University of Pretoria | BEng Chemical Engineering | UP Consulting Society EC | Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellow
Though this update comes considerably late, I have opted to still share it, now having had time to reflect on the experience. On the 1st of July, I commenced a 3 week Internship at the esteemed consulting firm Kearney, along with 5 other incredibly perceptive interns. The stated goal of the programme was to provide participants with a first-hand view of the consulting world and the skills it takes to thrive within it. Now I could tell you of the numerous software packages we learnt to use during the time. I could tell you of the consulting-specific skillsets we obtained (such as storylining and how to set up a proposal). I could speak of the many poignant lessons we learnt from our engagements with the full-time staff of the firm. And all of it would be true. But the greatest triumph of this internship was not just in what it taught me about consulting, but what it taught me about myself. During the internship I was forced to contend with uncertainty; as is often the case when presented with a problem that doesn't have just one correct answer. I had to consider my ability to perform as part of a collective, one that often had various views on how to achieve the goal. I had to navigate the corporate environment and the intricacies it entails. I learnt about my interpersonal strengths and weaknesses and the importance of being coachable. I had to confront the balance between confidence and humility; being able to demonstrate intelligence/competence while still acknowledging that there is still more to learn. Finally, I had to learn the importance of EQ in a culture-driven firm such as this one. And in all the aforementioned ways, I am a better professional (and a better person) for having had the opportunity to attend this wonderful internship. To that end, I am grateful to all who made this experience possible including, but not limited to, the Kearney recruitment team, the various mentors offered to us during the period, and the other 5 interns from whom I learnt a great deal.
University of Pretoria | Aspiring CA(SA) | Golden Key International Honour Society Member | Moshal Scholar | Final Year BCom Accounting Sciences Student
3moIncredible Sam! Congratulations on taking advantage of this amazing opportunity!