Hi,
I’m deciding between another T3 consulting internship at ADL (with a Simon-Kucher offer for next year) and a Series A startup role (~€20–30m funding, founders with MBB background,...) as a Biz Dev / Venture Dev / Founder’s Associate Intern.
My goal is to move into T2 or MBB, and I’d appreciate thoughts on how each option might support that path.
Thanks in advance for any insights.
Hello!
Sounds like some great options to choose from.
Not go to be too the point. But if your goal is to be in consulting (T2 or MBB) then the experience at ADL or SK will be quite relevant to getting into a T2 or MBB.
However, this doesn't mean that doing a start up won't also get you there, but experience at a consulting firm will be quite advantageous when you're looking to switch firms.
Hope that helps!
Hi there,
I am not sure T3 experience will help you that much with T2 or (especially) MBB.
If you can get to know more ex-MBB people in the start up and get them to be happy to invest / help you, that might be a good way to get connected to more current MBB folks who might become potential referral down the road...
Just my 2 cents.
Emily
Hi there,
If your goal is T2 or MBB, another consulting internship at ADL is the more direct and lower-risk path, especially with a Simon-Kucher offer already lined up. It reinforces your consulting profile, builds relevant skills, and keeps your story consistent for recruiting.
A Series A startup role can still be valuable, particularly if the work is strategic and you have close exposure to former MBB founders, but it’s less predictable in how recruiters will view it. You’d need to clearly translate the experience into problem-solving, ownership, and impact.
If you want the safest signal for T2/MBB, choose consulting. If you already have solid consulting credentials and want differentiation, the startup can work, but it requires stronger storytelling.
Best,
Evelina
hey there :)
Both options can work, but given your clear goal of T2 or MBB, the ADL internship is the safer and more direct signal, especially with a Simon Kucher offer already lined up, as it shows consistency and commitment to consulting. The startup role can be a great story if you take real ownership and drive impact, but it is more of a bet and needs to be framed very clearly in interviews. If you want to maximize odds short term, consulting wins, if you want a differentiated angle and are comfortable with some risk, the startup can pay off. Happy to chat more if helpful.
best,
Alessa :)
