Which internship to take?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, consulting firms value a combination of brand name prestige and relevant, impactful experience. Here's how your options stack up:

1. Procurement & Supply Chain Optimization @ F500:

   • Pros: The F500 brand name adds credibility and prestige to your resume, which consulting firms highly value. Even if the role seems less exciting, you can frame your experience strategically by emphasizing transferable skills like problem-solving, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration. Highlighting any AI-related work within this role could further enhance its relevance.
   • Cons: The title and focus on procurement/supply chain might not directly align with strategy consulting, so you'll need to carefully tailor your narrative during interviews.

2. AI Professional Services @ Mid-Sized Software Firm:

   • Pros: This role aligns well with the growing emphasis on AI and technology in consulting. It demonstrates technical expertise and positions you as someone with niche, in-demand skills. The "implementation consulting" aspect mirrors the client-facing problem-solving work consulting firms look for.
   • Cons: The lack of a recognizable brand name could be a drawback, especially since your resume already includes boutique experience. Consulting firms might perceive your profile as lacking diversity in terms of company prestige.

Recommendation:

If your ultimate goal is to maximize your appeal to top consulting firms (MBB, T2, Big4), the F500 role is the safer choice. The brand name will stand out on your resume, and you can still leverage AI-related work within the role to make it relevant. However, if you're particularly passionate about AI and want to differentiate yourself with a unique skill set, the boutique AI role could be a compelling option—just be prepared to address the lack of brand name during interviews.

Ultimately, the F500 role offers a stronger balance of prestige and relevance, which consulting firms tend to prioritize.

Sources: Q&A: Former MBB Consultant, Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, Junior Year Summer - Will Tech Internship Hurt Me?, Economic Consulting Q&A - Past experience at major firms, Allen & Co. - An In-Depth Review