for the firm, especially as AI continues to automate much of this type of work. My experience with management was poor. Communication and mentorship were limited, feedback was often generic, and employees were expected to figure things out on their own. While independence can be valuable, support was lacking when it was needed most. The high turnover among senior staff and leadership was another red flag. Many experienced employees left during my time there, raising concerns about the firm's direction and long-term stability. Despite the NYC office being relatively small, internal politics seemed to play an outsized role in decision-making and career progression. The environment often felt unprofessional, and advancement appeared to depend more on relationships and internal dynamics than merit or performance. As a result, I did not feel comfortable sharing candid feedback or differing opinions with leadership.