L.A. v. N.Y. for Corporate/M&A Forum

[Anonymous User]

I grew up in L.A. and prefer to return to L.A. when I graduate. I'm most interested in doing Corporate/M&A work. I would consider working in NY, at least for few years, if it would be better for my career in the long-run (exit opportunities, partnership prospects, etc.).

It seems like most of the deals are happening in NY but that L.A. has deal teams that are comprised of less people (1 partner, 1 senior associate and 1 junior associate) which means more early responsibility.

Let's assume that I would have top options in L.A. (Skadden, Latham, GDC, etc.) and pretty good options in N.Y. (perhaps everything but Wachtell/Cravath).

Are there many compelling reasons why I should aim for NY instead of L.A.?

[Anonymous User]

If you have pretty good options in NY, you have to consider the fact that they will always have business for M&A activity. NY has the most dealings activity, period. I would have to imagine that NY will give you exposure to more complex and high stakes deals than L.A. would, so getting that experience could be beneficial, especially when trying to do a lateral back to LA.

Then again, you would be giving up the top options in LA to go to NY only to lateral back to LA after a couple of years (if you know for a fact thats what you want to do) and presumably choosing between the same top options you gave up before...

[Anonymous User]

I'm working at OMM/PH and the M&A/PE team is slammed and exactly what you are talking about. 1 partner and 1 or 2 associates. It's pretty awesome.

[anon34134]

I'm working at OMM/PH and the M&A/PE team is slammed and exactly what you are talking about. 1 partner and 1 or 2 associates. It's pretty awesome.

OP here (on a throwaway account). I'd love to hear more about your typical day, what you like most about the work, and any other insight/advice you have. Please PM me if you have the time!

Bumping for any other input.