Campus Spotlight: Ava Ekhteraei
An Analyst’s Insights on Why a Growth Mindset and Perseverance Are the Keys to Overcoming Any Career Obstacle
Ava Ekhteraei is an Analyst in Alvarez & Marsal’s (A&M) Private Equity Performance Improvement (PEPI) practice in Paris, France. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Institut National des Langues et Civilisations Orientales (Inalco) and a master’s degree from Sciences Po Paris.
In this Q&A, Ava, a first-generation Parisian with parents from Iran, shares insights from her journey at A&M. Reflecting on her college experience, she highlights the lessons learned from navigating unfamiliar terrain to pursue her master's degree in finance and strategy. Ava emphasizes the importance of personal attributes like adaptability and effective communication in her field, underlining ongoing self-improvement through professional development and mentorship. Ava discusses her hobbies and their benefits for personal and professional development outside of work. Finally, she reflects on the best advice she's received— that hard work pays off— and how it has shaped her journey towards achieving her goals.
Reflecting on your college experience, what unexpected lessons or insights have you gained that have significantly impacted your career?
Coming from a background where my parents were foreigners from Iran and unfamiliar with the French educational system, I had to navigate unfamiliar territory to gain admission to Sciences Po for a master's degree in finance and strategy. This experience taught me the importance of autonomy, resilience and overcoming obstacles. I learned that the will to succeed can bridge those gaps even when resources and familial support are limited. This lesson helped me advance in my studies and continues to guide my career, reminding me that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and success.
Why did you choose to intern at A&M?
I chose to intern at A&M because I was seeking an opportunity that would provide me with a blend of finance-oriented work and consulting exposure. Hearing about the positive experiences the private equity fund I was collaborating with had with Alvarez & Marsal intrigued me. My decision was reinforced after conversing with a former Intern and Analyst who spoke highly of the team's skill set and the collaborative atmosphere within the firm, and I was also drawn to the prospect of:
- Quickly building expertise through exposure to a high volume of deals and the mentorship provided by seasoned professionals.
- Being deeply involved in the strategic aspects of private equity transactions allowing me to contribute meaningfully.
What motivated your decision to join A&M full-time?
The decision to join A&M full-time was fueled by several key factors. The team's welcoming ambiance and supportive culture resonated deeply with me, fostering an environment where I felt valued and encouraged to grow. Also, the allure of a steep learning curve was undeniable and the opportunity to continuously expand my skills and knowledge was incredibly enticing. Moreover, the team's diverse makeup added another layer of appeal, offering the chance to collaborate with individuals from varied backgrounds and perspectives.
Which office are you based in, and how would you describe the office culture?
I am based in the Paris office, and I would describe the office culture as vibrant and dynamic. Being part of the PEPI team in Paris has opened a world where the entrepreneurial spirit thrives, and growth is based on merit. Collaborating with such highly talented and fun people has not only honed my skills but also immersed me in an environment deeply dedicated to openness and inclusivity.
How to Effectively Navigate and Overcome Early Career Challenges
Reflecting on your career's early stages, what unexpected challenges did you encounter, and how did you navigate them to emerge stronger?
Reflecting on the early stages of my career, I encountered several unexpected challenges: One of the main hurdles was adapting to the fast-paced and demanding nature of the finance and consulting industry. Coming from a background with limited familiarity with such environments, I had to learn to navigate complex projects and quickly meet tight deadlines. Transitioning from academia to the professional world presented challenges, particularly in practical application and real-world problem-solving. Additionally, establishing credibility and gaining the trust of clients and colleagues as a young professional required perseverance and dedication. To navigate these challenges and emerge stronger, I focused on several strategies: I sought mentorship from experienced colleagues who provided invaluable guidance and support. Their insights helped me better understand industry dynamics and navigate complex situations more effectively. Furthermore, I actively sought out opportunities for continuous learning and skill development. Whether through formal training programs or hands-on project experiences, I embraced every chance to enhance my capabilities and expand my knowledge base. Additionally, I prioritized building solid relationships and networks within the industry. Collaborating with diverse teams and engaging with professionals from different backgrounds broadened my perspective and provided a support system during challenging times.
What crucial skills or qualities do you believe students should prioritize developing to thrive in the consulting industry, and how can they best prepare themselves?
In the consulting industry, crucial skills and qualities students should prioritize developing include strong analytical abilities, effective communication skills, adaptability, problem-solving skills and the ability to work well in teams. Students can best prepare themselves by seeking internships or co-op opportunities, participating in case competitions, honing their data analysis and presentation skills and staying informed about industry trends and developments through networking and professional development activities.
Looking back, what advice would you offer recent graduates about effectively transitioning from academia to the professional world?
My advice for recent graduates transitioning from academia to the professional world would be to remain open-minded, proactive and adaptable. Embrace new challenges and opportunities for learning, seek mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals and continuously work on developing both technical and soft skills. At A&M, I've found that people are incredibly supportive and understanding of our early career stage. The more experienced team members are also there not just to delegate tasks but to actively mentor and guide us. This fosters a high learning curve, where knowledge is shared generously between seasoned professionals and newcomers, contributing to our rapid skill development and growth within the company. My advice is to embrace this supportive environment, seek out mentorship opportunities and don't hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification when needed.
Essential Skills to Develop to Achieve Success in the Consulting Industry
What personal attributes or traits are essential for success in your field, and how do you continually nurture and develop these qualities within yourself?
Adaptability, problem-solving skills, effective communication, resilience and a strong work ethic are among the essential qualities that enable professionals to thrive. I prioritize ongoing learning and self-improvement to nurture and develop these qualities within myself continually. I actively seek opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills through professional development programs, workshops and industry events. I also make a concerted effort to stay informed about emerging trends and best practices in my field, allowing me to adapt to changing circumstances and challenges.
Additionally, I believe in the power of mentorship and seek guidance from experienced professionals who can offer valuable insights and advice. Their mentorship helps me navigate complex situations and provides opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Lastly, I regularly reflect on my experiences and seek feedback from colleagues and supervisors to identify areas for improvement and growth. By embracing a growth mindset and remaining open to feedback, I continually strive to enhance my abilities and become a more effective and successful professional.
Why Early Career Professionals Must Nurture Networks, Seek Mentors and Foster Relationship Building
How do you approach networking and building professional relationships, and what tips would you offer to others just starting?
I approach networking and building professional relationships by prioritizing authenticity, genuine interest in others and adding value whenever possible. I believe in building relationships based on mutual respect and trust, and I strive to maintain open lines of communication and follow up regularly with contacts. Some tips I would offer others just starting include attending industry events and conferences, leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn and seeking informational interviews with professionals in fields of interest.
What are some notable perks or benefits you've experienced working in the consulting industry?
Working in the consulting industry offers several notable perks and benefits, including exposure to diverse industries and clients, opportunities for rapid skill development and career advancement and the chance to work on high-impact projects that drive meaningful change. Consulting firms often provide competitive salaries, generous benefits packages and opportunities for travel and professional development, making it an attractive career choice for many professionals.
What's your favorite hobby or activity outside of work, and how did you get into it?
Outside of work, I've recently started pursuing theater as a hobby, fulfilling a long-standing desire. Additionally, I've begun rock climbing, particularly bouldering, this year. Engaging in these activities has provided me with personal fulfillment and proven beneficial for my consulting career. Theater has enhanced my communication and presentation skills and my ability to think on my feet and adapt to different situations—skills that are highly valued in consulting, where effective communication and quick thinking are essential. Similarly, rock climbing has taught me problem-solving, strategic planning and resilience.
What's the best advice you've ever received, and how has it influenced your life?
The best advice I've ever received is the timeless wisdom that hard work pays off. Throughout my (young) life, I've been reminded that with determination, resilience and a clear goal, no obstacle is insurmountable. This advice has profoundly influenced my approach to challenges and goals, instilling in me a belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to with dedication and perseverance. It's been a guiding principle that has driven me to push through difficulties, stay focused on my objectives, and ultimately, realize my aspirations. Whether in academics, career pursuits or personal endeavors, this advice has been a constant reminder that with diligent effort and unwavering determination, success is not just a distant dream but an attainable reality.
