Career Strategy for MBB, Engineering Grad, Low GPA (3.2)

Hi everyone,

Trying to plan and gain insight on the next best possible steps to get into MBB. Finishing up my engineering undergrad with 3.2 GPA, and my first two years are killing me (2.7 vs 3.8). I have intern experience at Shell (oil and gas) and Pratt & Whitney (aerospace), but MBB is still quite far away. Realistically, it will take at least 2 years of grinding and intense hustle to break in. Should I do a master's for a fresh start and, if yes, in what, or go the experienced hired route? I'm leaning towards a master's in statistics for next fall...

Cheers

3 Comments
 
Best Response

If its your GPA that is keeping you from getting interviews at MBB, then I would think about a couple of things long term. First, look at getting a brand name engineering job in industry. You mentioned Shell and Pratt & Whitney internships, so I assume you can get an engineering gig at a well respected company that MBB recruiters will recognize (both Shell and P&W fit that category). So, first focus on getting a full time job in that space out of undergrad.

Once you've got that job you can start thinking about lateraling in as an experienced hire but it will be tough. Networking can certainly help but firms will be biased a bit since they get so many experienced hire applications. I don't really see a MS in Stats helping since MBB isn't going to be concerned about your ability to do math-you're an engineer after all.

What you are in a good position to do is get a top-tier MBA and transition that way. Assuming you can pull of the GMAT, M7 schools admit tons of engineers with 3.2 GPAs and less who have worked at brand name firms. MBB is by no means guaranteed at an M7 school, but it gives you a big leg up and no one will care about your undergrad GPA at that point.

MBB is super tough out of undergrad, so I wouldn't let a lack of interview dissuade you at this point, may just need to start thinking longer term.

 

Wow amazing, thanks for the input! I never really gave much thought to the M7 route actually. Would you say there's anything else which is crucial to get into the M7's then at this point (besides 700+ GMAT and brand name in engineering). CFA designation, volunteering, etc?

 

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