How to choose a career path with an unconventional background?
Hi everyone,
I’m finishing my second degree in Economics in Europe and have done internships in banking and insurance, where I worked with financial institutions. I enjoy fast-paced work, solving complex problems under pressure, creating structures and systems to make things work better, and working directly with clients. I’m really interested in understanding how money and companies actually operate, designing processes, and turning analysis into actionable insights. I also speak five languages.
Right now, I’m trying to figure out where to start my career. Internal Audit seems interesting because it gives a broad view of company operations, but I’m also drawn to Business Development and client-focused roles where I can combine strategic thinking with execution. Eventually, I’d like to grow into something more strategic or finance-related, maybe M&A, corporate development, or strategy consulting. I’m not sure MBB or Big4 would take me right now, so I’m considering starting either in a startup where I can take on more responsibility or in a larger, established company.
It’s a bit hard to choose, and the more analysis I do, the less clear it becomes.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can approach choosing a career path with your unconventional background:
Leverage Your Strengths and Interests:
Your enjoyment of fast-paced work, problem-solving, and client interaction aligns well with roles in Business Development, Corporate Strategy, or Corporate Development. These areas often require strategic thinking, execution, and the ability to turn analysis into actionable insights—skills you’ve already demonstrated.
Internal Audit as a Starting Point:
Internal Audit can indeed provide a broad view of company operations and is a common entry point for transitioning into more strategic roles like FP&A, Corporate Finance, or even Corporate Development. However, keep in mind that Internal Audit can sometimes be seen as less dynamic compared to client-facing or strategy-focused roles. If you choose this path, aim to transition after a few years to avoid being pigeonholed.
Startup vs. Established Company:
Breaking into Strategy or Corporate Development:
If MBB or Big 4 feels out of reach right now, consider roles in Corporate Banking, FP&A, or competitive intelligence within a Fortune 500 company. These roles often interact with Corporate Development teams, providing a natural transition point. Networking internally and building a reputation for strategic thinking can help you pivot into Corporate Development or Strategy later.
Your Multilingual Edge:
Speaking five languages is a significant asset, especially for roles involving international clients or cross-border transactions. Highlight this skill when targeting roles in Business Development, Corporate Banking, or M&A, as it can set you apart.
Long-Term Vision:
If your ultimate goal is M&A, Corporate Development, or Strategy Consulting, consider pursuing an MBA down the line. Top business schools value diverse, international experiences, and your background in economics, languages, and internships in banking/insurance could make you a strong candidate.
Suggested Path:
By focusing on roles that align with your strengths and long-term goals, you can create a clear trajectory toward the strategic or finance-related career you aspire to.
Sources: What are the best alternatives of IB (or other high finance)/Consulting if people don't get in?, Corporate Development Manager - Q&A, The Other Road: Corporate Development Associate Fielding Questions, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/corporate/breaking-into-corporate-development-from-non-traditional-backgrounds?customgpt=1, Corporate Development Manager - Q&A
Do Sounds like consulting is more up your alley than banking. Depending on your internships you would absolutely have a chance to get into MBB or B4. Two degrees in econ and speaking five languages makes you more qualified than many people I know who got into MBB out of uni. If you’re able to I would suggest targeting an internship in strat consulting first to maximise your chances.
You’ve got a strong foundation and a clear sense of what drives you. Given your mix of analytical and client-facing interests, I’d lean toward roles that give you both structure and exposure — like strategy, biz / corp dev, or rotational programs in larger firms. Internal Audit can build great fundamentals, but it’s less dynamic. A startup could work too if you want broad responsibility fast. Don’t overthink the first step — focus on where you’ll learn the most and stay close to the kind of work you ultimately want to do.
Ut pariatur aut soluta at. Natus maiores unde dolorem enim aut soluta. Aspernatur voluptatem magni est est ratione veritatis ut et.
Sint voluptatem possimus blanditiis. Maiores assumenda aut explicabo amet molestiae asperiores. Quibusdam ut laudantium ex. Exercitationem ut distinctio id assumenda quia. Quo molestiae nihil laudantium quasi sint soluta. Eligendi ex sapiente et fugit quis voluptatum et vero.
Tempore sint rerum aspernatur tempora sit quos dolores qui. Quibusdam itaque labore reiciendis aliquid praesentium nostrum assumenda.
Deserunt dolores voluptatem quis fugit fuga et nisi. Ratione voluptas aperiam et sit doloremque quasi molestiae quibusdam. Iusto aut corporis ex ratione. Consequatur aliquam quidem deserunt voluptatum aut. Aut et temporibus eius eaque. Totam et et est quaerat. Similique non praesentium veniam non et est.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...