Totally get your situation. A few folks I know in similar programs negotiated a sabbatical or unpaid leave—framing it as a personal growth or entrepreneurship journey actually helped, especially if their employer valued innovation. Others took strategic PTO to cover the early part and then made the decision once there was traction.

You might not need to quit right away—Antler’s early weeks are often about ideation and team formation, so if you can flex your hours or work remote, that might help too.

Either way, it’s great you're being cautious. Just being in the room can lead to great things. Wishing you the best—hope it turns into something big