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Interested in the PE work at both firms. Somewhat interested in Ropes' funds work and Goodwin's emerging companies work. Really like the people at both firms. I'm leaning Goodwin people-wise, but it's basically a wash.

Hoping to stick it out to Counsel/Partner at either place, but since that's statistically unlikely, exit options are certainly a factor. Prestige is relatively unimportant except to the extent it affects exit options.

These offices seem pretty similar, so comments highlighting notable differences are particularly welcome.

Thanks!

In terms of practice areas, I think you have it pretty much figured out. Ropes will have more mega PE work from Bain, Goodwin will do more middle market work. Ropes will do more fund formation work and Goodwin will do more emerging company work (and some on the fund side work, but more investments than fund formation). Both will also do some financial institution and debt finance work. If you have practice area preferences between those, that might be the way to pick, otherwise probably go on fit. Ropes is probably more established in NYC right now, though Goodwin is growing, to the extent that matters. Both are predominately Boston firms that are mature in their home market and looking to NYC as a place to grow.

Thanks to the commenter who weighed in. Any other perspectives on this?