McKinsey Q&A: Emily

Meet Emily, an engagement manager in Philadelphia. She joined McKinsey for the challenges, continuous learning, people and opportunities to make a difference in healthcare. She’s loves the work, camaraderie and support (especially as she and wife Ginny, who also works at McKinsey, are getting used to being the parents of newborn twins).

Interviewer: Why did you apply to McKinsey?

Emily: I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after business school. I wanted to be challenged and to continue learning. I wanted to work with people I liked and make a meaningful difference in healthcare. My wife, Ginny, worked at McKinsey, so I had a good sense of the firm. I really enjoyed spending time with her colleagues so McKinsey seemed to provide everything I sought. It’s lived up to my expectations.

Interviewer: What do you wish you knew when you joined?

Emily: Everyone says you can “make your own McKinsey” – it’s really true. Talk to as many people as you can, figure out what you want to do, share your dream with others, and they will help you make it happen.

Interviewer: What is your favorite thing about McKinsey?

Emily: I love the camaraderie of the Philadelphia office. One of my favorite activities is Friday wine time – an informal activity where someone opens a few bottles of wine, everyone brings their own glass, and we catch up with each other about the week. We often end up hanging out for the rest of the evening – grabbing dinner or going to a movie. Going into the office each Friday always feels like coming home.

Interviewer: What have you worked on so far?

Emily: My passion is improving healthcare. My favorite projects have been helping a large hospital system better manage diabetes and working with a managed care company to design and launch programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. My work is lot of fun and very rewarding.

Interviewer: What question are you most frequently asked about McKinsey?

Emily: My friends often ask what my favorite city is. It changes – Portland has probably been my favorite so far. While on an engagement there, I spent a lot of time with my best friend from high school and kombucha is now permanently part of my diet. I love that I get to see a lot of cities I wouldn’t have visited otherwise. Now I know where to get a good cup of coffee in every city in which I’ve worked.

Interviewer: What is your best interview tip?

Emily: Know that your interviewers are rooting for you. If you get stuck in the interview don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions or test hypotheses with your interviewer. We really want you to do your best.

Interviewer: What are you most passionate about outside of work?

Emily: Spending time with my wife and our newborn twins.

Never miss another post

Receive new stories once a week directly in your inbox