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Really interested in international work and infrastructure deals - Sidley doesn't really do this at all, White & Case does nothing but, yet White & Case is...scary. Go with the better firm for interests, or the better general firm overall?

OP here. Just curious as to why there's a huge break in favor of Sidley. Know that White & Case has had it's problems, but curious if there are specific factors influencing votes.

My opinion is that you should go wherever you can do what interests you. I used to work in a Big4 accounting firm, and before we were hired we all heard about long hours and big egos, basically equating to your description of W&C (that it is scary). However, once I started I found most of the rumors to be unfounded and most likely propagated by a handful of disgruntled employees. Further, during my time there, I found that I much preferred projects doing interesting work even if the team sucked since I found the opposite to be worse. You can learn how to deal with crappy people if you enjoy your work, but uninteresting work is a high hurdle even if you are working with your best friends. If you truly are interested in international work, and if W&C is clearly stronger in that area, you should go there.

On the other hand, if international work is merely a preference, then you are right to consider the personalities and work environment. As usual, it's a balancing test (ugh torts). Good luck in your decision.