Pros
Resource Development Associates in a small consulting firm based in Oakland, CA. The work entails working on issues of social justice including criminal justice reform, mental health reform, health and education related work. I learned a great deal at my time at RDA including project management, working with clients, and got to really utilize my strengths and all my skills I learned throughout my educational programs. The work was fulfilling and I particularly appreciated when I was able to work directly with the community members on the projects. What I also enjoyed was the diversity of projects, it helped keep you on your feet. The culture was great, respectful, and always interested in continuous improvement. Colleagues are very intelligent, motivated, and really the place kind of feels like a small little family.
Cons
I would also stay the diversity of projects is a challenge as well. You must juggle lots of different projects at once. But that is also the work in consulting, so if that is something you feel is not your strength or that you don't want to do, don't go into consulting. Another challenge is to get professional development opportunities outside the company related events, such as workshops due to the fact it is a smaller firm with smaller profit margins. But there is interest in beefing that piece up. I also think the benefits package are not as generous as other companies, which is particularly a challenge in the Bay Area.