Incoming Cornell freshman—how do i set myself up for success in consulting?

To set yourself up for success in consulting as an incoming Cornell freshman, here’s a roadmap based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Build a Strong Academic Foundation

• GPA Matters: Aim for a high GPA (ideally above 3.7). Consulting firms value academic excellence, so prioritize your coursework and maintain strong grades.
• Relevant Coursework: Pursue classes in economics, statistics, and business-related fields to develop analytical and problem-solving skills. Your business minor will also help.

2. Develop a Standout Resume

• Extracurriculars: Join consulting-related clubs or organizations at Cornell, such as the Cornell Consulting Club or other pre-professional groups. Leadership roles in these clubs will stand out.
• Internships: Start exploring internships early. Even if they’re not consulting-specific, roles in finance, strategy, or research can demonstrate transferable skills.
• Brand Names: If possible, secure internships or experiences with well-known companies or organizations. Brand recognition on your resume can help you get noticed.

3. Network Strategically

• Leverage Alumni: Cornell has a strong alumni network. Use LinkedIn and Cornell’s alumni database to connect with graduates working in consulting or related fields.
• Career Services: Take advantage of Cornell’s career services to attend networking events, workshops, and info sessions hosted by consulting firms.
• Upperclassmen: Build relationships with upperclassmen who have successfully navigated the consulting recruiting process. They can provide insights and even case prep support.

4. Explore and Gain Exposure

• Consulting Projects: Participate in case competitions or consulting projects through student organizations. These experiences will help you understand the consulting landscape and develop relevant skills.
• Explore Other Interests: Since you’re also considering ER and VC, seek internships or projects in these areas to clarify your career goals.

5. Prepare for Recruiting Early

• Case Prep: Start practicing case interviews during your junior year. Quality matters more than quantity, so work with experienced case partners, such as second-year students or alumni who’ve landed MBB offers.
• Behavioral Prep: Develop strong stories for behavioral interviews. Focus on leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving experiences.
• Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your application materials to highlight academic achievements, leadership, and relevant experiences.

6. Stay Informed

• Read Business Journals: Stay updated on industry trends by reading publications like The Wall Street Journal or The Economist. This will help you develop a business mindset.
• Consulting Landscape: Familiarize yourself with the major consulting firms (MBB, Big 4, etc.) and their differences.

7. Long-Term Planning

• Junior Year Internship: Aim for a consulting internship during your junior summer. This is often the most critical step for securing a full-time offer.
• MBA Consideration: If you’re still interested in consulting post-graduation, an MBA from a top program can be a pathway to MBB.

By following this roadmap, you’ll position yourself well for consulting recruitment while keeping your options open for other fields like ER and VC. Good luck at Cornell!

Sources: What should I do as an undergrad if I want to work for Mckinsey?, 2019 APD MBB Full Time Recruiting, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, Consulting Recruiting 2023, Admitted to an M7 next fall, how do I best prepare myself for MBB recruiting now?