I'll be finishing a PhD in Comp Sci and have this dilemma.I have what may be a unique opportunity to create a non-finance related startup (good idea and decent funding available).My dilemma is that if the venture does not succeed, say after 4-5 years, I'll be around 35 and it may be difficult to change careers.A safer bet, especially with a wife and kids, would be to directly aim for a career in finance after my PhD.Any opinions on the matter? What opportunities would there be for a 35 year-old phd entrepreneur in banking in case plan A does not work?

you'll know if your startup is a dog within a six months.

a unique opportunity is not the one to be missed

Of the two people I know who are doing best for themselves in therir thirties one did a start up and the other went into interest rate derivatives.What did I do? Well I learnt to surf back hand pretty well.....

QuoteOriginally posted by: pbernsI'll be finishing a PhD in Comp Sci and have this dilemma.I have what may be a unique opportunity to create a non-finance related startup (good idea and decent funding available).My dilemma is that if the venture does not succeed, say after 4-5 years, I'll be around 35 and it may be difficult to change careers.A safer bet, especially with a wife and kids, would be to directly aim for a career in finance after my PhD.Any opinions on the matter? What opportunities would there be for a 35 year-old phd entrepreneur in banking in case plan A does not work?It sounds like your prospects are good either way. And it also sounds like you want to work for the startup.Perhaps you should consider unemplyment insurance. This will give you the freedom to pursue your interests.