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Vault Message Board: Strategy Consulting

Topic Name: Experienced Advice on Entering Industry
Message Name: I feel your pain...
Date Posted: 04/14/2000
In Reply To: Two years ago, I received my MBA from UCONN's evening program in Stamford, CT. It's a nationally accredited program that attracts driven, intelligent people. I applied to several top strategy consulting firms last fall, but only got initial interest from one of them. I believe my biggest weakness is that none of the firms recruit from UCONN. I have 10+ years experience in product design engineering and believe my transferable skills (customer problem solving, quantitative, analytical & project management) make me an excellent candidate for a consultant position. What advice do you have for me for a successful entry into this field?
Message: I also have an MBA from a non-label (fully accredited, HBS cases, etc., etc.) program. In addition, I have experience in Business Development and Pharmaceutical Science (PhD level). During my MBA job search, I received phone interviews from two seperate "label" firms. My MBA class was full of unbeleivably bright people with impressive backgrounds in engineering, science, project management, etc. But, the reality of the matter is that most of these firms stick to tried and true schools because it reduces their risk of hiring a dud. In a sense, I can't blame them, but it's an unfortunate reality of this crazy industry in which we work. My advice is to explore smaller, perhaps less prestigious consultancies. They may not grab as much attention on a resume, but the work may be just as challenging and rewarding. Given what you've described, I'm sure you would make a very good consultant.

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