Strat as entry point for PhD

[new]

I have a good sense of what the strat positions at GS entails but how is it viewed as an entry point into finance as compared to other positions with more fundamental (i.e. lower-level) modeling and C++ development?

From what I have gathered, the strat positions are interesting, intense and offer great opportunities to interact with a broad spectrum of professionals. In this regard it seems to be an ideal entry point. But am I missing any of the down sides? (I'm aware of the hours, though maybe I am not so aware of the hours with other groups and other quant positions.) Is there some point after which doors start to close to other quant career paths?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Ken Abbott]

strat as entry point

It depends on what you want to do. Coming in as a strat may brand you as a quant and make you less marketable for some positions. It will allow you to see from a lot of different angles.