Second year corporate associate here. I’ve had a slow year so far, billing approx 80 hours each month in 2026. Other associates in my class year are either super busy or slow.
I’m in M&A but the area seems hot and cold right now. When the work does come in, I’m not the one that gets the good stuff. All the work I’ve gotten either goes nowhere, is basic annoying compliance questions, or goes pencils down.
I’m not a super star by any means, but I meet my deadlines, am responsive, want to learn, care about the work product I produce, am proactive, etc. To me, I’ve done everything I can to show I want to develop but I feel it’s going unrecognized.
I’m getting to my wits end here. Should I leave? Am I being iced out? Or should I just ride this out and get the bag, hoping it’ll improve?
Would appreciate any responses from people who’ve dealt with a similar situation because I’m feeling pretty alone here. Thanks!