Best path to MBB from software engineering?

Question

I graduated from a well-known but not top 10 university with an MS in EE/CS and a 4.0 GPA three years ago and have since been working in a startup. Previously I was not interested in business/consulting but have since realized that this is what I want to going forward, ideally at on of MBB to maximize chances of a good industry exit to some business role in tech afterwards.

Is it at all likely that could lateral to an Analyst role at such a firm or does my work experience disqualify me? I assume Associate is out of the question without MBA/PhD/previous consulting experience? Which of these paths would be the best to take going forward?

Answer 1

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on your career trajectory thus far!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

First of all, based on your brief description of work experience, I do not see any reason why you should not apply to consulting firms.
Moreover, however, I wonder why you want to take the detour of consulting when you are already working in software engineering and want to continue doing so in the future. What is your reasoning?

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 2

I know McKinsey had a path specifically for people with your skillset. It might be a good way to enter the firm and then move to a more traditional consulting role if that is preferred.

Answer 3

I don't see anything in what you describe that in itself would prevent you from getting an interview.

The right role to apply is the analyst role. You would join most likely as a 2nd year analyst (possible but unlikely to join as a 3rd year analyst).

Answer 4

Hi there,

I would directly approach HR with these questions and share your resume.

They will be able to point you in the best possible and most suitable direction. I could envision either:

Consultant track
Expert or support staff track (with a chance of transitioning to the consulting track later on)

Cheers,

Florian