12 answers
sarah
Student
Singapore
1
Question
Asked
2498 views
What do I need to do to get into a good business university and land a job in a big consulting company?
I am about to start my first year of IB in a few weeks, and I'm lost. I have picked these IB subjects:
Business, Economics, English (lang and lit) - HL
Math AA, ESS, Spanish ab into - SL
I want to find as many opportunities (online or in Singapore) that will help me get into a great business university that allows me to get a job in a big consulting company (like mckensy, deloitte, etc) I am aware that universities prefer math as an HL but math is not my strong point. I want to get into a business field, such as marketing, HR, or any other field that requires minimal math.
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12 answers
Robin Grochol
Technical Product Management
1
Answer
San Mateo, California
Updated
Robin’s Answer
My #1 advice is to join a business related club at your college/university.
Look for clubs focused on business broadly (Business Club, Entrepreneurship Society, Consulting Club, Finance/Investment Club) or specialized ones that align with your interests.
At the start of the semester, universities generally host a club fair where student organizations recruit new members.
Many clubs are open to everyone: you just fill out a sign-up form, pay a small membership fee (if any), and start attending. More selective clubs (e.g., consulting or investment banking clubs) may require an application or interview.
Business clubs are often about building connections. Participate in events, competitions, or networking nights. Don’t just join passively—talk to peers, alumni, and guest speakers. That’s where a lot of the value comes from. And this is a great way to learn about consulting internships and they often give priorities to business clubs.
Good luck!
Look for clubs focused on business broadly (Business Club, Entrepreneurship Society, Consulting Club, Finance/Investment Club) or specialized ones that align with your interests.
At the start of the semester, universities generally host a club fair where student organizations recruit new members.
Many clubs are open to everyone: you just fill out a sign-up form, pay a small membership fee (if any), and start attending. More selective clubs (e.g., consulting or investment banking clubs) may require an application or interview.
Business clubs are often about building connections. Participate in events, competitions, or networking nights. Don’t just join passively—talk to peers, alumni, and guest speakers. That’s where a lot of the value comes from. And this is a great way to learn about consulting internships and they often give priorities to business clubs.
Good luck!
Steve Basmajian
Designer
15
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Hi Sarah, a lot of great advice here. One additional piece would be to look at internships at smaller or local consultancies in the near term. Having real experience working with clients and all of the nuances of business consultancies would be a huge plus. Deloitte, Accenture, McKinsey, Bain, etc. all operate in similar ways.
Being able to hit the ground running would be great for your career trajectory and help you stand out from the other applicants.
Being able to hit the ground running would be great for your career trajectory and help you stand out from the other applicants.
Pietro Vischi
Product Manager
3
Answers
Milan, Lombardy, Italy
Updated
Pietro’s Answer
Hi Sarah, attending a good university is a great start, but the best results come from reading a lot about your favorite topic and meeting people in that field who can help you grow professionally.
Jason Kerfeld
Channel Sales
2
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Sarah,
Just keep moving forward! You've already done a fantastic job figuring out what you're good at and where you can improve. Keep building on both! It's great to be really skilled in a few things, but also to know a little about many things.
There are so many amazing universities and companies out there. When I began my studies, I wasn't sure which business path to take, so I picked business administration. Over the next two years, I got to explore different parts of business and discovered what I truly enjoyed.
Just keep moving forward! You've already done a fantastic job figuring out what you're good at and where you can improve. Keep building on both! It's great to be really skilled in a few things, but also to know a little about many things.
There are so many amazing universities and companies out there. When I began my studies, I wasn't sure which business path to take, so I picked business administration. Over the next two years, I got to explore different parts of business and discovered what I truly enjoyed.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2430
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you have interest to become an consultant.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Consultants may focus on different disciplines, e.g. Management, ESG, Transformation, Technology, Finance, Strategy, etc. Each discipline has its own knowledge domain. You can find out more consultant disciplines online.
2. Find out more different on different consulting disciplines and determine what you have interest
3. Shortlist 1-2 disciplines you have interest
4. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subject in colleges
5. Explore any intern opportunities working large consulting firms
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Consultants may focus on different disciplines, e.g. Management, ESG, Transformation, Technology, Finance, Strategy, etc. Each discipline has its own knowledge domain. You can find out more consultant disciplines online.
2. Find out more different on different consulting disciplines and determine what you have interest
3. Shortlist 1-2 disciplines you have interest
4. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subject in colleges
5. Explore any intern opportunities working large consulting firms
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Yolanda Camberos, MBA
Channel Services
1
Answer
Alexandria, Virginia
Updated
Yolanda’s Answer
Hi Sara! It's great that you know what you want to do after school. If you're interested in business consulting, start by taking courses and creating a resume that highlights your future as a consultant. Begin by gaining two types of experiences: first, engage in structured problem-solving activities like case competitions, virtual consulting internships on Forage, or McKinsey’s free "Forward" course. These should have measurable outcomes, like "reduced club costs by 15%." Second, take on leadership roles with a story, such as organizing a fundraiser, leading a sports team, or managing social media for a school club. Share your reflections and certificates on LinkedIn, and keep in touch with mentors. By the time you apply to university, you’ll have both the academic credentials and impactful experiences that big consulting firms seek in first-year students. Stay open to unexpected opportunities, as they can be some of the best. Good luck!
Caitlin Canton
Human Resources Manager
31
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Caitlin’s Answer
Hi Sarah! I currently work in human resources, but when I joined a Big 4 accounting firm, it was with an entry level job as a consultant! I studied accounting and management information systems in college, and always thought I would end up being an accountant. But my company came to my college, and posted a position that I could apply for in Forensics. I used Google to better understand what that was, and on the information night, I came prepared with tons of questions. I walked away so excited - this career sounded exactly like what I was trying to do - it offered variety, possibility of travel, and a lot of really great experience with people that I felt I could work well with.
For your question, here are some tips:
- If your college has a career site where companies post jobs they will interview for, check it frequently!
- Talk to advisors within the accounting or a related department -- my advisor was a tremendous resource when I was interviewing. She did mock interviews with me so I could practice answering questions.
- Tell everyone (in the most natural way) what you are looking to do. You never know when someone might have someone in their life that they can connect you to.
- Find organizations within the field that are ranked high or seem like they would be a good fit for you. Go to their careers page and see how to apply!
- Use a cover letter! When applying, a cover letter is an underutilized tool to add color and depth to your resume, which you want to keep really concise.
You will do really great - keep asking these great questions!
For your question, here are some tips:
- If your college has a career site where companies post jobs they will interview for, check it frequently!
- Talk to advisors within the accounting or a related department -- my advisor was a tremendous resource when I was interviewing. She did mock interviews with me so I could practice answering questions.
- Tell everyone (in the most natural way) what you are looking to do. You never know when someone might have someone in their life that they can connect you to.
- Find organizations within the field that are ranked high or seem like they would be a good fit for you. Go to their careers page and see how to apply!
- Use a cover letter! When applying, a cover letter is an underutilized tool to add color and depth to your resume, which you want to keep really concise.
You will do really great - keep asking these great questions!
Gilbert Betancourt
I support agencies in the sales process
11
Answers
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Updated
Gilbert’s Answer
Hi Sarah,
My biggest advice is: don’t stress, you’re going to make it, and you’re on the right path.
Second, focus on doing what you truly enjoy. Learn about it, look for more information, but make sure it’s something you love, whether it’s marketing, HR, or anything else.
You need to know what really excites you. Don’t just go for a job because it seems like the best option right now. I’m telling you from experience, something similar happened to me. I ended up getting the job I thought I wanted, but it wasn’t something I truly loved.
If I had a time machine, I’d go back and choose the path that actually made me happy, even if society didn’t see it as the "best" choice. The money will come eventually, and the best part is, you’ll be earning it doing something you truly enjoy for the rest of your life.
Regards,
Gilbert
My biggest advice is: don’t stress, you’re going to make it, and you’re on the right path.
Second, focus on doing what you truly enjoy. Learn about it, look for more information, but make sure it’s something you love, whether it’s marketing, HR, or anything else.
You need to know what really excites you. Don’t just go for a job because it seems like the best option right now. I’m telling you from experience, something similar happened to me. I ended up getting the job I thought I wanted, but it wasn’t something I truly loved.
If I had a time machine, I’d go back and choose the path that actually made me happy, even if society didn’t see it as the "best" choice. The money will come eventually, and the best part is, you’ll be earning it doing something you truly enjoy for the rest of your life.
Regards,
Gilbert
Pareen Daya
Data Analyst
6
Answers
Perth, Western Australia, Australia
Updated
Pareen’s Answer
It’s great that you’re thinking ahead about your goals! Getting into a top business university and eventually landing a role at a major consulting firm like McKinsey or Deloitte is absolutely achievable with the right strategy.
Your IB subject choices—especially Business, Economics, and English HL—are strong foundations for a business-focused path. While it’s true that some universities prefer Math HL, many also recognise the rigour of Math AA SL, especially if you excel in it.
Since you're aiming for fields like marketing or HR, which are less math-intensive, your current selection is still very relevant. To strengthen your university applications, focus on achieving top grades, but also seek out leadership roles, business competitions (like DECA or case challenges), internships, and volunteering—especially in Singapore, where there are many student-friendly opportunities.
Online platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning can also help you build skills in areas like digital marketing, communication, and project management. When it comes time to apply, tailor your personal statement to show your passion for business and your long-term consulting goals. Finally, stay curious and proactive—consulting firms value problem-solvers who take initiative and communicate well. You're already on the right track!
Your IB subject choices—especially Business, Economics, and English HL—are strong foundations for a business-focused path. While it’s true that some universities prefer Math HL, many also recognise the rigour of Math AA SL, especially if you excel in it.
Since you're aiming for fields like marketing or HR, which are less math-intensive, your current selection is still very relevant. To strengthen your university applications, focus on achieving top grades, but also seek out leadership roles, business competitions (like DECA or case challenges), internships, and volunteering—especially in Singapore, where there are many student-friendly opportunities.
Online platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning can also help you build skills in areas like digital marketing, communication, and project management. When it comes time to apply, tailor your personal statement to show your passion for business and your long-term consulting goals. Finally, stay curious and proactive—consulting firms value problem-solvers who take initiative and communicate well. You're already on the right track!
RIchard Gervasio
Senior Consultant - Xerox Managed Print Services
3
Answers
Norwalk, Connecticut
Updated
RIchard’s Answer
Hi Sara,
To get in a good school you need great grades and all of the other things that go along with the admission process. What I recommend is to study what you love as an undergrad and get great grades no matter where you end up attending college. Then apply for graduate school and focus on a specific business are that you find interesting. That advanced degree is key as you will not have any significant business experience at that point. In the meantime, see if you can get internships at consulting firms of fortune 500 companies in the industries that you find most interesting.
Best of luck! You got this!
To get in a good school you need great grades and all of the other things that go along with the admission process. What I recommend is to study what you love as an undergrad and get great grades no matter where you end up attending college. Then apply for graduate school and focus on a specific business are that you find interesting. That advanced degree is key as you will not have any significant business experience at that point. In the meantime, see if you can get internships at consulting firms of fortune 500 companies in the industries that you find most interesting.
Best of luck! You got this!
Sivu Suppiah Ramu
Talent Mobility
4
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Sivu’s Answer
Hi Sarah,
There are some wonderful suggestions that others have mentioned. I would also add: network, network, network! It's who you know not what you know sometimes. Reach out to individuals (e.g. through your university's alumni network, LinkedIn, friends of family or friends) who are in consulting. Have informational interviews with them to learn about their career path, their role, and ask them for tips and advice. I did not go to a traditional business school but I worked at EY after graduating and these informational interviews helped me a lot.
Second thing is you will want to land an internship that will still teach you relevant consulting skillset while in college, especially the year before you graduate. I did not get an internship at a consulting firm my 3rd year. But I interned with a global HR M&A team at Thomson Reuters and that still exposed me to M&A and the transactions world, which helped me land my consulting role.
Third thing is practice interviewing. Consulting interviews will be a lot of case interviews. Victor Cheng has a lot of great resources for this. If you have a relevant internship and university leadership experience (like being a president or VP for a club), you can tie that to how it helped you build consulting skills for the behavioral interview questions.
Most importantly - don't stress! Find a university major and job and role that you enjoy! Company and team culture are important to consider too.
Best of luck,
Sivu
There are some wonderful suggestions that others have mentioned. I would also add: network, network, network! It's who you know not what you know sometimes. Reach out to individuals (e.g. through your university's alumni network, LinkedIn, friends of family or friends) who are in consulting. Have informational interviews with them to learn about their career path, their role, and ask them for tips and advice. I did not go to a traditional business school but I worked at EY after graduating and these informational interviews helped me a lot.
Second thing is you will want to land an internship that will still teach you relevant consulting skillset while in college, especially the year before you graduate. I did not get an internship at a consulting firm my 3rd year. But I interned with a global HR M&A team at Thomson Reuters and that still exposed me to M&A and the transactions world, which helped me land my consulting role.
Third thing is practice interviewing. Consulting interviews will be a lot of case interviews. Victor Cheng has a lot of great resources for this. If you have a relevant internship and university leadership experience (like being a president or VP for a club), you can tie that to how it helped you build consulting skills for the behavioral interview questions.
Most importantly - don't stress! Find a university major and job and role that you enjoy! Company and team culture are important to consider too.
Best of luck,
Sivu
Olivia McDonnell
Consulting
29
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Olivia’s Answer
Hi Sarah,
I think you received a lot of great advice on becoming a consultant, so I'm going to focus on the other part of your question specific to schools. You should look at which schools are target schools for the firms you are interested in. Target schools are the universities where these firms recruit from. Then research what each of those schools is looking for in a class profile. For example what is the 80% range for their SAT score. Once you have developed an idea of the target student for those schools, you should identify ways to match your accomplishments and skills to that profile. University admissions is not cookie cutter so your entire life doesn't need to revolve around consulting already. Once you are on campus, you will have the opportunity to leverage the advice provided by others in this thread such as clubs and networking. Good luck!
I think you received a lot of great advice on becoming a consultant, so I'm going to focus on the other part of your question specific to schools. You should look at which schools are target schools for the firms you are interested in. Target schools are the universities where these firms recruit from. Then research what each of those schools is looking for in a class profile. For example what is the 80% range for their SAT score. Once you have developed an idea of the target student for those schools, you should identify ways to match your accomplishments and skills to that profile. University admissions is not cookie cutter so your entire life doesn't need to revolve around consulting already. Once you are on campus, you will have the opportunity to leverage the advice provided by others in this thread such as clubs and networking. Good luck!