For me, becoming a consultant was a natural extension of being at business school, but practical instead of theoretical – a chance to build a broad foundation, find out what interests me and move a rung or two up the career ladder.
Applying to be a summer associate
As a student it wasn’t easy to understand the differences between the big consultancy firms, so I applied to all of them to see which was the best fit. At McKinsey I did a problem-solving test and then a couple of one-to-one interviews discussing business cases with an associate. It was like solving a problem together—more a chat than an interview. For the second round of interviews I was with principals or associate principals. One interview involved role-playing how I would advise a client in a difficult situation. Everyone put me at my ease and I was surprised how relaxed I felt.
The offer of an internship came through a couple of weeks later, along with an offer from another firm. I agonised over the choice, but McKinsey’s reputation, the opportunities for training and development and the fact I have a say in the projects I work on helped me make up my mind. And when I visited the London office, people were as friendly and welcoming as the recruiting team had been.
Learning the ropes
Before starting work on my first project, I did a short course for summer interns. I particularly enjoyed the session on improvisation, taught by a professional stand-up comedian.
In the eight weeks I spent with McKinsey, I was touched by the investment people made in me. My engagement manager had a lot on his plate but always made time to help if I had a problem. Once he spent an hour showing me keyboard shortcuts in Excel when he could easily have told me to look them up on a website. It isn’t just the people you know personally either; there’s a whole network of advice ready to be tapped, which is reassuring when you’re new to everything.
Back in a permanent role
After completing my internship I was offered a permanent job, and now I’ve finished business school I’m back as an associate. Because I already know how things work and what’s expected of me, I’ve been able to hit the ground running.
I don’t know what I’ll be doing three years from now, but I’m happy to play things by ear. Whatever happens, whether I progress in the firm or find opportunities elsewhere, working for McKinsey is a no-regrets move. I’m learning skills I can use in my future career and meeting people that I may work with again one day.