My First Semester at CBE: Experience as a New Analyst

BY: RICHARD WANG ’28

Walking into CBE: A Leap into the Unknown

When I joined CBE this spring, I wasn’t sure what I was walking into. I had heard stories — late nights in Lamont Library, presentations with real clients, spontaneous bonding events involving an absurd amount of delicious food — but I had no idea how CBE would fit into my already packed life as a student-athlete.

To add to my initial anxiety, I didn’t have much consulting or business experience. What I did have, however, was a deep appreciation for teamwork and a strong desire to find a community as close-knit as the one I have on the Harvard Wrestling team. I was looking for a group that cared about each other, pushed each other to improve, and actually had fun doing it.

Fortunately, that is exactly what I found. From my case team to my sibfam, and everyone I’ve met along the way, CBE has given me the same kind of camaraderie, accountability, and shared purpose that I value so much in athletics — just in a totally different arena.

Casework: A Rewarding Trial by Fire

Going into my first case, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I knew the work would involve research and slide making, but I didn’t realize how hands-on and fast-paced the experience would be.

From the very beginning, I was contributing to meaningful conversations, helping shape recommendations, and working on deliverables that would actually be presented to a real client.

As a new analyst, the learning curve was steep. Assignments weren’t simply about conducting surface-level research — I was diving deep to analyze real-world business problems and present recommendations to real people. That sense of responsibility was daunting at first but quickly became motivating. There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching your slides show up in a final client deck and knowing you helped to shape the story.

What stood out the most was how collaborative the process was. Whether it was through team meetings, late-night calls, PowerPoint edits, or brainstorm sessions, I always felt supported. That support extended beyond just the work itself — from casual snacks during team meetings to extravagant (and questionably high-budget) dinner outings, I’ve genuinely grown attached to my case team, not just as collaborators, but as friends.

Midpoint dinner at Ebi Sushi!

Balancing It All: CBE, Athletics, and Life

Now, about the elephant in the room: the time commitment. Balancing casework with training, classes, and (ideally) sleep was not easy at first. However, what helped tremendously was just how understanding and flexible everyone was.

I’ve joined Zoom calls and hopped on interviews sweaty post-practice, brainstormed ideas on bus rides, and learned how to make the most out of 30-minute pockets of time between commitments.

And surprisingly, having CBE in the mix has made me better at managing my time. You learn quickly how to prioritize, communicate when stretched thin, and trust your teammates to have your back — both on and off the field.

Community That’s Actually… Fun?

I thought CBE’s "sibfams" were just another gimmick when I first heard about them. I was wrong.

The sibfams split the organization into random groups, each led by a board member and a mix of other roles. My sibfam has become a real source of support (and excellent meme content) throughout the semester. From casual check-ins and hangouts to all-you-can-eat dinners, this “gimmick” has been a great way to connect with people outside my case team and across class years.

All-you-can-eat hotpot at Gyu-Kaku!

Another one of my favorite parts of CBE has been the engagement events. Each semester, members can sign up for major group outings — from cheering on the Red Sox at Fenway Park to running high-ropes courses. There are also surprise ticket drops throughout the semester, released on a first-come, first-served basis. When that happens, the org-wide chat explodes into pure chaos.

It’s always hilarious to watch everyone suddenly spring to life at the hint of a ticket to the Kendrick & SZA concert this past May.

This semester, I managed to snag a spot to see Swan Lake performed by the Boston Ballet. Sitting in the theater with a group of fellow analysts, I was struck by how unique it is to be part of an organization that encourages you to explore new experiences. It wasn’t just a fun night — it was a reminder that CBE is about building a well-rounded, curious community, not just prepping for your next case interview.

Swan Lake!

Looking Ahead

I’m only one semester in, but I already feel like I’ve grown in ways I would have never predicted. There are so many great aspects of being in CBE that I’ve loved — from study breaks to board-led pre-professional workshops that somehow manage to be both relaxing and inspiring.

And yes, I’ve eaten a lot of free food.

However, those perks would mean nothing without the amazing community that makes it all possible — the people who show up, support each other, and make every moment feel like something worth being a part of.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering joining CBE — whether you’re a pre-med with zero business experience, an econ major with consulting dreams, or someone who just wants to be part of something challenging and fun — I say: go for it.

You’ll find support, growth, and most importantly, people who genuinely want to see you succeed.