What is Consulting?

Consulting is an exciting career path for those who enjoy tackling complex problems, working with diverse teams, and driving strategic solutions. Consultants are hired by organizations to analyze challenges, recommend improvements, and sometimes support implementation. Whether you work at a large consulting firm or as part of an internal strategy team, consultants play a key role in helping companies adapt, grow, and succeed.

As a consultant, you may:

  • Analyze data and diagnose problems
  • Conduct market or industry research
  • Facilitate strategy sessions with clients
  • Present findings and make recommendations
  • Manage stakeholder relationships and timelines

If you’re exploring consulting after graduation, here are some job titles to look for:

  • Consulting Analyst
  • Junior Consultant
  • Strategy Analyst
  • Implementation Analyst
  • Client Services Associate
  • Project Coordinator (Consulting Services)
  • Research Associate (Consulting)

Tip: Even if “consultant” isn’t in the title, many roles still offer consulting-style work.

Consultants are hired across many industries and companies. Some students work at traditional consulting firms, while others join internal strategy or business operations teams at large companies.

Types of employers to look for:

  • Large consulting firms (e.g., Deloitte, Accenture, EY, Bain, PwC)
  • Boutique or specialized consulting firms (e.g., Slalom, Clarkston Consulting)
  • Tech companies (e.g., Salesforce, IBM, Oracle)
  • Healthcare organizations
  • Financial services
  • Nonprofits or NGOs
  • Government and public sector advisory
  • Internal consulting roles at Fortune 500 companies

Connect with alumni and industry professionals working in consulting on Rams Connect or LinkedIn, and consider joining campus case competitions or clubs to strengthen your skills and exposure.

Not sure what to say when reaching out? Check out our Guide to Writing Outreach Emails.

You don’t need to be hired at a consulting firm to start building consulting skills. Here are some great ways to gain experience while still in school:

  • Join the CState Consulting Practicum, where students work in teams on real client projects each year. This practicum is a hands-on way to explore consulting, strengthen your resume, and build team and client communication skills
  • Participate in case competitions or join a club focused on strategy, business, or consulting
  • Complete virtual job simulations through The Forage to explore what it’s like to work at top consulting firms
  • Take LinkedIn Learning courses focused on consulting, strategy, data analysis, and client communication
  • Apply for internships where you can analyze data, improve operations, or work with cross-functional teams

Tip: Consulting firms look for students who are analytical, adaptable, and collaborative — so seek out experiences that show you can solve problems and work with others.