Ask HN: Was I right in my decision to turn down offer from Goldman Sachs?

I think this is the best place to ask this question. I was recently offered a Tech Intern from Goldman. As it was the only good option I had at that time, I decided to go for it. Working there was a great experience and definitely learned a lot about financial markets. My main goal going there was to understand the inner workings of such a big Investment Bank. I grabbed a lot about that.

Working there was good, but throughout my work I had confusion regarding these: 1. People were way too professional. 2. I was tightly following what Goldman had done during recession. I felt it was ethically wrong (watch "Inside Job"). Result, I was not able to feel myself as a part of Company. 3. There were too much restrictions on employees. Surveillances were running on our accounts. Everything was tracked etc. etc.

On other side I must say that their technology was great. The size of data they process everyday is marvelous. But finally, after a lot of thought I rejected the final offer from their side. Right now I am working in a big company, with relatively less compensation. I am happy with my current job.

I still stand on my decision. Just want to know your opinion about the same. Was I too childish raising above questions in my mind?

I think only you can answer that question. Aside from the ethical reasons, at the end of the day, you should take the steps necessary to achieve your 3, 5, 10 year goals. Any company you work for will have pros and cons for you personally, whether other people believe they are childish or not.

What is it you want to do? What do you want to learn while getting paid? What do you need to get you to where you ultimately want to go? It is like when some asks me if one programming language is better than the other - the most honest answer I have seen anyone give to that question is: It depends on what you are trying to do.

If you want to start your own company one day, and don't like things as formal as they are in large companies, I would encourage you to work for a start up or small company. Things will likely be less formal, and you will likely get the opportunity to do a lot more things since in smaller companies everyone usually has to where more than one hat. Plus, its easier to have a big impact.

Just my two cents.

Disclaimer: the following opinion is only my opinion and does not reflect anyone else on HN or the internet in any way shape or form:

I respect that you found yourself unable to accept a job there given your ethical stance.

I cannot put the following sentiment in harsh enough terms: I think the company is full of utter scumbags who should all be in prison or worse.

Good on you.

No offense and I don't know your background or association with Goldmans but this sounds like a kneejerk reaction to populist sentiment.

The existence of practices that goes on at Goldmans and every other IB is a symptom of a deeper underlying problem. You really have to question the foundations of a system that has enabled such institutions to come into play.

"I am happy with my current job." - can't go wrong there!