By Ishaan Sharma, MBA2026
Consulting is one of the most sought-after career paths for MBA students—and it’s easy to see why! The thrill of solving complex problems, the chance to make a real impact, and the exposure to diverse industries make it an exciting, fast-paced ride. But let’s be honest: breaking into consulting isn’t a walk in the park. It takes structured prep, industry insights, and solid networking. That’s where the Consulting Club at London Business School comes in. Think of it as your personal GPS for navigating the consulting world. From sharpening case-solving skills to connecting you with top firms, the club provides everything you need to build a strong foundation and land that dream role. Whether you’re a newbie curious about consulting or a seasoned pro looking to level up, the club is your go-to resource for making it happen!
A Bit About Me
Hi, I’m Ishaan Sharma—a problem-solver, digital enthusiast, and consultant with a knack for turning big ideas into real impact. I spent 6 exciting years at McKinsey, starting as a Junior Analyst in the Digital Practice. Along the way, I climbed the ranks with three promotions, eventually becoming one of the youngest Associates (Specialising in Financial Services and Digital topics). My journey has taken me across the globe—from India to Singapore, Europe to the Middle East, and beyond—leading high-impact projects, building cutting-edge digital products, and shaping industry insights. I even had the chance to contribute to McKinsey Insights, publishing articles on the latest digital tech trends. In short, I thrive at the intersection of strategy, technology, and impact!
What is consulting ?
Consulting isn’t just about PowerPoint slides and number crunching—it’s about tackling big, messy problems and turning ideas into real impact. Think of it as a crash course in strategy, problem-solving, and stakeholder management, all rolled into one high-speed adventure. Ever heard the phrase, “one year in consulting equals three years in industry”? It’s true! The learning curve is steep, and the exposure is unmatched. One day, you’re working on a corporate restructuring in London; the next, you’re shaping a market entry strategy in the Middle East or driving a Fortune 500 digital transformation. It’s a career that keeps you on your toes and accelerates your growth like nothing else. But the real magic of consulting? Making a tangible difference. One of my most rewarding experiences was helping launch India’s first agriculture credit card, leveraging a $5B lending portfolio to boost financial inclusion for millions of farmers. Seeing strategy translate into real-world impact at the grassroots level—that’s what makes consulting truly exciting.
My Journey with the LBS Consulting Club
Landing a spot at LBS felt like the biggest admissions hurdle—until I decided to join the Consulting Club Junior ExCo. Turns out, even student clubs here make you earn your place! To get onto the Alumni Pillar, I had to go through two rounds of interviews with an alumni pillar lead and a co-president. When you’re surrounded by some of the sharpest minds in the world, competition is everywhere! But once in, the experience was incredible. One of my biggest projects? Organising the first-ever Consulting Conference, where senior partners from McKinsey, BCG, and Bain shared insights on the ever-changing consulting world. I also led the effort to build a comprehensive alumni repository, making it easier for students to connect with top industry professionals. Being part of the Consulting Club was a game-changer—it helped me dive deeper into the industry, expand my network, and pick up key skills along the way. More importantly, it reinforced a simple truth about consulting: collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning make all the difference. And let’s be real—it’s way more fun figuring things out together!
How the Consulting Club Supports Future Consultants at LBS
Think consulting is all about case cracking and slide decks? Sure—but at the LBS Consulting Club, it’s also about sharpening your skills, building an unbeatable network, and having a blast while doing it. Whether you’re gearing up for interviews, looking for insider tips from seasoned consultants, or just figuring out if consulting is your thing, this club has everything you need. From expert-led case workshops and structured coaching sessions to the Alumni Mentorship Programme, you’ll get direct access to LBS grads who’ve been there, done that. Want to take things up a notch? The Junior ExCo is where future consulting leaders shine, offering hands-on leadership across four key areas: Training & Development runs case prep and mentorship programmes, Alumni Engagement keeps the LBS consulting network strong, Events Management brings case competitions and speaker sessions to life, and Marketing & Outreach makes sure everyone knows about it. It’s competitive, it’s intense, and it’s one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll have at LBS.
What Does the LBS Consulting Club Offer?
One of the most dynamic and resource-packed student organisations on campus, the club goes beyond just prepping you for case interviews—it throws you straight into the action. Think high-stakes case competitions with top firms like BCG Early Careers, Strategy&, Visa Consulting & Analytics, and McKinsey, where you tackle real-world business challenges. We even took the Strategy& International Case Competition to the next level, drawing over 150 teams from 10+ business schools, making it a must-attend event. But that’s not all. Our structured peer mentorship programme ensures you’re not just practicing cases, but mastering them, while exclusive partnerships with leading consulting firms bring top-tier networking events, industry panels, and specialised workshops right to your doorstep. Whether you’re here to win competitions, land your dream job, or simply test the consulting waters, this club has something for you!
Whether you’re making a career switch or sharpening your consulting skills, the club offers top-notch resources, training, and mentorship to help you succeed. Ready to dive in? Feel free to reach out at isharma.mba2026@london.edu—always happy to chat about all things consulting!