Been at a top 3 firm for 4 months now post-MBA. Non traditional background and constantly feel like I'm behind and never going to catch up. Is quitting after a year the most terrible thing to do?

What were you doing before? If this is your first consulting gig, then hang in there. Was lost my first three months here. There's no words to describe how easy/natural it has become

If you're going to keep the attitude of, "I'm behind and never going to catch up"...you'll likely get counseled out anyways...have a more positive outlook and you'll figure it out

4 mos is not that long a time, re-evaluate at the end of a year and see if you still want to leave. And no, it's not a terrible thing. One of my friends and ex-coworkers left the firm after 3 mos and still went on to do great things.

There is a difference between feeling insecure at work and disliking it. If it's the first, fake it till you make it! If it's the second start looking but I wouldn't leave until you have a year of tenure under your belt.

A lot of my friends from bschool left their top 3 consulting firm job within the first year

You may not realize it, but EVERYONE feels like they are behind when they start. Some people just aren't as transparent about it. If you like the job, no harm in waiting to see if it works or if they push you out. And know that 2nd year is the best year. You'll have more experience and get staffed on better stuff.

Thanks so much for the advice everyone...super super helpful. I do think the phrase fake it till you make it describes everyone's first year. going to give it my 200% the next few months and stay positive. Everyone roots for the underdog right? 😊

I hated it the first three months .my teams n work both were shit .on almost a year n half now .still hate it but gotten much easier . Much much easier .you are not alone in feeling you are behind .i guess it happens to everyone new to consulting