Landing a consulting internship at a top firm is like securing a golden ticket. It’s an invaluable opportunity that can pave the way to a full-time role, giving you a head start in the competitive world of consulting. But how do you make it happen? With high stakes come high expectations, so here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the journey.

Why Consulting Internships Matter

Internships are a gateway to a full-time offer. Typically, 50-70% of summer interns receive full-time job offers. This makes internships not just a learning opportunity, but a critical step in securing your future career. Beyond the job offer, internships provide extensive professional training, a taste of consulting life, and a chance to evaluate if the consulting path aligns with your career goals.

What a Consulting Internship Looks Like

During a consulting internship, you will:

• Join a real team working on a project for a client.

• Work on a small part of a larger project.

• Own the end-to-end recommendation for that piece.

• Interact with partners and clients.

• Have a visible impact on client deliverables.

Unlike some companies that assign light projects to interns, consulting firms expect you to contribute meaningfully. You’ll receive ample support from your team, but you will be doing real work that matters.

Typical Tasks for Consulting Interns

As a consulting intern, your tasks will include:

• Conducting research.

• Analyzing data.

• Developing presentations.

• Attending meetings.

• Supporting project teams.

You’ll often start with a week of training on problem-solving, Excel, and PowerPoint tools. Then, you’ll be staffed on a client project, paired with a manager or senior associate to show you the ropes.

My Experience as a McKinsey Summer Intern

Reflecting on my own journey, I vividly remember the hands-on experience and the steep learning curve. I was paired with a Junior Engagement Manager (JEM) who was transitioning to an Engagement Manager role. He identified a piece of his larger workstream for me to tackle, offering advice and guidance but also allowing me to work independently. This combination of support and autonomy was invaluable.

Key Responsibilities

• Work Plan Development: Lay out your work plan and align it with your manager and the project partner. This involves defining the problem, key analyses, data collection, and client interviews.

• Quantitative Analysis: Organize data, perform analyses like discounted cash flow, and present your findings.

• Qualitative Analysis: Create conceptual pages that organize and communicate recommendations based on qualitative information.

• Syndication: Share your work with team members, partners, and clients to get feedback and refine your recommendations.

How to Stand Out as a Summer Intern

1. Be a Good Problem-Solver: Show that you can think critically and talk through problems with your manager and partners.

2. Take Ownership: Know your work plan better than anyone else and manage your tasks independently.

3. Communicate Clearly: Start with the problem you’re solving and sequentially go deeper into your insights and analysis.

4. Be Results-Oriented: Lead with the answer, even if it’s a half-answer.

5. Demonstrate Analytical Skills: Show mastery of analysis and ensure your work is accurate.

Application Process for Consulting Internships

Start early and be prepared. Consulting firms typically begin recruiting for summer internships early in the year. Research firm deadlines and prepare your resume, cover letter, and other required materials well in advance. Networking is crucial—attend on-campus events, reach out to professionals on LinkedIn, and seek referrals.

Tips to Ace Your Summer Consulting Internship

1. Triple-Check Your Work: Ensure your analysis is airtight.

2. Own Any Mistakes: Handle mistakes responsibly and learn from them.

3. Build Relationships: Get along with team members and earn their confidence.

4. Seek Feedback: Actively seek and incorporate feedback to improve.

5. Learn About the Firm: Make sure the firm’s culture and work align with your career goals.

Resources to Help You Prepare

• Case Interview Prep: Utilize resources like casebooks and online platforms to practice.

• Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor them to highlight relevant skills and experiences.

• Networking Events: Attend career fairs and company events to meet recruiters and learn more about the firms.

Turning Your Internship into a Full-Time Job

To increase your chances of receiving a full-time offer:

• Deliver high-quality work consistently.

• Maintain a positive attitude.

• Communicate your career intentions clearly.

• Build a strong professional network within the firm.

Conclusion

Securing a consulting internship is a challenging but rewarding process. By preparing thoroughly, networking effectively, and demonstrating your skills and dedication, you can make the most of this opportunity and set the stage for a successful consulting career.