not especially true - she's in commercial law theres not really any other opportunities she could step-up to other than US elite firms in London, at which the hours are worse- she's already pretty much at the top- the only doors it opens for her would be 'downwards' from magic circle like silver circle etcMy understanding is that it gives you a leg up in terms of exit opportunities, by having that magic circle name on your CV. The workload and hours are extremely grinding - similar to how many people will start off at Big Four accountancy firms for the first few years and then seek opportunities elsewhere as it opens a lot of doors. Probably applies to investment banking too e.g with those working at Goldman Sachs.