Can I get a job as an associate if I have already graduated from college? (May 2024)

Question

Hi,

I'm an international student who graduated from Harvard University in May. I have been doing clinical research since then and am interested in applying to consulting jobs.

I didn't really explore this field when I was an undergrad so I never did an internship or any consulting-related activities. My experiences are listed below:

Academics:

- GPA: 3.86 (Molecular and Cellular Biology, Cum Laude)

- SAT Math: 790

Experience:

- Research Assistant: conducted antibiotic resistance research (bench lab) for three years which led to a senior thesis

- Teaching Assistant: tutored organic chemistry, general chemistry, and biology. Also developed course materials and study guides and mentored students

Leadership:

- Coordinator at ethnic/cultural associations (managed budgeting, planned events, etc)

- Captain of swimming team (this was back home in high school, not sure if it's relevant.)

- Mentor high school students from my country who are applying to top US colleges

Other:

- Languages: Arabic, Persian, German

- Computer skills: basic python, basic R

Thank you!

Answer 1

Hi Tabasom,

Q: Can I get a job as an associate if I have already graduated from college?

You can get a job in consulting also after graduation. Your profile looks good. The role will be an entry-level one (Analyst at McKinsey, Associate at BCG and Bain).

Good luck!

Francesco

Answer 2

Hi there,

Yes, you can - reach out to current consultants of your target firms and HR to get discussions going and potentially score a referral!

Cheers,

Florian