Better Move before T-15 MBA

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New answer on May 07, 2021
2 Answers
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Anonymous A asked on May 06, 2021

Hi! I've recently got offered two entry-level positions that I am currently contemplating about and hoped to hear some guidance and advice before making my final choice.
My goal is to move on to a top MBA (M7, T-15) about 5 years later and to possibly make a transition in to MBB or Tier 2 (OW, S&, Big 4) Consulting soon in my career. I've wanted to learn which of these choices would better position me to achieve this goal.

1. Energy, Sustainability Consulting in Tier 3 Firm (Think ZS, Guidehouse, Huron)

2. Strategy, Risk Consulting at Top Insurance Brokerage Firm (Think Marsh, WTW, AON)

I do like the topics of energy and Insurance very much. Energy I think is a topic well-positioned towards the future and Insurance has been a strong sector that also has large potential due to the increasing level of uncertainty within society.

The one concern I have is that, I might be getting too specialized in a certain industry at too early of my career. I'm worried that this might hinder the possibility of getting into a top MBA and transitioning my career in to MBB or Tier 2 consulting within my future.

I'd love to hear any advice regarding the choices I should make and hope you have a great day!

(edited)

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Ian
Expert
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replied on May 06, 2021
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

First, congratulations on both offers! You have a good problem to have.

Now, the first point I would make is: How could you not specialize? Any role you take is technically specializing! Don't get fussed up about this - you need to choose something out of college that will get you experience...the entire point of an MBA/MBB is to then zoom back out.

For reference, I joined an IT Consulting company out of college and specialized immensely. I had no problem getting into the school of my choice! The important thing was I rose up the ranks of my company and got a lot of exposure within my specialization (many clients, projects, industries, cities, etc.)

In terms of the 2 firms, I genuinely think you should pick the one that you feel will mentor/grow you the best? Which seems to have good people? Which has a good boss you'll work under? Which seems to be growing and doing good, high quality work? Pick that one!

All things equal, if it helps, I personally think Energy/Sustainability are fascinating spaces with a lot of current/future demand.

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Clara
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replied on May 07, 2021
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

Congrats on your offers :)

I would go for #2 given your description of what you would like to do in the medium and longer term. BTW, thanks for mentioning it, since many times many people ask similar questions in the chat without really describing what they want to do next, and that is precisely the answer.

In any case, something that I don´t understand is why not (1) doing an MBA before -to accelerate the whole process- and (2) shoot for Consulting in MBB/Tier 2 already.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

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Ian

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#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
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