For those venturing into the daunting realm of business consulting, success tales are more than just motivating—they’re guiding lights. One such example is Abhishek Aryaman, a junior at Penn State, who has navigated his way from being an international student to snagging internships at industry giants like KPMG and EY. His journey, packed with learnings and strategies, sheds light on the often perplexing world of consulting internships.
Aryaman’s entry into the consulting world began with a mix of high hopes and a dash of naiveté during his freshman year. He quickly realized the need for a well-thought-out strategy to tackle the competitive internship landscape. “My freshman self was quite optimistic, maybe too much,” Aryaman recalls with a chuckle. “I had to quickly learn the ropes and find a method to the madness.” His proactive approach led him to devise a practical framework to guide his applications.
Networking, according to Aryaman, is not just about making contacts but creating meaningful relationships. He suggests that others with aspirations reach out for informational interviews with professionals in their desired fields, which helps in gaining insights and building a supportive network.
Building on these networking strategies, Aryaman’s experiences and advice were further explored in an enlightening interview on the ‘InternMakers’ YouTube channel, where he appeared in the “How I Got Into” series. During this candid conversation, Aryaman divulged his strategies for landing consulting internships at notable firms like EY and KPMG. He also offered valuable tips on excelling in the consulting world. One practical piece of advice he emphasized was the importance of orienting documents towards clients—literally turning sheets 360 degrees to ensure clients can easily read and feel prioritized during discussions. Aryaman’s ability to connect with his audience through relatable storytelling made this interview a treasure trove of practical tips for anyone aiming to succeed in consulting. You can watch the full interview here to get more insights directly from Aryaman.
Following the insights from his interview, Aryaman also highlights the critical components of the application process itself. He emphasizes the importance of a tailored resume, a compelling cover letter, a professional LinkedIn profile, and securing referrals. “Every element plays a distinct role in showcasing your abilities and how well you fit the desired role,” he notes.
Interviews are the critical gateways to securing a position. Aryaman divides his interview prep into behavioral and case study segments, emphasizing that both require thorough preparation. “It’s crucial to showcase your analytical skills, client-focused mindset, and logical reasoning during these sessions,” he advises.
Beyond technical skills, Aryaman points to five key qualities for those aiming to excel in consulting: a logical problem-solving framework, client-oriented skills, leadership experiences, global exposure, and innovative thinking. “The consulting field isn’t just about solving business issues; it requires adaptability, an understanding of diverse viewpoints, and a drive for innovation,” he explains.
Despite a well-planned approach, rejection is an inevitable part of the journey. Aryaman views resilience as vital, suggesting that persistence and continuous learning are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Outside of his academic pursuits, Aryaman is also a budding entrepreneur, currently working on ‘Mule’, a college-based delivery app aimed at streamlining campus deliveries. This venture reflects his knack for innovation and solving practical problems.
Aryaman’s story is a blueprint for anyone aiming to break into the competitive consulting field. His experiences offer invaluable lessons for students and young professionals alike.
To stay updated on Abhishek Aryaman’s journey and professional insights, you can follow him on LinkedIn and Twitter. For a deeper dive into his approach and personal experiences, check out his detailed discussion here.
