Natashya
Business Analyst
I graduated with my H.B.A. (honours business administration) from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario and joined McKinsey after completing a microfinance internship in India. As I reflect on the past two years, I am happy about the deep friendships I’ve formed and the ease with which I was able to make my passions in the social sector the focus of my work.
The transition from school to McKinsey was an easy one. I was surrounded by a class of fun, supportive, and like-minded friends and have not stopped learning.
McKinsey creates an environment for success
Upon joining McKinsey, I worried about the infamous “up or out” philosophy and wondered exactly what it would take to make the cut. In my first week, my anxiety dissipated as I quickly became friends with my class of business analysts and associates and underwent introductory training. The support and coaching from my colleagues and the seminars, online courses, and off-site training sessions provide ample opportunity for success within the firm.
My colleagues are my friends
One of the most rewarding aspects of working at McKinsey is the team. Working with highly motivated individuals on a challenging problem in a noncompetitive environment energizes me every single day. Outside of work, my teams and I have camped in Muskoka, shopped in Hong Kong, visited a camel fair in India, and celebrated the New Year in Sri Lanka. The diverse backgrounds, interests, and personal achievements of my colleagues make for great conversation and also inspire me to do more at work and in life.
I’ve charted my own course
The diversity of work at McKinsey enables me to pursue the industries, geographies, and topics that interest me the most. Since high school, I have wanted to live and work in India. At McKinsey, not only did I get the opportunity to do just that, I also spent eight months helping create a low-cost health care platform for rural populations. In my third year, I am part of the social sector fellowship, which will allow me to work exclusively on studies involving economic development, health care, education, and philanthropy around the world.
Achieving more than I thought possible
On the second day of my first study, I was sitting in the office with the CEO of a major high-tech income trust discussing issues that were critical to his business. I was astounded at the immediacy of the trust and responsibility that I was given. As I became more comfortable in my role as a business analyst, I enjoyed the mentorship and coaching opportunities, both formally on my teams and informally with the new class of business analysts, that allowed me to help make others’ transitions into the firm successful.