Whether you are transitioning into consulting from a different industry or are heading there straight from the classroom, the interviewer is looking to see if you are really serious about this career move - that you have researched this industry, and will want to know why you chose this industry over where you have been and all of the other choices on your plate.

Firms know you'll probably leave - in 2-3 years, if you're normal - and they are comfortable with that payback cycle. However, the firm loses money on you in the first 6-12 months on the job - they invest heavily in training, and you are contributing very little. It's a risk to take someone on if they are not committed to the job - so when you answer the questions the interviewer should feel confident that you know about the industry and the company you are applying for.