Despite the fact women currently comprise more than 25% of the industry, business consulting continues to be mischaracterized as a “boys club.” Scripps College graduates are doing their part to change this perception, landing lucrative positions in the process.
Amanda Schaible ’14, a first-year analyst at economic consulting firm Cornerstone Research, Leah Soffer ’14, a business analyst at Deloitte Consulting, and India Mullady ’11, formerly a consultant at Deloitte before becoming a regional project manager for a tech company, offer their experiences and advice about the consulting world.
Why did you choose consulting as a career path?
Amanda Schaible: I was an economics major and loved using analytical skills in college. I formerly interned in wealth management and, while it was a great experience, I wanted a role where I could use my expertise to address the financial side of a variety of business problems.
Leah Soffer: Consulting seemed ideal because I love learning. Every day you learn something new, you’re uncomfortable—even senior staff feels this way. The fun part to me is forging a path in ambiguous situations and solving problems creatively.
India Mullady: Consulting offers a broad skill set that only opens more career doors. The experience I gained in three years at Deloitte helped me transition to the start-up world and could take me anywhere.
Has your Scripps education been useful in your role?
AS: Yes, especially my coursework in economics. It helped me acquire the analytical skills I use every day.
LS: Scripps pushed me to try things I was uncomfortable with and dive into other topics and issues I never thought would interest me. The result has been incredible.”
IM: The mentorship I received from faculty and staff and the small class sizes definitely helped me develop as a person and learn to succeed in building business relationships.
Has it been challenging working in a historically male-dominated industry?
AS: I’ve had an interesting experience: two of the three Cornerstone partners are women, and we have many women in the firm’s leadership positions. My class [of first-year analysts] is actually predominantly women.
LS: It is noticeable at times. I am one of two female analysts in my start class, and I am surrounded by more men than women. Deloitte does have excellent support systems for women, however, and the firm is addressing the gender gap.
IM: In my experience, there are plenty of female analysts and consultants, –and we are on equal footing with our male counterparts. As you advance in your career, there tend to be fewer women in leadership roles. I rely on my many mentors, both male and female, to help me continue to grow and progress.
What advice do you have for current students trying to break into consulting or a field with a similar reputation?
AS: Practice, practice, practice for case interviews! They are very different from typical interviews. And just prepare to be a good candidate, in general; your qualifications, skills, and attitude will help you succeed. Stay in touch with that.
LS: Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. Several men told me I would feel uncomfortable working in a male-centric workplace, and some of my peers criticized me for my interest in a business career. If you are passionate about it, remember that, and don’t let anyone dissuade you.
IM: Scripps students are overall extremely qualified, and they need to recognize and tout their accomplishments. It is so important students not underestimate their abilities; confidence is key.
Interested in learning more about consulting? CP&R offers workshops and interview preparation, while Scripps Women in Finance and Consulting offers additional networking opportunities.