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Uroosh
on Jan 24, 2025
USA
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Hello everyone! I am a masters graduate in data science and my major was business/ data analytics. I want to get started into management consulting and I am looking for some guide on how to start that please.

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Eric
Coach
on Jan 24, 2025
Ex Principal at BCG SF office | 100+ decision round interviews | BCG case bank contributor

First of all, your background in data science and business analytics is highly attractive to major consulting firms! Many firms, especially in today’s world where AI/Data analytics is a key topic for consulting firm, are actively seeking candidates with strong technical expertise like yours.

Key Steps to Get Started in Consulting:

  1. Decide Your Path: Generalist vs. Specialist
    • One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want to join as a generalist consultant (working on a variety of business problems across industries) or as part of a specialized data science team, such as BCG X, McKinsey’s QuantumBlack, or Bain’s Advanced Analytics Group.
    • If you lean toward generalist consulting, your data expertise will still be valuable, but your focus will be broader. On the other hand, joining a specialized team allows you to leverage your data science skills more directly on technical projects.
  2. Application Process
    • The application process for both paths is quite similar, with a focus on resumes, cover letters, and interviews.
    • Having a referral from someone inside the firm is a significant advantage. Networking with alumni from your university or professionals in your target firms can help you secure one.
  3. Case Interview Preparation
    • No matter the path you choose, rigorous preparation for case interviews is essential. These interviews test your ability to think like a consultant, focusing on structured problem-solving, communication, and business acumen.
    • There are many resources to help you practice, such as case books, online platforms, or mock interviews with peers. PrepLounge is a great place for you to find both coaches and peers! 

Final Advice:

Combine your technical expertise with strong business problem-solving skills to position yourself as a hybrid candidate. Many firms value this unique combination. With focused preparation, you’ll be well on your way to breaking into consulting!

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Uroosh
on Jan 25, 2025
@Eric thank you so much for your valuable guide. I will definitely start working on them and hopefully I will be able to get some referrals too.
Han
Coach
on Jan 25, 2025
Ex-Mckinsey EM| Experienced round 1 interviewer | Free 15mins intro call | 50% off first session for limited time

Hi, 

 

Coming from a similar background like you, I'm happy to share some personal learnings throughout my journey and hope could be helpful to you:

 

  • Start looking for target positions across consulting firms: For MBB, each firm has its own data science service line, Eric's response above already listed them out. In McKinsey, beyond QuantumBlack, I also recommend you to look into Risk Dynamics if you are interested in financial services and are less coding-savvy (can share more details through a quick call as I came from there). QB is a pure DS/ML division, which covers broader topics but the career path is quite different too
  • Polish your resume to fit for the position: Some positions are more technical-focused, and some are more focused on business. So your resume should also be tailored instead of "one-size-fits-all"
  • Start prepping for code and case interview asap: Typically folks from our background will have less challenge on coding but more on casing. As a technical consultant or a data scientist in the consulting industry, you need to master both. During my interview prep, I was fortunate to find many great casing partners through preplounge, but ultimately I got help from some coaches to truly crack the casing round. The real key is just tons of practice. 

 

Happy to talk through more in an intro conversation if helpful. Feel free to reach out!

 

Cheers,

Han

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Alessa
Coach
on Jan 25, 2025
xMcKinsey & Company | xBCG | +200 individual & group coachings | feel free to schedule a 15 min intro call for free

Hey there! 😊 It’s great that you’re looking to break into management consulting with your data science background. A good starting point would be to:

  • Leverage your analytical skills – Consulting firms love data-driven problem solvers!
  • Network actively – Connect with consultants on LinkedIn, attend events, and ask for informational chats.
  • Prepare for case interviews – Start with resources like “Case in Point” or consulting club casebooks.
  • Tailor your resume – Highlight your problem-solving, teamwork, and analytical skills.
  • Look into specialized consulting roles – Many firms have data analytics-focused consulting teams.

Feel free to reach out if you'd like more advice—happy to help! 😊

Alessa

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Ian
Coach
edited on Jan 26, 2025
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

This is the best option: a 100+ video course that takes you through the entire journey, start to finish:

Successful Interview Prep 

Second option: Hire a coach

Alterative option: Do it yourself, read the other generic ChatGPT answers here, and take twice as long in your prep with twice as much work, doing the wrong things the wrong way with sub-optimal recruiting outcomes!

Here are some starting tips:

The Most Common Pitfalls in Case Interview Preparation

How to Shift Your Mindset to Ace the Case

How to Get a Consulting Internship - Tips and Tricks

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Eric
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Ex Principal at BCG SF office | 100+ decision round interviews | BCG case bank contributor
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