refine+focus

“As I pondered the prospect of an internship, I asked myself, "What is it that I truly seek?" A question that echoes in the hearts of many as they embark on this journey. If your sole desire is to bolster your resume with an illustrious name like MBB, perhaps refine+focus is not your ideal destination. However, if you yearn for a transformative experience, to emerge anew from the crucible of personal growth, then look no further. Refine+focus is a supportive environment where your potential is recognized and cultivated. Its two co-founders, Zach and Purnima, act as knowledgeable mentors who guide you through the process of self-discovery and skill development, even as they manage their own busy schedules and professional responsibilities. With their unwavering belief in your personal evolution, they place equal importance on your development as they do on business outcomes. The 18-day learning journal challenge at the outset of your internship serves as a cornerstone, inviting you to delve within and hone the essential skills of a consultant. Years later, as I applied for business school, I realized the profound impact of Zach's questions on my journey toward self-awareness. At refine+focus, you'll be embraced by a vibrant cohort and community—co-learning. A space that fosters curiosity, humility, and an eagerness to learn from one another. Every Wednesday, guest speakers illuminate the path ahead, shedding light on groundbreaking trends such as AI, Web3, and the Metaverse. A year has passed since I left the nurturing embrace of refine+focus, and my heart swells with gratitude for the memories etched within. I can confidently declare that refine+focus is a place where people come alive and flourish.”

“Zach and Purnima at refine+focus are some of the most hardworking, empathetic, and open-minded people I've had the pleasure of working with. They strove to create a learning environment that was supportive and collaborative as well as dynamic -- as an intern, I had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, from strategy to PR to digital marketing, within a curriculum that was tailor-made to my interests and goals. I felt valued and heard by the leadership as well as my peers, and throughout the summer I gained an immense amount of professional and personal experience that I still benefit from today. Z and P put their hearts into fostering a warm community and building a network of diverse and curious professionals, which I find all the more impressive considering I interned for them during the height of the pandemic. I feel extremely lucky and grateful to be a part of the r+f community and have had the chance to learn so much while working on impactful projects alongside some amazing people.”