Headquarters: Boston, Mass.
Hiring plans: The firm is actively recruiting at about 20 U.S. colleges, said Mel Wolfgang, a BCG partner and head of recruiting in the Americas.
Most of BCG's U.S. consultants have business degrees, and the firm typically hires MBAs as consultants directly after they graduate.
What they're looking for: BCG wants curiosity, energy, leadership and teamwork skills, said Wolfgang.
"Most importantly, we look for authenticity," he added. "So when asked for tips before an interview, we typically advise, 'Be yourself!'"
If you nab an interview, be prepared to put your critical thinking skills to work on the spot; Wolfgang said the firm uses most interviews to explore how a candidate thinks about solving a business problem.
Why new grads want to work there: "You are exposed to some of the most cutting edge business issues," said Wolfgang, "and you are constantly challenged to work alongside very high caliber clients to overcome their once-in-a-career problems."
NEXT: 5. Apple
* Based on survey respondents who selected as one of their top 5 ideal employers. Methodology
