Preparing for a Career in Business Consulting: Advice for High School Students

As a high school student, you may find yourself contemplating the different career paths available to you, with business consulting becoming an increasingly popular choice among college students today. This article provides valuable advice and insights for high school students who hope to pursue a career in business consulting.

Understanding Business Consulting

Business consulting involves helping companies improve their operations, strategies, and performance through expert analysis and strategic recommendations. In my engineering undergraduate program at the University of Pennsylvania, management consulting was not a common field of study, but today, it is one of the most sought-after professions, especially in undergraduate business and MBA programs.

Excellence in Academics

The first step is to excel in your high school studies. Focus on subjects such as English to improve your writing and oral communication skills, and mathematics to enhance your analytical capabilities. High academic performance can open doors to a number of opportunities, including internships and scholarships, which can pave the way for future success in the field of business consulting.

Engaging in Extracurricular Activities

Participating in extracurricular activities is crucial. Aim to take on leadership roles, as this can demonstrate your ability to manage and inspire others. Leadership experiences can be particularly beneficial, as they showcase your ability to work effectively in team settings and lead projects.

Exploring Management Consulting

Take the time to research management consulting online. Visit the websites of major consulting firms, such as McKinsey, BCG, and Bain, to understand what they do and who they serve. Smaller boutique firms can also provide unique insights. Look into the profiles of professionals in these firms to understand the types of skills and experiences they value in candidates.

Summer Jobs and Internships

Consider obtaining summer jobs or internships, preferably in roles that involve working with teams. These experiences can provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities, helping you gain insights into the consulting industry and develop critical skills such as problem-solving and communication.

Higher Education and Consulting Recruiting

Consider applying to undergraduate colleges or MBA programs that have a strong reputation for recruiting management consultants. The best consulting firms often select candidates from the top universities, so aim to get into the best program you can.

Developing Essential Skills

To build a strong foundation for a career in consulting, focus on developing key skills such as communication, analytical thinking, and problem-solving. Suggested reading and resources include:

The Pyramid Principle by Barbara Minto Visual communication skills Materials from the arts and design Say It with Charts Techniques for effective presentations

Engaging in these activities will not only prepare you for a career in business consulting but also equip you with lifelong skills that will benefit you in any professional setting.

Conclusion

While it's early to start thinking about specific consulting firms during middle school, it's never too early to set your goals and strive for excellence. By focusing on academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, and skill development, you can set yourself up for success in the competitive field of business consulting.

About the Author

Steve Shu, specializing in strategy, technology, and behavioral economics, brings over 15 years of experience in incubating new initiatives. He is the author of The Consulting Apprenticeship: 40 Jump-Start Ideas for You and Your Business and Inside Nudging: Implementing Behavioral Science Initiatives.