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Can anyone comment on cultural differences between Cleary and STB (in NYC)? I get the sense that STB is somewhat fratty, whereas Cleary is not. But basically what's important to me re: firm culture is that I end up in a place where screaming/yelling is not the norm, where I would like my colleagues but where fun is not forced, and where your life outside of work is somewhat respected. If anyone could comment on the culture of these two firms, I'd appreciate it.

Not sure about culture but Have you gotten Cleary offer? Was just wondering the timeline from Cb to offer? Thanks

Anonymous User wrote:Not sure about culture but Have you gotten Cleary offer? Was just wondering the timeline from Cb to offer? Thanks

Yes. Had my CB on a Friday and offer extended following Tuesday.

Anonymous User wrote:where your life outside of work is somewhat respected.

Why you be going into biglaw if this is what you want? Much less a V10 or whatever.

both places are similar and big enough that you shouldn't factor in culture. Fyi - STB is not fratty at all and I haven't encountered a screamer nor have I heard they exist. You will not get along with everyone but that's life (I do get along with everyone I've work with except one person).

More important that culture at this point is practice areas, staffing system and location.

- STB associate

Both are considered nice firms to work at, comparatively speaking. I'd put some thought into what type of corporate work interests you most. Simpson definitely has some strengths in private equity transactions and real estate that Cleary does not share; Cleary has the dominant merger review practice and their international groups are generally best regarded.

if you have no practice group preference (and even if you do, as both are basically stellar at everything) go based on whether you would rather work in downtown or midtown. the 20 min difference in commute will have the greatest impact on your quality of life then any other factor here.

Any more culture comparisons ?

What about exit opportunities? I don't think I want to stay at a firm forever. Would love to go in-house at a corporation (v interested in fashion/luxury goods sector) at some point.

Anonymous User wrote:Any more culture comparisons ?

What about exit opportunities? I don't think I want to stay at a firm forever. Would love to go in-house at a corporation (v interested in fashion/luxury goods sector) at some point.

Aside from the sliiiightly different work I would say exit ops are identical.