Be honest , did your top college tag help you break into Consulting or PM? Or was it all merit?

Hey folks, Genuinely curious and seeking honest perspectives here.

I've been reflecting on career paths lately especially in Product Management and Consulting and I can't help but notice how many professionals in these roles come from top-tier colleges (IITs, NITs, IIMs, BITS, ISB, global MIMs, etc.).

I graduated from a Tier 3 engineering college in 2024 (BTech in Mechanical), and although I’ve been upskilling and doing all the right things, getting shortlisted has been a huge hurdle. I had initially planned for a Master’s in Engineering Management abroad but had to postpone it due to visa and market conditions. Now I’m aiming for ISB or a global MIM program in 2026.

But here’s what I really want to ask:

👉 If you’re in PM or consulting and from a top college, do you feel your college tag gave you a strong edge in getting shortlisted or noticed? 👉 Or did you genuinely break in through hustle, merit, and network even in a tough market?

And on the flip side...

👉 How many of you (or someone you know) from a Tier 3 background actually made it to PM or consulting roles without a top B-school or brand name behind you?

Ignore the current job market and visa noise for a second , I want to understand how pedigree vs performance has played out in the long run for you.

I’m not trying to complain just want to set realistic expectations and maybe find inspiration from those who’ve been in a similar spot and still made it.

Would love to hear your stories, experiences, or any advice. 🙌