Analyst / Consulting
Solve business problems with an engineer's brain.
Analysts and consultants use structured thinking to solve problems for companies.
What the work looks like
Analysing data, building slides, client meetings, structuring problems.
Key skills
- Structured problem solving
- Excel & data analysis
- Presentation
- Business fundamentals
- Case interviews
Common tools
ExcelPowerPointSQLPower BINotion
Pros
- Open to all branches
- Fast learning
- Strong exit options
Cons
- Long hours
- Less technical depth
- Competitive entry
A 12-month starter roadmap
Months 1–3
- • Excel deeply
- • Case interview basics
- • Read business news
Months 4–6
- • SQL & Power BI
- • Practice 20 cases
- • Consulting club
Months 7–12
- • Analyst internship
- • Case competitions
- • Network with alumni
Reality check
Students like: Variety and fast-paced problem solving.
Students dislike: Making slides at midnight.
Hardest part: Communicating clearly under pressure.
Common myth: You don't need an MBA to start as an analyst.