Hey guys! Does anyone have any advice for the CMS assessment day? I’ve panic-read (and reread) all the general advice about what sort of things to consider for the case study and not dominating or being too quiet in group settings but I’m still super nervous since it’s my first AC. I know I obviously can’t prepare for every possible scenario for the case study or group exercise but any information on what type of case studies they generally go for (if there’s a specific type - like mostly M&A) and what format they ask for (written answer/presentation/just getting asked questions about it) or whether there’s anything I should read up about for the “business-related task” in the group exercise would definitely help me mentally prepare/not be as panicked, and would be very much appreciated!!
I've not experienced CMS' AC but generally the case studies can be quite time pressured if you have to read a handful before you present/answer questions. So for now I'd advise on practicing your ability to digest information quickly by maybe reading articles and quickly summarising them in structured manner in however minutes you would have during the assessment.
The format is always dependent on the firm but most start with a mini presentation and then they will probe you further on whatever you've picked out. My advice would be to listen to their questions carefully because I've messed up before where I misheard something and answered something completely different. And they didn't correct me either!
Finally, don't panic before/during the AC! You've made it this far, it'd really be a shame to fall at the final hurdle because of something like this (having said that, it does happen so don't think you're alone). Think of it as an
amazing opportunity to either massively learn from or to obviously get a scheme - both are fab!! good luck!!!