The small size of the firm, combined with its flexibility and engaged leadership, result in tons of opportunities from the most junior level - with clients, with internal initiatives, or with your own ideas. The culture is incredibly sociable, and people really do live by the "work hard play hard" cliche, but cultivate genuine friendships too. Bi-annual offsites provide global adventures that are rarely offered at other firms. But for me the best part was the emphasis on social responsibility and giving back, which has become increasingly prioritized at the firm.

Like any firm in management consulting, the hours and travel can be brutal. The size of the firm also means that your assignments and schedule are largely driven by the pipeline, with limited flexibility to "choose" your projects. But as you progress in seniority, you begin to have to more control of your time and focus areas.

Culture is increasingly emphasized and prioritized at Applied Value. Due to its size, intensity of the work, and long hours on the road in small teams, "fit" is everything. What that means in practice is that it's not for everyone - for those who are a good match, there tends to be great loyalty and long-lasting allegiance with the firm (evidenced by the strong relationships with AV alumni years after leaving).