International student doing master's degree in the U.S. trying to break into consulting - any advice?

Dear Michael, 

congratulation for your degree from Columbia University!

Whether or not you decide to do a Master in Management Science and Engineering, if you focus on the following 3 main pillars you would not have problems: 

• Top university/ master background with brilliant grades: Consulting firms are interested in very different profiles both in terms of specialisation [from conventional ones (e.g. economics, engineering) to unconventional ones (e.g., artistic background)] and in term of seniority [from undergraduate/MBA to experienced hire]
• Good and efficient preparation: Consulting firms are interested in candidates with some key skills such as problem solving, clear communication, good presence
• Networking: You should speak with as many people as possible in order to become familiar both with all the tips and tricks and the job itself 

I did a Master in Management and Engineering and I obtained an offer from McKinsey

The most important question to think about is: why are you interested in doing a Master in Management Science and Engineering? Perhaps you think it is the right immediate next step in your career? Do it! 

Finally, try to build your own story and focus on whether it is the right moment for you to search for a consulting job. Then focusing on the 3 pillars and on your own story offers will come!

Do not hesitate to reach out me in case of further questions! 

Good luck!

Matteo

Dear Michael,

do not think too much about the percentage of masters being hired, you are at a great school and this will count. UK would only make sense if you have a work permit already otherwise it would be more difficult to enter. In such a situation, work a lot on your storyline and on expressing your interest for consulting clearly. You have very good chances of getting in.

Hi Michael,

If by “jobs” you mean consulting jobs then that's somewhat right.

Generally, the pathway to consulting would be 1) Straight out of undergrad 2) Straight out of an MBA or 3) After gaining relevant work experience.

That said, you can absolutely get a consulting job post Master's, just the odds will be lower. You'll want to make up for this by 1) Going to a prestigious university 2) Getting Consulting relevant experience 3) Making your resume as strong as possible 4) Networking

It sounds like you have some big decisions ahead of you - I'd recommend not basing it off of a Q&A (though useful) and actually speak with an expert. To start, get a meeting with your undergrad counselor! From there, network with people and ask them hard/personal questions on those calls to figure out what might work best for you.

Good luck!

As for the other similar question you asked, my suggestion is to check with the school career service because this is a question to which most "experts" here cannot answer if not with opinions (while you need facts for such an important decision). 

Besides, do not focus only on chances of landing an offer, think also about what you'll learn.

Good luck.

Hi Michael, 

adding to the views of the other coaches, a Masters degree from Columbia can be a significant asset in Europe but also other regions, provided the grades are strong.

To better assess the odds, it would be good to know target offices - feel free to PM if you'd like to get a specific initial view, based on my experience working for BCG in Europe, the US and other regions.

Regards,

Andi