Andrew Shen, an associate consultant in Bain & Company’s New York office, balances a dynamic career with a passion for endurance sports, especially triathlon. In this Q&A, Andrew shares how he finds harmony between his high-impact consulting work and the demands of training for Ironman events.
1. Please tell us about yourself and your work at Bain.
I am an associate consultant based in the New York office and previously interned in the Boston office. I have worked in Bain’s private equity and general consulting roles across healthcare, life sciences, and consumer products.
2. When did you first start triathlon and what inspired you?
I attempted my first triathlon in 2021, but I didn’t start serious training for Ironman 70.3 until the summer before my Bain internship. Initially, I simply wanted to build healthy fitness habits during my college years that I could maintain throughout my career. I’ve come to really enjoy endurance sports and being able to spend time in nature while training is a huge benefit.
3. How do you balance training and work?
It’s not always easy, but I’m lucky to have a supportive team and boss who respect and value my routine outside of work. Training for an Ironman event usually means early morning sessions, squeezed into an hour or two before work begins.
Communication is key, whether it’s to stick to morning sessions or to arrange additional training time in the evening after work is finished early. Sometimes I train with other Bainies. I have fond memories of cycling with the Bain Boston PMC team and fellow Ironman enthusiasts from the New York office.
4. What motivates you in your professional and sporting activities?
Motivation can come from both intrinsic and extrinsic sources. External factors may help initially, but long-term sustainability comes from internalization, whether at work or in a triathlon. I find it rewarding to regularly reflect on my growth both professionally and in sport. Being able to have a positive impact on those around me in the community keeps me motivated, especially when I see more of my peers taking up sports to supplement their professional careers.
5. What advice would you give to someone balancing career and personal passions?
Don’t be shy. Whether it’s triathlon or any other passion, the best way to get started is to sign up for a qualifying event and start training right away. If you don’t start right away, valuable time actually pursuing your passion can be wasted evaluating it. The internet has enough information to get you halfway, and you can always improve your routine along the way.
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