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Taylor VanderToolen

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Share your journey to Bain.

I had no idea what management consulting was before I entered college. No one in my family had ever done consulting nor was I particularly close to anyone who had, so when I entered college at the University of Utah it wasn't on my radar whatsoever. I initially pursued internships in data analytics, where I enjoyed applying quantitative skills to solve tough problems. Still, I found myself wanting to step back and think about the bigger picture of the business, not just one part of it.

That’s when I was introduced to Bain by alumni from my school. Their experiences immediately resonated with me, and I knew this was the path I wanted to pursue. I invested time in preparing for case interviews, building out my resume with internships and extracurriculars, and eventually had the chance to visit the Chicago office. Every person I met reinforced the same message: Bain is a place where smart, driven people genuinely enjoy working together. I've been very grateful to start my career here!

Share some of your favorite work (personal or professional) you’ve done while at Bain.

Some of my most rewarding work has been with Bain’s Private Equity Group. I’ve had the chance to help build market perspectives on emerging industries, both in the US and internationally, as well as assess how trends like AI and tariffs could reshape specific companies or entire markets. I’ve especially enjoyed diving into innovative technologies and understanding how businesses succeed in winning over their customers.

What stands out the most, though, is the opportunity to tackle complex problems alongside incredibly sharp teammates who can distill complicated topics with clarity. One memorable project involved analyzing how pharmaceutical affordability trends might impact every stakeholder in the healthcare ecosystem, from providers and patients to manufacturers and insurers. This experience really reinforced how Bain combines analytical rigor with big-picture business thinking.

What advice would you give a candidate who is interested in recruiting for consulting?

My biggest piece of advice is: don’t be afraid to ask for an opportunity. I’ve found that many people (especially at Bain) are eager to help and generous with their time, so reaching out can open more doors than you might expect. If someone doesn’t respond, don’t be discouraged, it just means they weren’t the right person to support you in the first place.

At the same time, make sure you’re prepared when opportunities arrive. Have thoughtful questions ready, show up to conversations having done your homework, and take the time to practice case interviews. Demonstrating effort goes a long way in showing you’re serious about the role.