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Late Transition from PhD to Consulting

Hi all,

I am able to graduate soon with a PhD in the biomedical science field from a top Canadian university, which limits my time to gain extracurricular experience in consulting before my application. I hadn't anticipated this moved-up timeline, but as any graduate student will tell you, when the opportunity to leave presents itself, you take it! Unfortunately a post-doc was not on my mind as I am trying to actively move away from lab work, so this is my shot at the advanced degree pool.

I did hold some jobs during my degree (mostly education-based: TA, teaching for a highschool), some volunteer positions (Student unions, mentorship programs, etc) and earlier this year began my own business (service-oriented, client facing), so I am not solely without work experience. I also have 4.0 gpas from both undergrad and my PhD.

I saw advanced degree opportunities come up and am wondering Is it worth applying to the advanced degree postion (and risking the infamous ban), or to try and gain experience first try to get in as experienced hire? I am currently reaching out to life science PhDs who have made the transition to build connections and gain insight, I just was not prepared for the move up in timing.

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Top answer
Florian
Coach
on Jul 19, 2024
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 500+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

You are doing well. I would also have recommended getting the discussions going with current consultants as well as HR to test the waters and score referrals for the eventual application!

Without having seen your resume, this sounds like a typical profile that would make it through the screening.

Reach out if you need more help and guidance!

Cheers,

Florian

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