Modeling in all quads and then just triangulating isn't the most efficient way of modeling for games. All you're doing is just doubling the geometry that you already have, instead of optimizing it. Triangulation should be done by hand to get the best results so you can reduce unnecessary geometry along the way. There are different ways depending whether you're modeling hard surface or organics.

An art test for most game studios will give you a concept piece and a poly count limit in tris. 7 to 10k is average for a fully dressed figure but the limits go up and down depending on who you ask.