Starting my MBB Associate Role in London - Oct 26 vs Jan 27

Question

Dear Community,

I’m due to graduate this June and have accepted an offer to start as an Associate at an MBB firm's London office in January 2027. Earlier start dates are also available (September or October 2026).

My original plan was to take a few months off after graduation to travel across East Asia with friends before starting work. However, recent geopolitical and macroeconomic developments have made me wonder whether that’s the right decision.

I’d really value the community’s perspective: would you recommend taking the break as planned, or starting earlier given the current uncertainty and potential risk to job offers?

Thank you in advance for your advice.

Answer 1

Many congratulations on the offer!

In short my answer is - stick to your original plan because uncertainty can never be solved for.

The risk averse answer would be start ASAP - however, just because you start in September does not mean that you will be free of any negative impacts (if any) from economic fall out. If there is no work to go around and no money coming in start dates are irrelevant

You have earned the right to a later start date, enjoy what you have planned and start when you are ready. Ultimately what matters is coming in fresh and giving 100% to your career.

Best,
Udayan