Kirby McMullen
Kirby McMullen is a 2018 politics & international affairs graduate who works as an Analyst with The Avascent Group. In this role he is a strategy consultant for companies operating in government-driven sectors. From aerospace & defense to technology & healthcare, he works on behalf of clients operating in those markets to drive growth, primarily through strategic development projects and transaction advisory engagements.
What advice would you give students who have an interest in consulting?
First, practice with case studies, as they’re going to be a part of most interview processes you come across. Second, I would say the best thing you can do is read and absorb knowledge about industries you’re interested in. Whether that is reading the Journal, reading white papers and market thought leadership, listening to podcasts, or anything else, having that intimate and detailed knowledge of specific markets you’re interested in can really set you apart in an interview and impress firms you’re looking to join.
What WFU career resources did you utilize that were most helpful to you?
Handshake was helpful from an opportunity sourcing perspective to see what’s out there. The OPCD was great in terms of resume refinement, career coaching, and interview prep assistance. Finally, I’d say talk to professors. They were super helpful, especially senior year, in talking about various opportunities and discussing more generally life & career advice.
What courses, activities or experiences gave you an edge in the job search process?
Nothing really in particular. Being a politics & international affairs major, my biggest concern sophomore year was having a lack of business acumen when I started my job search. What really helped bridge that gap was doing the Summer Management Program before junior year, as well as the entrepreneurship minor, which was really good with providing students hands-on opportunities to learn about business principles, as well as giving us a glimpse into what successful entrepreneurs have done throughout their lives and careers.
What specific advice would you give regarding effective networking?
Be open and ask questions. Never pass up an opportunity to meet and talk with someone. You never know where that connection could lead and where you could cross paths down the road. Asking detailed questions can show a contact that you’re generally interested in their career and life, and that you’re not just treating them as a transactional connection.
What specific advice would you give to students regarding effective interviewing?
Be yourself. Don’t try to fit into any preconceived mold that you think the interviewers or the firm you’re interested in want you to be. More and more, firms welcome unique and diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, as those things are what truly can make an organization special and differentiate itself. Don’t sell yourself short or lose confidence just because in your head you don’t see yourself as “the ideal candidate.” Your background and life experiences are the best asset you have.
Are there any books, magazines, websites, etc. that you would recommend to students who are interested in consulting?
Case in Point for case study practice is super helpful. In terms of general industry knowledge, the WSJ, Bloomberg, Reuters, and others are always helpful when you’re trying to learn more about a specific sector. Finally, if and when you are interviewing, I’d suggest reading the firm’s 10-K (if they’re public) beforehand, as that will give you a head start in terms of firm specific knowledge and background.