“Booz Allen offers me the opportunity to explore avenues for growth that I had not identified prior to joining the firm.”

Rashidah Hardwick

, Senior Consultant

Why did you choose Booz Allen?

I value variety and chose Booz Allen because of the firm’s commitment to bringing individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences together. I am surrounded by people who are very accomplished and knowledgeable in their fields. I also appreciate the wide selection of projects available to me, and the experiences that come with being exposed to the inner workings of our national government in a way that most people may never experience.

How has Booz Allen helped you prepare for a career as a consultant?

My colleagues love their work and it shines through in the quality of the firm’s service offerings. As a consultant, you are defined as much by your reputation as by the work that you do. At Booz Allen, I enjoy the best of both worlds. I have participated in forums that outlined opportunities in the intelligence field, in which I am deeply interested. At another forum, I participated in a dialogue with State Department officials and identified potential opportunities. The Discover Government Consulting course was very helpful in providing me with the proper way to interact with government clients where I might otherwise have been unsuccessful.

Do you have a mentor at Booz Allen?

One of my informal mentors has a wealth of experience and has assisted me in avoiding pitfalls. I have benefitted from this relationship by having someone who is receptive to address my questions. He is always willing to provide advice that will benefit my career long term. I have another informal mentor who is equally open and accessible, who gives me career direction from a woman’s point of view. I value her perspective because I hope to be a career mom someday.

What is the most important thing that working at Booz Allen has taught you about yourself?

I’ve learned that I should not limit myself. I have many talents that can be used in a variety of ways. Booz Allen offers me the opportunity to explore avenues for growth that I had not independently identified prior to joining the firm.

What do you find most interesting or compelling about your work?

In the government sector, I get to work for the greatest nation on earth. I am doing my part for my country.

Describe a time when you saw one or more of the firm’s Core Values in action.

Diversity: At my first home team meeting at headquarters in McLean, I saw faces from every corner of the world.

Excellence: Every deliverable I submit is reviewed in the context of the firm’s standard for excellence. My colleagues offer suggestions and ideas that are both creative and practical.

Fairness: I serve as the co-administrator for my team’s iShare site. Out of respect for each other’s workload, my teammate and I allocate responsibilities equally.

Integrity: My colleagues follow the rules and are genuinely good people.

Respect: Leadership at the firm has always addressed me in a respectful and inviting tone. I never feel that my voice is not being heard.

Trust: I frequently seek the advice of my mentors and team members because I trust their judgment.