"Comb the internet and read about the firms/cases/problems solved, and the testimonials of real-life consultants. Decide if the career path suits you or is where you want to start your career..."
"The intensive travel can wear people down depending on where you're going and what you're doing (and who you're staffed with)...Other downsides include the long hours (though these pale in comparison to Banking / PE, as you rarely work weekends), lack of impact (you aren't owning something end to end, ultimately you are just an advisor), and being subject to the whims of bad clients / broken organizations..."
"One thing that is not immediately obvious is that many top firms - BCG, Bain, McKinsey, Deloitte, Accenture, Altman, and a handful of others - will interview using the case method. You’ll need to study and practice the specific interview format to give yourself a chance in the interview..."
"You should be prepared to work long hours and travel frequently, which is great if you’re young but more challenging if you have a family..."