Dorothee, Junior Consultant

Tell us about your path to Roland Berger!

I completed both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Management & Technology at the Technical University of Munich. Early on in my studies, I joined a student consulting organization, which, in retrospect, was one of the best decisions of my university years. In addition to working on “real-life” consulting projects as a freelancer, I was able to take on responsibility early as a board member. Internships and working student positions also gave me insights into various industries and very different types of companies.

What motivated you to be the first in your family to start studying?

Even in school, I had high expectations of myself. During my studies, I was driven by the ambition to open as many doors as possible through strong academic performance. Reflecting on this, it was also influenced by the fact that neither of my parents was able to fully shape their own career paths, for example due to lacking the prerequisites or facing financial constraints. I knew early on that I wanted things to be different for me. It quickly became clear that pursuing a degree would improve my opportunities in the job market. And since I come from a small Bavarian village, studying was also a way to “get out” and experience something new.

What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenges were primarily financial. Munich is an expensive place to study, and I knew I could only afford it if I worked alongside my studies from the very first semester. I ended up doing so throughout all six years. In hindsight, this also had a positive effect, as I gained extensive work experience – even though my initial motivation was mainly financial.

Another challenge became apparent in conversations with fellow students: In my Munich environment, most people’s parents had attended university, and at times I felt like the odd one out. Back then, I found it unfair that my parents could not always appreciate certain achievements the way I had hoped, or advise me on specific academic decisions. At the same time, I now believe it wasn’t easy for them either not to be able to fulfill that role, even though they likely would have wanted to.

What would you have liked to know earlier?

I wish I had known earlier about the many scholarships available at German universities. Unfortunately, I only looked into them quite late, which meant that for some programs I was no longer eligible due to my academic progress. Having financial support not dependent on family or personal income would have relieved a great deal of stress and concern. I might also have made certain decisions more freely – guided more by interest and less by practical considerations.

Is there anything you would do differently with your current knowledge?

I would start thinking more strategically about my path much earlier and spend less time in “survival mode.” As a FirstGen student, I often felt the need to constantly perform just to keep up. With a bit more confidence and composure, I would likely have allowed myself to make decisions more driven by interest rather than security. I would also actively seek out mentors earlier. I worked out many things on my own, which was valuable but also took a lot of energy. With today’s perspective, I would approach people who had already taken certain steps and deliberately ask for advice I could not receive at home.

What was particularly important to you as a FirstGen student during your job search/decision for an employer?

A key factor for me was choosing a path with manageable risk – meaning an established company rather than, for example, an early-stage startup. At the same time, becoming financially independent early on was very important to me. I was also drawn to consulting because it offers the opportunity to learn and gain exposure extremely quickly, allowing me to build professional and personal “assets” at a fast pace. Ultimately, what stood out at Roland Berger were the people. Additionally, I valued the awareness and active support for initiatives in which you can truly see yourself reflected, such as FirstGen.

Why did you decide to pursue a career at Roland Berger?

For two reasons: It was important to me to work within a structured and established framework while still being in a dynamic environment. For me, Roland Berger combines both – clear development paths alongside significant responsibility and room to shape your own journey. Beyond that, it was above all the people and the culture. I already felt during my internship that I was comfortable here. I also appreciate that topics such as diversity and initiatives like FirstGen are genuinely lived values rather than just words on paper.

How was your start at Roland Berger? And how do you like it now after some time in the company?

My start at Roland Berger was a very positive experience. It began with an intensive two-week kickoff together with new joiners from around the world. After that, I was staffed directly on my first project, which allowed me to explore a field new to me – procurement – while also getting to know many colleagues. As it was the holiday season, I was able to attend several social events, including the Christmas party, and reconnect with colleagues I already knew from my internship. Overall, it felt very welcoming to be “back.”

What has been the best experience you’ve had at Roland Berger so far?

I started at Roland Berger as part of the European Female Talent Program. This means that during my first two years, I will complete two office rotations in different European countries. Our cohort consists of eight colleagues from across Europe, and this network is already extremely valuable. During the kickoff and our first training in Madrid, we grew even closer. It is an inspiring group of motivated, intelligent women who each bring their own perspectives, and we learn a great deal from one another. My first rotation in Amsterdam starts in March, and I am very much looking forward to the experience, new colleagues, and a new environment.

What advice would you like to give to FirstGen students?

Look for initiatives in your city or at your university and build a FirstGen community. The exchange is truly valuable. And: Apply for scholarships as early as possible – ideally in your first Bachelor’s semesters. They can support you throughout your studies and significantly reduce the financial pressure.