Pros
The culture. Most companies like to say they are transparent for branding purposes, but Bridgewater actually is. While stressful at times for that reason; it was by and large one of the top experiences of my life and has made me a better, sharper professional, and even wife (according to my husband). Bridgewater is a bastion of logic so coworkers can't get away with saying or doing crazy things without repercussions. Similarly, if someone isn't pulling their weight they are called out on it. As a result, I found that I carried substantially less resentment while at Bridgewater as compared with other companies due to being encouraged to get disagreements in the open and solve them. I learned more about myself here faster than I would have anywhere else. My only regret is that I didn't go to Bridgewater earlier in my career, and that I didn't stay longer. Additionally, during my time there I felt I was surrounded by the smartest people I have ever worked with in my life, and was truly supported by the internal community. BW also has one of the best alumni networks I know. I could not recommend this more to those who are up for the culture - it is worth every minute. P.S. The benefits here are off the chain - fully paid medical, etc.
Cons
The culture here comes with a downside and that is the truth. Do not come here if you are an overly sensitive person, or if you can't take direct feedback. Additionally, in the process of receiving that feedback get ready for some rough days ahead. They compensate their staff excellently, and with that compensation expect only the best. The only office is in Westport, CT so you need to either move there or get ready for a long commute from NYC. Most colleagues I know, especially the NYC ones, stayed overnight at a hotel nearby several days a week.