I spent most of my college drinking and being lazy so I graduated with about a 2.6 GPA from a mediocre public school.

When it came time to find a job it was really hard to get an interview but I redid my resume 10x and practice interviews until eventually I landed an analysis position with a big bank. I knew I needed a solid name in my resume and solid performance there for a few years to make up for my shitty grades, and eventually land a consulting gig. It was just impossible to arrive out of college, but as an experienced associate, I had a shot. So I focused on making an impact and nailing projects to get quickly promoted, and to show I was capable of being given bigger responsibilities. The issue wasn't being able to do the job, it was giving the impression to others that I was capable.

After 2.5 years one of my peers was hired by a consulting firm. If he got hired I knew now I had a shot. So I applied online (stupid, I should have had him recommend me). I got lucky and got an interview, then some others and got the job.

I guess what I learned and my advice to you would be, don't take "no" for an answer, but accept "not now". It might take 5 jobs and 3 promotions after graduating before a big 4 gives you a look but if you set a plan and stick to it. You'll get there, if that's what you want to do.

In the end I quick consulting after 2 years. It was a great opportunity and I learned a ton but the sacrifice to my personal life was not worth it, for me. Other people can balance that better. But I couldn't. But it did open amazing doors for a career I'm really enjoying right now.