This is a result of some introspection over the last couple months. Have been thinking long and hard about what I really want to do (more than just a job). After identifying my strengths and weaknesses, I have come to the conclusion that I will be a good fit for management consulting. Potentially there are two paths to this : MBA or without MBA. I am looking for some feedback on the following issues: 1. With my credentials (below), do I have a fair shot at getting into one of the management/strategy consulting firms without an MBA ? 2. If the answer is yes, should I restrict myself to automotive industry specific consulting or should I go broader ? 3. Is not having an MBA , a disdvantage in the long term ? CREDENTIALS ----------- I have 3 years experience in the automotive industry - 2 years in technical consulting and the last 1 year with an OEM. As a consultant, I was responsible for understanding client requirements, writing proposals, in depth technical analysis, budget tracking and communication of results to the client. In the last year, I have had a chance to look at the industry from a OEM perspective, working with cross functional teams on next generation product development. I have also had a chance to act as a liaison between suppliers and internal product teams. EDUCATION --------- MS in Mechanical Engineering from a top engineering school. (Research Assistant at the best academic research center in my field). My course profile was highly mathematical and I have enough experience with numerical modeling. MS GPA : 3.9 Undergrad GPA : 3.9 Please feel free to ask for more information to answer my questions. Thanks, in advance, for your feedback.

Dear hsj,my personal opinion of MBAs is that, yes, the big strategy consulting firms look for them AND a very good degree from a good university. They are still quite "old school" in the need for qualifications and the right names on your CV. Why? Because they can afford to be! SO, MBA route could be an option. The other is to join a consultancy further down the food chain and work up from there. Also, 3 years experience does not sound like a lot. These companies tend to take new graduates or more experienced ones (5+ years).Good luck!

Hi there,Are you looking to move anything soon? I think there are plenty of options for you in consulting in out Resources or perhaps Products operating groups. You do not need An MBA to get into consulting and would probably be able to transfer directly. Happy to look over your CV and discuss options.Have a look at http://careers3.accenture.com/careers/uk/ and feel free to drop me a line at c_p_tomlinson@hotmail.com of you’d like any further details?Thanks,Chris