Sabine van der Laken, Associate
Study background
Studying Global Sustainability Science in Utrecht with a focus on Business & Innovation and Governance & Societal Transformation equipped me with an understanding of today's complex societal challenges. Recognizing the role of businesses in addressing these issues, I pursued further studies in Strategic Management in Rotterdam to integrate sustainability into business strategies and drive transformative changes within firms. My studies fostered a keen interest in various transitions, including those in energy and supply chains.
Why the Strategy& Business Course?
Participating in the 2022 Walk the Talk Business Course in Paris was an easy decision for me. Prior to applying, attending online events had already sparked my interest in Strategy&. I believed this course would provide unique insights into strategy consulting, enhancing my understanding of projects, people, and the distinctive culture at Strategy&.
The Business Course proved to be one of the most enjoyable recruitment events I've attended. Engaging with numerous consultants allowed me to gain diverse perspectives and experiences. Beyond professional interactions, the course provided opportunities for personal connections and unique activities, such as a cooking class and a treasure hunt through Paris. These experiences, along with a dinner in Amsterdam, revealed the close-knit and enjoyable culture at Strategy&.
Most memorable moments...
Personally, benefiting from the Business Course, I found the panel discussion with Strategy& employees to be particularly memorable. Featuring representatives from all levels of the organization, the panel fostered an open and honest discussion about successes, learning moments, and personal journeys. This transparency resonated with me, reflecting the open atmosphere that I've continued to experience since joining Strategy&. This culture encourages asking questions, values diverse perspectives, and promotes personal growth — a vital aspect in becoming the best version of oneself.
The Business Course provided a unique and enjoyable adventure to understand Strategy&'s culture, projects, and people. I highly recommend it to anyone keen on exploring strategy consulting and connecting with a dynamic and inclusive professional community.
"The most memorable moment was the panel Q&A featuring all levels of the firm, fostering an open and honest discussion about successes, learning moments and personal journeys."
Sabine van der Laken,Associate Strategy& AmsterdamAyanna Berg, Associate
Study background
With a background in Biomedical Sciences and Political Philosophy, my academic journey provided me with a diverse foundation. Keen on a career in Strategy Consulting, I identified Strategy& as my top choice for its focus industries. To ensure a cultural fit, I joined the S& Business Course in 2023, seeking a more in-depth experience than a one-day event could offer.
Why the Strategy& Business Course?
The Business Course proved instrumental in gaining insights into the nuances of strategy consulting and understanding the day-to-day activities at Strategy&. Interacting with people at the firm was particularly valuable, revealing a culture where everyone seemed to genuinely enjoy working together. This realization solidified my desire to work at Strategy&.
The course not only provided professional insights but also influenced my interview enthusiasm during the final round. The positive energy from the Business Course enhanced my ability to express my eagerness for joining Strategy&.
Most memorable moments...
Reflecting on the most memorable moments, the presentations on the last day and the dinner the night before stood out. The group presentations showcased the diverse approaches teams took to solve a common problem, offering a comprehensive view after a week of collaborative effort. The dinner, a gathering of nearly half the firm, allowed me to ask questions, observe interactions, and further confirm the welcoming and enjoyable culture at Strategy&.
To conclude, the S& Business Course was a transformative experience that solidified my career choice and provided valuable insights into the firm's culture.
"The Final night's dinner, a gathering of nearly half the firm, allowed me to ask questions, observe interactions, and further confirm the welcoming and enjoyable culture at Strategy&."
Ayanna Berg,Associate Strategy& AmsterdamLeon Broos Spaans, Associate
Study background
I began my academic journey in Groningen, pursuing a bachelor's degree in Economics & Business Economics followed by a master's in Business Administration. Throughout my time in Groningen, I realized that I like to work on economic issues in a broader sense. After wrapping up my studies there, I relocated to Rotterdam to study Health Economics. The fields that captivated my interest during these programs the most match some of the practices that Strategy& focuses on, which motivated me to apply for the business course.
Why the Strategy& business course?
During the final phase of my studies, I was actively exploring the strategy consulting field. As mentioned before, the industries where Strategy& is active intrigued me. I viewed the 2024 Walk the Talk Business Course as a great opportunity to delve deeper into this interest and to determine whether the company's culture would fit me. And honestly, Paris seemed like the perfect backdrop for this experience! I had the best time there and during the Business Course I was able to see how Strategy& works and how the people interact with each other. This information was extremely helpful in making my decision!
Most memorable moment...
Paris was beautiful and the time we had there was a ton of fun but, looking back, I must say that the final days of the Business Course in Amsterdam were the most memorable to me. During the dinner and the club night, we got to meet a large part of the Amsterdam team. Actually being in the office talking to several consultants helped in shaping an idea of what it is like to work at Strategy&. All in all, the business course was an experience where I learned a lot but where I had a great time above all - I would recommend it to anyone interested in strategy consulting.
To conclude, the S& Business Course was a transformative experience that solidified my career choice and provided valuable insights into the firm's culture.
"I had the best time there and during the Business Course I was able to see how Strategy& works and how the people interact with each other. This information was extremely helpful in making my decision!"
Leon Broos Spaans,Associate Strategy& Amsterdam
Amsterdam Recruiting Team
Thank you for your interest in Strategy&. The Amsterdam Recruiting Team looks after all recruiting activities for our Amsterdam office. We are here to help you with any questions you may have about the firm, our activities on campus and the application process. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you need further assistance.
