Company size is still meaningfully correlated with certain facts and so the distinction ahead of time is meaningful despite the large variance within each group

Company size is still meaningfully correlated with certain facts and so the distinction ahead of time is meaningful despite the large variance within each group. In other words, for various reasons (like learning, wearing multiple hats, building up a network, the desire to start a startup) it makes sense to decide ahead of time to work at a startup versus a big company. As long as you work with great people on a mission you are passionate about.