FAQ

See below for a few questions that are commonly heard at our information session events. If you have alternative concerns, please email us at cornellconsultingclub@gmail.com or use our contact form. 

What is consulting?

Consulting is about helping organizations solve problems. These problems are wide-ranging. One week, a consultant may be developing a technology strategy for a bakery. A few weeks later, the same consultant may find herself helping a defense contractor price their newest line of explosives. 

What is the difference between Cornell Consulting and the other consulting organizations? 

First and foremost, we believe that the other consulting organizations do provide great learning opportunities for undergraduates. At the end of the day, the most important factor should be whether or not you fit in with a club's culture. However, should your cultural decision reach an impasse, there are many distinctions that can be made. From a project experience standpoint, Cornell Consulting's competitive advantage comes with its variety of clients. Our clients have been among the largest companies in the world as well as among the smallest regional startups. We also address issues in both for-profit and non-profit realms, meaning that if you are looking for a socially impactful experience, Cornell Consulting can provide that as well. From an educational standpoint, the advantage is multifaceted. Primarily, we are the only consulting organization that hosts a public education series. This is due to the fact that we are Cornell's main resource for undergraduate consulting needs. Moreover, our internal resources are well endowed. Our partnerships with consulting prep websites and our Alumni Board of Directors make for a powerful learning experience for engaged members. Having current and ex-consultants (from firms such as McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, and others) provide mentorship also ensures a legitimate learning process. 

I have many academic and extra-curricular commitments. What is the time commitment like?

New Business Analysts are expected to commit 10-15 hours per week minimum. However, these commitments can be variable. Pressing deadlines and high-intensity client projects may require a higher level of commitment. There may also be weeks of 5-10 hour commitments. Do note that our members have found that the more time they put into their work the more they have gotten out of the projects. That said, many of our members are able to balance several on-campus commitments and difficult majors without stress. 

I'm a freshman with little professional experience (internships, jobs, etc.). Will I still be considered for the Business Analyst program? 

Absolutely. We primarily accept Freshmen and Sophomores. Each grade is evaluated with different criteria. Freshmen applicants are analyzed based on their potential (i.e. high school leadership accolades) and interview performance as opposed to their college experiences. 

How does Cornell Consulting operate as a consulting organization?

Every semester, our members are staffed onto client projects. We typically source 3-4 clients per semester, giving our members a choice among a diverse slate of firms and industries. Though team members fill a specific role on the project (analyst, associate, or project manager), everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute, offer feedback, and influence the direction of the engagement. Project teams meet regularly to review deliverables, work collaboratively, and set strategy. Team members also have the opportunity to meet regularly with their client. Beyond project work, we have an executive board that oversees organizational operations and heads strategic leadership and visioning.