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How do I break into the consulting industry?

I am a college student. How do I break into the consulting industry?

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Kevin’s Answer

I would agree with what Marcia said already: consultants are experts in their given field, thus, to be a consultant you need experience--a lot of experience. The consultants I work with all pursued consulting after working within their respective industries at a high level for years, if not decades.

If that's the path you want to take, I'd suggest focusing on the industry in which you wish to consult. Finance, accounting, legislation, law, education, manufacturing, marketing, construction, shipping, research: these are all industries with huge consulting opportunities (and there are countless more), but--again--they're going to seek out experts when they need a consultant.
Thank you comment icon Hey Kevin, while I know a lot of consultants who are experts in their fields, I started in consulting straight out of college. I was picked for my background in data analytics, but not because I had already developed deep expertise in the area. Being an expert is not a requirement to be a consultant; being able to think creatively and advise constructively is. Katharine Sobotka
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Liz’s Answer

Apply to summer internships! Great way to get your foot in the door.

Don't be afraid to reach out to people on linkedin doing a role that seems interesting to you - they may be able to point you in the direction of a future internship or hiring manager.
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Marcia’s Answer

Hello Marissa, From what I've gathered, particularly in the realm of the packaging sector, consultants typically possess a background in working for packaging firms or in packaging divisions of companies that produce and market goods. With this in mind, it could be beneficial to gain experience within the industry before venturing into a consulting role. However, this might not be the case across all sectors.
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