As explained briefly above, I am joining a firm like the big 3 (McKinsey, BCG, Bain) that recruits straight out of undergrad. Consulting firms and investment banks both have 2-3 year (on avg.) programs to "train" people in the business and then (usually) send them to B-school.

It is a lot of work, and the interview process was grueling to say the least, but I am really excited about the opportunities presented. Also, I love to travel, so spending time on the road will be fun too.

As for my particular firm's relationship with airlines, strangely, we don't have one and therefore I am little more than an individual. In fact, it is something I'd like to investigate for my firm to save us money.

Anyhow, back to the topic at hand though, I assume then that there is no particular luck in achieving status before actually earning it. Although I was silver once before, and have several upcoming trips, it seems like I'm out of luck. As a last ditch effort, to whom should I at least send an impassioned letter to plead my case? Thank you again everyone, and if anyone has any more management consulting questions or about the track in general, feel free to PM me.

Steven