breaking into the industry

I've just graduated from uni and am really passionate about getting into consultancy, specifically business improvement/business systems/IT side of consultancy.

The only trouble is, I have only 250 UCAS points and a 2:2 degree (only a couple % off a 2:1).

I haven't applied for any graduate programmes because of my academics, is there any chance for me in consultancy at all!? My academics also mean that I can't even get onto work experience schemes... so I'm finding it extremely difficult to break into the industry.

Has anyone got any advice on this???

I do have a year's experience in a large company (British Nuclear Group) where I gained many skills with a specific focus on project management. And collectively I have 2 years experience from other projects I have undertaken whilst at University.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Hi H22UKgrad,

I had similar issue as you. I only got 2:2 for my first degree (but better UCAS points). My route into consulting was to go into a high-profile industry grad scheme. They are not so hung up on academics + you can get some great operational, mangament and business experience. I then went off to do an MBA (just make sure you get a top GMAT score)

The good GMAT, top-b-school and 6 years of 'industry' experience (actualling deliverin, improving and living with business systems) has enabled me to land an associate position with a top consulting firm. Who were VERY impressed by the experiences I gained in industry (and it is a good sell-on for htem to thier clients)

Its a bit of a long way around, and you might not like the idea of going into industry. But it is a way to get into consulting.

Cheers,

P

To be honest, P's advice is excellent - it will enable you to have more control over the consulting role you take on. As a graduate hire, big consultancies can feel like sweatshops. As you develop a base of expertise, you have more control.

Depending on which consultancy you want to aim at, the MBA isn't essential either - it's the skills you have and the difference you can make that counts the most.