“I found my mentoring session with André very helpful, particularly because I came into it with very little understanding of commercial banking. My background is in life sciences and healthcare, and most of my career exploration so far has focused on consulting. Although I had become interested in commercial banking, I had not previously explored the area in any depth. I therefore needed a clear starting point and an honest conversation about what I should understand before deciding whether to pursue it.
André helped me establish that starting point. The session gave me a clearer way to think about commercial banking, how it differs from consulting, and what I still need to learn. Before the conversation, I was looking at opportunities and wondering whether I should begin applying alongside consulting applications. Afterwards, I understood that I needed to take a step back and make a more informed decision about whether the work genuinely interests me.
One of the most valuable aspects of the session was how it helped me recognise the gaps in my current understanding. I knew that I was new to banking, but I did not necessarily know which questions I needed to answer for myself. André’s guidance helped me think more clearly about where I am now, what I am missing, and what I should begin doing next. Having that direction was useful because it made the process feel more manageable. Rather than treating banking as a broad and unfamiliar industry, I now have a clearer starting point for learning about it.
A particularly helpful message was that I should first develop a better understanding of commercial banking and assess whether I actually like the work. I took away a sensible sequence: understand the area, decide whether it appeals to me, and then, if it does, commit to learning and preparing for applications. If I discover that the work does not suit my interests, I should be willing to recognise that and focus my efforts elsewhere. That advice sounds straightforward, but it was an important perspective for me at this stage.
The conversation made me realise that I should not rush into applying for commercial banking roles simply because I have found programmes that look interesting. Before the session, I was at risk of moving too quickly from curiosity to applications without having a strong enough understanding of the career itself. André helped me see the value of being more deliberate. I would rather make a considered application based on a genuine interest in the work than spend time applying to positions I cannot yet explain my motivation for pursuing.
Another important takeaway was recognising how substantial the differences between banking and consulting can be. Because consulting has been my main focus, it had become my reference point when thinking about other careers. The session helped me realise that I cannot assume banking will involve similar work, suit the same preferences, or require exactly the same preparation. I need to understand banking on its own terms rather than view it mainly as another option alongside consulting.
I also appreciated that the session was useful even though I did not finish it with a final career decision. At this exploratory stage, greater clarity about what I do not yet know is meaningful progress. I now feel better equipped to evaluate my interest, identify what I need to learn, and decide whether commercial banking deserves a more focused place in my career plans.
Overall, André was very helpful, and the session met an important need for me as someone starting with limited knowledge of the field. Its greatest value was giving me direction and encouraging a more thoughtful approach to my next steps. I left with a clearer understanding of my knowledge gaps, a more realistic perspective on the difference between banking and consulting, and a better sense of how to move forward before committing to applications.”
Look at your boss's boss and consider whether you would like to be in his/her shoes.
I worked in tech consulting, didn't like the prospects, and got out.
Ah. I'll check it out. Why didn't you like the prospects of tech consulting? If I decide to leave the field are the skills fairly transferable elsewhere?
Grant Thornton Advisory (Originally Posted: 10/13/2012)
I just got a call back from GT for their Business Advisory Services Associate position but I don't know too much about GT or this job position exactly. Could anyone chime in with their knowledge? Any help would be much appreciated.
Thanks!
Is it business valuations?
I don't believe it is? Unless it is rolled up into this field?
Could you provide more details? I recently had an interview for PwC's Consulting and Deals and they might be similar.
To be honest, I don't have much detail and am having trouble digging up info on peoples experiences with GT's BAS program. GT didn't even come to campus so I didn't have the opportunity to meet with them. The listing was posted on our career website so I just applied.
I'm guessing though that new hires will be placed into various service lines depending on interest/fit
Yep that could be the case. Just be prepared and do research on their website, make sure you understand the different services they offer and the culture/values of GT. The first interview will probably be quite easy, just a lot of fit/behavioural questions with one of the managers. The second/third interviews will be with the senior managers or partners and that's where they'll start asking you the more complex questions. Good luck!
Also curious about GT's BAS program. Keep us posted. Does anyone else have any experience with it?
Yeah, get the behavioural questions down and know a lot about the company. I think for interviews its always good to know about the company and what you're getting into, they'll be impressed with the research you do.
Thanks for all the input, will report back after the interview
Anyone have any experience or advice with GT Advisory? Any update?
GT BAS is essentially internal audit work. Each office has a different sector, but I think the NYC and Chicago offices might have some actual consulting projects but a majority is internal auditing.
No personal experience, but know a girl in GT BAS. It's essentially IT project work, at least for her. Fancy name, but it's not my cup of tea. Again, I don't work in BAS, this based on her description of the work she does.
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