What do consulting firms value most when it comes to experiences abroad?

Question

Hey PrepLounge community,

I have some questions related to experience abroad:

Which is the best kind of experience abroad to land a job in the big consulting firms? Internship abroad, semester of university abroad?
Do they also value experience like language courses, voluntary work, work and travel (so more backpacking) or au pair?
Is there a certain minimum of time you should have spent abroad? Like for example does a 2 week language course count at all?
Are there specific countries that like to be seen? Maybe one that stands out?

Answer 1

Consultancies definitely value voluntary/non-profit work as well as creativity / uniqueness. Overall though, I believe you are overthinking this. Most important things that you can impact are (1) school you go to, (2) grades, (3) internships / brand names, (4) leadership experience in student organizations or startup, (5) sporting success. International experience is far far down the line

Answer 2

I think internship abroad is the best option if you can get it. Not only because you can combine both work experience and experience abroad, so you can tick 2 boxes in 1 go ;) , but also you get to know the work culture in another country. This is way different than just doing ERASMUS or something. But each experience has its values, I guess in the end it depends what you want to do and then youll be able to sell it well ;) Don't just do something simply cause it looks good on your record!