Underestimated the importance of School?
I am a current freshman at a non-target school, who is interested in getting a job in consulting upon graduation. When I selected colleges, my choice was made on how much I liked the school and how I perceived their academics rather than their consulting placement. I felt my school was more inexpensive had better well rounded academic's instead of just a strong business program. I have no interest in transferring, but feel pretty discouraged looking at my prospects out of this school(Big ten) then I did some of my other options(Stern, Umich non-Ross, Kelley). Is it still worth the effort recruiting for consulting out of a non-target UG or should I focus my career elsewhere?
Ah, the classic tale of the underdog from a non-target school! Fear not, my friend, because while the path may be a bit more like a jungle gym than a ladder, it's still very much climbable. Here's the lowdown:
Know Your Story: You chose your school for its well-rounded academics and affordability, which is a smart move. This narrative can be part of your unique selling proposition. Consultants love a good story, and yours is about making strategic life choices, which is a valuable consulting skill.
Networking is Key: Based on the most helpful WSO content, networking is your golden ticket. You've got to hustle harder than Leo in 'The Wolf of Wall Street'—without the illegal stuff, of course. Reach out to alumni, attend industry events, and don't shy away from cold emailing. It's all about who you know, and who knows you.
Leverage Resources: WSO, ManagementConsulted, Case in Point, and Victory Cheng's Case Interview Secrets are your best friends. They're like the Yoda to your Luke Skywalker, guiding you through the consulting galaxy.
Cast a Wide Net: Apply to both large firms and boutiques. Sometimes the smaller players will appreciate your moxie more than the big kahunas.
Skill Up: You're at a Big Ten school, which is nothing to sneeze at. Get involved in clubs, take leadership roles, and maybe even start a consulting club if there isn't one. Show initiative—it's like catnip for recruiters.
Plan for the Long Game: If consulting is the dream, then keep your eyes on the prize. It might mean an MBA down the road or starting in a related field and pivoting later.
Stay Positive: It's not all doom and gloom. Many have walked this path and succeeded. You're not the first, and you won't be the last.
So, is it worth it? Absolutely. It's not just about where you start; it's about where you finish. And remember, every consultant loves a good challenge—consider this your first case.
Sources: Non-target to non-MBB consulting -Q&A, Q&A: Nontarget school->Big 4 Consulting/M&A-> VP of Strategy at Series B startup., What are the Strongest Non-Target Schools for Undergrad Recruitment?, Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Q&A: Non-Target School to Portfolio Manager at a Top Hedge Fund – 6 Years Out of Undergrad
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