Year-to-Year Consulting Guide
During your first year, your goal is to start exploring and building a base of skills and experience. Most consulting firms don't offer internships until third year, so you can pursue any summer experience that will help you build strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Fall Quarter
Build a resume with your career adviser
Apply for an on-campus job to start gaining experience
Start networking with employers by applying for a Winter Break career trek or job shadowing experience
Join a business RSO focused on an area that interests you
Sign up for the Business Bulletin newsletter to get regular updates on internships and upcoming events
Make a habit of reading business news - as a UChicago student, you get free access to the online editions of leading publications such as The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times
Winter Quarter
Apply for selective business career programs like the Trott Business Program
Continue networking by applying for a Spring Break career trek or job shadowing experience
Attend the "What is Consulting?" industry overview workshop
Register for consulting case competitions
Spring Quarter
Attend on-campus consulting firm presentations to gain industry and firm-specific insights
Register on Handshake for Consulting Career Intensive taking place September 22-24, 2026
Summer
Complete a summer opportunity: any summer experience that gives you exposure to the business world or helps you build analytical, data, and problem-solving skills will put you in a strong position for consulting
Sample summer opportunities that are great for consulting:
Startup internships
Data analysis internships
Business development internships
Economics research assistantships
Nonprofit strategy and management internships
Strengthen Excel and PowerPoint skills through free LinkedIn Learning courses available to UChicago students