At McKinsey, consulting isn't just a job; it's a dynamic, transformative experience. Working here means being part of a team that thrives on solving complex problems and driving meaningful change for clients across industries and continents. With a relentless focus on innovation, collaboration, and impact, McKinsey consultants tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges, helping organizations navigate uncertainty, capitalize on opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. It's a journey of continuous learning, growth, and unparalleled impact, where every day brings new opportunities to make a difference.
Transitioning from McKinsey to INSEAD marks a pivotal moment in anyone’s career journey. Such is the inspiring story of Vanshika, one of our successful candidates. From collaborating with top talent and tackling diverse challenges across industries and geographies at McKinsey, she is already making waves in the business world.
In our dialogue, she offered valuable insights into her application journey, career progression, application strategies, and guidance for aspiring candidates. Explore her narrative below.
MBA After Consulting: Professional Background and Why MBA?
What a journey it's been! Growing up in Chennai, landing an internship at Google, and then diving into the world of consulting with McKinsey—it's been a rollercoaster of learning and growth. Initially, I was all about public policy and changing lives, but my experiences at Google and McKinsey broadened my perspectives. I realized I could still make a difference within big organizations that share my values.
Starting as a research analyst and then climbing the ranks to become an expert consultant in the people practice was a whirlwind. Travelling across Asia, from Vietnam to Thailand to Singapore and Bombay, exposed me to diverse cultures and business landscapes. It was incredibly eye-opening and rewarding.
While consulting feels like my natural fit, lately, I've been craving a change of scenery. Europe and the Middle East have captured my interest as intriguing options. Now, I'm at a crossroads, figuring out what's next. Pursuing an MBA feels like the right move—it's a chance to further develop my skills, explore new opportunities, and carve out a path where I can continue making an impact, both professionally and personally.
The MBA program offers a direct gateway to those regions, which is really appealing. Consulting has been my bread and butter, something I've genuinely enjoyed and excelled at. Returning to it would be fantastic. However, I'm also open to the idea of taking a detour through the MBA route, picking up some new skills, and then diving into consulting in Europe and the Middle East. It's all about seizing the opportunities that come my way and making the most of them.
Choosing INSEAD: The Right Fit for My Global MBA Journey
I got instantly connected to INSEAD. It's like everything fell into place naturally. Initially, I admit, my approach to choosing MBA programs was pretty broad—aiming for the top ten without much research beyond rankings. But as I delved deeper into the process, I realized the importance of finding the right fit.
Through conversations, research, interviews, and meeting alumni and current students, INSEAD stood out to me. There was a genuine connection that went beyond just academic considerations. Maybe it's because of my sister's background in France and my exposure to French culture, but INSEAD felt like a place where I could truly see myself.
Personal connections aside, INSEAD's outcomes aligned perfectly with what I was looking for. A one-year program with excellent ROI, nestled in Fontainebleau's charming setting, is an opportunity I couldn't pass up. The diversity of experiences and perspectives at INSEAD resonated with me, reflecting the varied experiences I've had and the desire to continue embracing diversity in my education and beyond.
I'm thrilled at the opportunity to learn and build a network in both Europe and Asia. I strongly believe that Asia is where the future lies. However, I've noticed that some standalone Asian universities don't rank as highly as others. That's why I was particularly drawn to the top five MBA programs that offer direct access to Asia. These programs not only provide top-tier education but also invaluable connections and opportunities in the dynamic Asian market.