50k is pretty low--I should have used a better number. Probably more like ~200k in equity. From a pure wealth maximization standpoint, you should never work at

50k is pretty low--I should have used a better number. Probably more like ~200k in equity. From a pure wealth maximization standpoint, you should never work at an early stage start-up. The company will probably fail, and your equity won't be worth squat. A couple reasons you would consider that deal: 1. Hopefully within 18 months you raise a sizable round and get bumped up closer to market rate. 2. In a year, thanks to your hard effort, your equity is increasing in value, in sizable amounts.