Power of an MD's referral

Hi WSO, I am currently job searching for a management consulting job after I graduate undergrad next May. I am close friends with an MD at one of the big four, and he has said numerous times he would help me get a job at his firm. However, all the ideal job postings ( Strategy and ops and TAS ) require GPA'S of 3.5 or greater. I do not have that, i am on the lower side of a 3.1-3.2. Even with that low GPA, do you think the MD's help will be enough to help me land an interview/job? Thanks for any help.

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Yeah, if he likes you enough. I think if he's explicitly expressed a willingness to help get you a job, it means he likes you and I doubt a below-average GPA would change that significantly. GPA is more of a filter for these firms, it is hardly an end-all-be-all. I'd reach out and ask him personally if he thinks it'll be an issue; just be sure to come off as confident of your ability and have a good reason as to why you didn't do great grades wise and why they should still hire you. Good luck!

 

Job postings are often meant to screen candidates or are posted due to a regulatory or policy requirement to post the job publicly. Very rarely are companies hiring exactly to those postings.

Case in point, my first job after consulting required 10+ years of work experience. I had about 4 when I got the offer.

 

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