Man Leaves Six-Figure Wall Street Job to Earn $1,000/Hour as a Remote Tutor
Man Leaves Six-Figure Wall Street Job to Earn $1,000/Hour as a Remote Tutor
Steve Menking transitioned from finance to education, finding purpose and balance in his new career.
Steve Menking seemed to have it all in his early 20s: a six-figure salary as an equities trader at SMB Capital on Wall Street, a promising career trajectory, and financial security. However, shortly after his 25th birthday, Menking faced what he calls a “quarter-life crisis,” feeling disillusioned with the high-stress, corporate lifestyle.
“I watched colleagues my age—or younger—excel in their careers, staying in the office until 1 a.m., but I couldn’t see that as my future,” he shared.
Reflecting on his true passions, Menking realized teaching gave him a sense of purpose. Recalling his experience as a teaching assistant and tutor during college, he decided to leave his lucrative job in 2014 to pursue tutoring full-time.
Building a Thriving Tutoring Career
Starting with online platforms like Wyzant and tutoring agencies, Menking initially charged less than $100 per hour, leveraging his expertise in finance, math, and accounting. By 2017, he joined Forum Education, a New York-based tutoring agency, doubling his income from $95,000 to $200,000 annually.
In 2020, Menking launched Menking Tutoring LLC, offering personalized tutoring, test preparation, and corporate training programs. His clientele includes Ivy League students and professionals seeking career guidance. Today, he earns $1,000 per hour and works 20–25 hours per week remotely from his Connecticut home.
A Balanced and Fulfilling Lifestyle
Menking’s schedule varies with demand. During exam-heavy winter and spring seasons, he works closer to 40 hours a week, while quieter summers allow him to dedicate more time to his wife and three children. Despite occasional challenges, such as late-night emails from stressed students, Menking appreciates the freedom and balance his career provides.
“There’s no substitute for waking up every day knowing you’re serving others in a way that aligns with your unique expertise,” Menking says.
Lessons from His Journey
Menking credits his success to being entrepreneurial, creative, and focused on serving others. His career transition has not only been financially rewarding but also deeply fulfilling. “It’s been better and more fulfilling than I ever could have imagined,” he concludes.
From high-pressure finance to education, Menking’s journey highlights the potential of pursuing passion over prestige and redefining success on one’s own terms.
