Hi Cheggers. I recently graduated with a 2:1 (Hons) in Business and Marketing, and over the past few months I have become increasingly keen on working for PA (it sounds like a great firm to work for!). Unfortunately, I was unable to apply for this year’s intake due to a slightly unconventional background (mainly that I have NO A-levels, and therefore NO UCAS points). I have been advised to try and gain some experience in an analytical role which should then make me more marketable to Consultancy firms. Well I’ve managed to secure a position in Internal Audit and Risk Management with a medium sized Accountancy firm, who are going to put me through my IIA exams (not a widely known qualification I know). The work is mainly in the public sector and basically involves identifying the risks an organisation faces, testing and evaluating the controls they have in place, and advising management on any issues that arise. The role seems fairly broad covering not just financial risk, but also areas such as Marketing, HR, IT and so on, and also involves ‘consultancy related’ assignments. The question I have is this; Will this kind of experience be seen as valuable/relevant for a position at PA, either for 2006/2007 graduate intake or for a Consultant Analyst position after 3 years (my preference would be with S&M but also really interested in BOP). I have already had some great advice from Tony and RecruitGal about this in general, but I would really appreciate your opinion. Thanks in advance, S.H.

Thank you for your interest in PA and for your message above. We take take everything into account before making a decision on a candidate. Please do contact me to discuss this further. My e-mail address is jacqueline.tompkins@paconsulting.comI look forward to hearing from you.

Hi there S.H. You have made an excellent choice in wanting to work for PA. They are a top top firm. I see you preference is for the S&M practice. Im due to join that practice this year and have to say the people I met through my recruitment process were amongst the most friendly, informed, polite and easy going people ive met in any recruitment process. The firm continues to grow at a good rate, and are constantly adding good clients to their books as well as having a strong (an quite frankly amongst the best) public sector client list. I had offers from some other firms but for me PA were heads and shoulders the best in terms of work offered, people, and a chance to be yourself and undertake challenging yet highly rewarding work. Im so in love with the firm that I would actually like to be involved in their recruitment campaigns and get my rather handsome face on brochures (although) this remains to be seen. Whats more they are very understanding, unlike most firms and see you as who you are and what you will bring. Jackie Tompkins is great. If you meet her, you'll see what i mean. She is the symbol for me of PA - down to earth, professional, friendly and always greeted me with a warm smile...believe me it helps when your very nervous. All the best with what you decide to do. Id be happy to answer any questions about the recruitment process.

Hi B. Thanks for the comments. What youve said fits in with pretty much every post I have read on this site (at least from people who work at PA or about to start). I know some people may see as sad to bang on about your firm all the time (see above post) but there are not many people out their (consultants or otherwise) who are lucky enough to be able to say they love their job and actualy mean it!. I wish you the best of luck with PA, who knows, maybe we'll be working together someday!. Thanks S.H

Hi Jackie. Thanks for your interest. The more read about PA the more I want to work there, everyone seems really motivated, (especially cheggers) which for me is key. I will definately contact you in the next few days. Thanks again, S.H

Hi Cheggers. From what I gather you are currently working at PA consulting and will therefore be of great help to me. I recently finished my MSc in Development Administration and Planning from UCL, did my undergrad in Economics and Politics (2.1)(Uni of Sheffield) and I desperately want to join PA Consulting Government Services Consulting Division (International Development to be specific). However I have 22 ucas points and PA requires 24 ucas points. Based on my extensive research on the work of and environment in PA I believe I have the right skills to function efficiently and effectively in PA. What do you recommend I do. I look forward to hearing from you