Career transition from consulting back to economics
I studied economics for my bachelor’s, with a minor in business, at a top university in the Middle East.
After graduating, I spent around four years working in strategy and management consulting at a tier 1 firm in the Gulf. I learned a lot, but after thinking seriously about where I want my career to go, I realized I did not want to remain a generalist forever, constantly moving between industries and topics.
I decided to leave consulting and go back to economics by pursuing a master’s degree at a top university.
My question is: am I crazy for giving up the career prospects I had in consulting? Has anyone here made a similar transition?
I have a general idea of where I want to end up. I am interested in economic advisory and applied economics, but I am still unsure about doing a PhD. I do not see myself becoming a full time academic or professor. Ideally, I could see myself working in an economics related role in industry or advisory, while possibly teaching or lecturing on the side later in my career.
I am 25, so I know I still have time to figure things out, but I would really appreciate hearing from people who have taken a similar path or have experience in economics careers. I would especially value advice on whether this transition makes sense and what paths I should be considering from here.