Hello,
I started my bachelor’s degree later than usual, so I will finish it at the age of 25. After that, I plan to pursue a master’s degree (Master of Finance or Master of Business Analytics) in the United States and graduate around the age of 27. My goal is to start working at an MBB firm after completing my master’s, but I’m quite worried about my age.
Are there any ways to reach a higher position without an MBA, or is it simply unrealistic? I’d really appreciate any advice or recommendations on what I can do now to prepare myself for a more advanced role or to make my experience more relevant.
I should also mention that I plan to work while studying—by the time I finish my master’s, I expect to have around two years of work experience in a consulting-related field (though not in a major firm).
I would be very grateful for your advice. I’m feeling quite anxious about my age and the pressure it creates.
Is it possible to get a higher position in MBB (associate/consultant) without an MBA?
Hi Emanuella, age is a valid concern but I would not worry much about it. I have seen those who perform well go from an entry-level position (say Associate at BCG) to a post-MBA position (Consultant at BCG) in as little as 21 months. I am not sure whether this works differently at US offices though.
I think what would be helpful to know is why you want a more senior position to start with - it looks like a title-oriented goal, which might be fufilled in the way that I have mentioned above. From a pay perspective, consulting will pay better than many industries even at entry level. Finally, you might consider this from a responsibilities perspective - for e.g., are you, at 27, willing to do grind work (cleaning up excels, making the most minor amendments in PPT etc.) that continues even at Consultant level. This is helpful to consider as you think about your fit with the industry and role more broadly.
It is worth adding that depending on the nature of your part-time experience as gauged by consulting firms, they may consider you for a Senior Associate position instead. But not likely if its voluntary work.
Good luck and happy to chat further!
