‘’Soaring high is my nature, now and forever’

An associate at Bain & Company, she begins her day with a quick team check-in to define priorities and allocate responsibilities. Her work centres on Private Equity projects, including target screening, deal landscaping and due diligence. With multiple stakeholders involved, constant coordination is essential until the team finalises and submits the day’s output. Meet Soumitri Debroy, an alumna of Apeejay School, Kharghar

In a candid interview, she shares how school experiences shaped the skills that helped her succeed in a consulting firm.

What inspired you to pursue a career in consulting?

Consulting appealed to me for its constant problem-solving and the way it immerses you in real, evolving challenges. The variety of business issues keeps the work fresh and matches how I see my professional growth. My years at Apeejay School prepared me well for this pace, building both strong quantitative abilities and the communication skills that shaped my confidence beyond conventional classroom learning.

Challenges in transitioning from academics to a corporate environment.

I’ve always preferred working independently, which works well in academic settings but becomes a challenge in the corporate world. My naturally introverted nature also proved to be a roadblock, not so relevant in academics, but in the corporate space, it can slow down one’s professional growth.

How did school experiences shape the skills that help you succeed in a consulting firm?

Communication is essential in consulting, and I received tremendous opportunities to refine this skill through oratory competitions, class discussions, and Inter-school events. The AMUNs helped me approach global issues with nuance. Group activities at school also played a major role in shaping my ability to collaborate effectively.

Consulting often involves problem-solving and teamwork. How do you tackle these?

The key is to break down complex problems into manageable components and build solutions bottom-up while staying mindful of the bigger picture. We approach all problems with an “A1”—answer first. This means developing an initial hypothesis about the solution and then working to validate or challenge it based on available evidence. This mindset helps us tackle challenges efficiently and thoughtfully.

Advice for Apeejayites who aspire to work in top consulting firms.

I’d urge students to look beyond textbooks and stay curious about the world around them. Thinking on your feet, exploring deeper complexities and staying well-read are essential in business. Most importantly, know your value; understand what sets you apart and the strengths you consistently bring to any opportunity.