I got into the Consulting workshop and investment management workshop programs at my University. Both of them are very competitive, and I cannot believe I got into both of them! :)
Question though! I'm debating whether management consulting or research analyst (buy or sell side) should be my career path. Here are factors I am considering
1) I am a female sophomore with a 3.9 gpa
2) I am an international student
3) I'm introverted, but I think with time I can earn to give presentations.
4) I feel confident and competent enough to handle anything in both areas.
5) I care a lot about a top tier MBA program
6) Exit options would be nice, but not necessary (hopefully I like what I do! :) hahaha, call my naive!)
I have to make a decision buy this Thursday night, so pleaaaaaaaase anything you have or links to current discussions would be helpful (I tried searching through the forums, but couldn't find much that specifically helps me in my situation)
Thanks!
EDIT: Since this got SBed, I'm editing this. Sell-side ER is not for introverts. ER is a sales position, there will be A LOT of interaction internally and externally. Be ready to schmooze your ass off. Even buy-side will require interacting with other people and lots of talking on the phone (though not nearly at the level of sell-side)
Consulting is the one of the best ways to get into a top MBA program, however, going buy-side ER means you may not even have to waste your time on an MBA.
Really it comes down to what you like. If you're more interested in following markets and research, go with ER. I used to be really introverted, now not so much, but ER seems like it could be the right place for someone who isn't naturally outgoing. You don't need an MBA to continue in ER, either, as I mentioned (saves you money, and more importantly, time).
If you want to be involved in problem solving, working with new companies every few months, lots of travel, than go with MC. A lot of consultants do go back for their MBA.
Read the consulting and ER forums for more info. Also check out: //www.wallstreetoasis.com/frequently-asked-questions
^^^ good post.
You just need to ask yourself if you rather a) be researching companies in order to invest in them 2) helping companies improve their strategies and overcome obstacles.
BTW, buy-side ER is better for an introvert than sell-side, at least at the more senior levels. On the sell-side, there is a big component of marketing your research to buy-side shops and getting your name out there. On the buy-side you still need to "sell" your ideas, but you are "selling" them to your PM.
Consulting for the exit opps:
1) Sounds as if you're not set on one path so exit opps are key? 2) MBA programs? Consulting (at comparable shops) kills banking 3) Did i mention exit options?
Consultants are overworked and underpaid relative to wall street. Funny thing is that buy side or sell side research is one of the most desirable exit options. While Consulting is better for MBA you really have to be talking about McK, BCG, Bain or one of the strong boutiques - accenture won't really get you there
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