Can I even make it

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:

Current Situation and Goals

• School and GPA: Being from a non-target business school with a GPA of 2.5/4.0 is challenging, but not insurmountable. Consulting firms do look at GPA, but they also value experience and skills.
• Gap Year: Your gap year due to family health obligations is understandable and can be framed positively as a period of personal growth and responsibility.

Experience

• Internships: Your internships in Korea, especially with reputable firms like Samsung Electronics and PwC Korea, are valuable. Highlight the skills and experiences gained, particularly in data-heavy operations projects.
• CFA Level 1: Sitting for the CFA Level 1 exam is a good move to bolster your finance knowledge and compensate for your GPA.

Goals

• Consulting/IB Summer Internship: Aiming for a consulting or investment banking internship is ambitious but achievable with the right strategy.

What to Expect and How to Break the Odds

1. Networking:

   • Start networking with alumni from your school who are in consulting or investment banking. Use LinkedIn and school resources to connect.
   • Attend industry events, firm presentations, and career fairs to meet professionals and learn more about the industry.

2. Skill Development:

   • Focus on developing consulting-specific skills such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication.
   • Familiarize yourself with frameworks like MECE (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) and practice case interviews.

3. Application Strategy:

   • Cast a wide net. Apply to a range of firms, including Big 4 (B4), Tier 2 (T2), and MBB (McKinsey, BCG, Bain). Even if MBB seems like a long shot, applying can provide valuable experience.
   • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Emphasize your internships and the CFA exam.

4. Interview Preparation:

   • Practice case interviews extensively. Use resources like the WSO Consulting Interview Prep to get familiar with different types of cases.
   • Prepare for behavioral interviews by reflecting on your experiences and how they demonstrate your skills and qualities.

Additional Tips

• Reasonable Expectations: Understand that consulting recruitment is highly competitive. Even Big 4 Strategy shops take less than 20% of applicants at their top targets.
• Unique Selling Points: Avoid over-casing and losing what makes you unique. Be authentic and let your unique experiences and perspectives shine through in interviews.

Conclusion

While your GPA and non-target school background present challenges, your internships, CFA pursuit, and proactive approach can help you stand out. Focus on networking, skill development, and thorough preparation to improve your chances of landing a consulting or IB internship.

For more detailed advice and resources, you can explore the following threads on WSO: - https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/consulting/qa-i-work-at-strategy-…</a">Q&A: I Work at Strategy&. Consulting - https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/consulting/5-things-i-wish-i-knew…</a">5 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Consulting - https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/consulting/case-study-interview-f…</a">Case Study Interview for MBB Consulting - 24 of My Best Tips on How to Get In

Good luck!

Sources: What should I do as an undergrad if I want to work for Mckinsey?, Q&A: 5 Things you can do to help convert your internship to an offer in Consulting, Q&amp;A: I Work at Strategy&amp;. Consulting, Why Consulting - Answering the Interview Question, What did you wish you knew when entering consulting recruitment?