| Topic Name: |
technology background->consulting |
| Message Name: |
thanks |
| Date Posted: |
01/19/2003 |
| In Reply To: |
I have a similar background: Top undergrad engineering degree w/ thesis + research. Good scores. Personable (sort of ;-))
I was in consulting for a year, got laid off and recently interviewed with a competitor, which is an offer I will turn down for a manufacturing position I interviewed with (provided I receive an offer).
Consulting is fun when the economy is good, but ultimately you get sidetracked from your original plan (engineering, software dev, etc).
I would say, careerwise, it's better to go directly into industry. If you have the qualities consultants look for in recruiting, you'll shine at an industry position.
Exiting consulting is very, very tough. The projects and roles you get in consulting are dicated almost entirely by whatever the partners have sold. You may end up doing stuff not even remotely related to your background which will hurt you when you leave. (ie, you'll do a strategic goverment initiative rather than learn code).
Bottom line: when you leave consulting you'll be back at "entry level" in the software/engineering field so if you do go for it, get out early rather than later.
Good luck! |
| Message: |
for the good luck!
One note though--ultimately, I don't want to be a software engineer.
From what I've seen, entry-level software engineer positions are a lot more attractive than entry-level consulting positions (at least to me)--better pay, better atmosphere, more flexibility and fewer rigid guidelines, and more intellectual stimulation. However, I'm trying to think long-term.
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