"On the Path of a New Career" by Dima Williams

Today has been a big day for me and my fellow first-year MBA students pursuing consulting at UNC Kenan-Flagler. After two days of intense brainstorming, frantic research and careful analysis, the Deloitte Case Competition wrapped up just hours ago. The competition presents participants with a case, pushing them to creatively solve a business’s problem. While my team of four (hailing form three different countries) did not make it to the top, the experience turned us into friends, taught us new skills and strengthened our determination to pursue a post-MBA career in consulting.

But, let me be candid, three months ago, I had only a vague idea about what consulting really is. My name is Dima Williams and, at the time, I lived in North Dakota, working in higher education and, on the side, covering real estate as a freelance reporter. All I knew is that I needed a change, a pivot, a new career. Upon my arrival in Chapel Hill, I was introduced to the MBA Consulting Club at the Kenan-Flagler Business School. Through my interactions with the Club’s leadership and second-year MBA students concentrating in consulting, my mind was made. For me, consulting is one of those few, coveted careers that constantly challenge you, while enabling you to interact with new people all the time, tackle complex issues and make an impact.

Recruiting for a consulting internship, however, is not easy. At times, it can be nerve-wracking and all-consuming, with hours upon hours spent on case practices, networking, competitions and deep dives into how my professional background translates into a consulting job. As I prepare for interviews, time moves fast. Two months into the semester, the deadlines for internship applications at the top consulting firms are quickly coming due. In this hectic process, Kenan-Flagler, the Consulting Club and numerous other school resources have been invaluable guides on the path to a new career.