S14E18: PhD to BCG: Translating an Atypical Background for Consulting (Frank's Story)
Jul 12, 2024
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Frank, a PhD in Clinical Psychology student from Korea, discusses his transition to consulting at BCG. Topics include translating atypical backgrounds for consulting, self-care during preparation, working with expert coaches, calming nerves for interviews, and exploring impact of sleep, alcohol, and caffeine on professionals.
Translating atypical backgrounds to consulting requires consistent narrative and leveraging personal strengths.
To secure a BCG consultant offer, focus on extensive case interview preparation and emphasize self-care.
Deep dives
Palm Tree: The Go-To Firm for M&A Consulting
Palm Tree, a fast-growing M&A consulting firm, is experiencing remarkable growth even amidst global economic challenges. They offer opportunities for individuals from top accounting or advisory firms looking to enter the M&A industry. Interested individuals can apply via the firm's careers page. The firm emphasizes shaping the future of M&A advisory and invites potential candidates to join their successful trajectory.
Frank's Journey: Transitioning to Consulting
Frank, a PhD student in clinical psychology with a background in finance and economics, shares his unique journey to consulting. He highlights the importance of finding a consistent narrative in varied experiences and leveraging personal strengths, such as analytical skills and client interaction abilities. Frank's transition showcases the applicability of diverse backgrounds in consulting, emphasizing the value of unconventional experiences in developing essential consulting skills.
Landing a BCG Offer: Key Action Steps
To secure a BCG consultant offer, Frank focused on three key action steps—practice, self-review, and self-care. He engaged in extensive case interview preparation, including drills to refine his skills. Frank emphasizes the significance of reviewing and internalizing feedback to enhance performance. Furthermore, he underscores the importance of self-care, highlighting the need for adequate rest and physical readiness to excel in high-pressure interview situations.
Frank is a PhD in Clinical Psychology student originally from Korea who decided consulting was the right next step for his career - and landed an incredible BCG Consultant offer.
Today, Frank spills everything on his journey to landing the coveted MBB offer, including:
Keys for translating an atypical background to consulting
The 3 key steps that led to an offer
The importance of taking care of yourself in the prep process
How long it took to be interview-ready
The value of working with an expert coach
How to calm your nerves for interviews
Relevant Links Learn more aboutBlack Belt - limited seats left for the next cohort Next Strategy Sprint project: August 17-23, 2024 - learn more Schedule call with Eden Check out Frank's journal publication:"Sleep, alcohol, and caffeine in financial traders"