Summer Associate

I applied late October and was invited for a first round interview in early November. The first round occurred in mid November and consisted of two back-to-back Zoom interviews. The first one was more behavioral in nature, asking questions such as why economic consulting, why Cornerstone, etc. Then the interviewer focused on my research and the practical implications of it, ending with a case that was not too bad. The second interview almost solely focused on my research and the practical implications of it, ending with a case that was not too bad. Both interviewers were very friendly and easy to talk to. I was notified two business days later that they were moving forward with my application to the second and final round which is a fly out consisting of five interviews and lunch. Everyone was very friendly. Four out of the five interviews were different from the first round in that they weren't really behavioral at all, but rather about my research. Only three of those four had cases which seemed more difficult than the cases in the first round, but as long as you are talking the problem through with them in a logical manner I think that is all they are looking for. The fifth and final interview was entirely behavioral it seemed. I left thinking I had a really good shot and was confident about my chances. However, they informed me about seven business days later that I did not get the position. I was not in the penultimate year of my Ph.D. so I think this may have did me in. So, if you are not either, just be wary that it seems they are really looking for fourth years. One of interviewers in the second round was even surprised when I said I was not a fourth year. Overall, great process and excellent people who are both personable and intelligent.