The Admissions Process

Deciding if getting your MBA is the right next step for your professional and personal goals may seem like a daunting process and it may be helpful to run a list of personal pros- and cons- before you decide to embark on the application adventure.

The most important question you will want to ask yourself, and answer it OUT LOUD to family and friends is “WHY DO I WANT TO GET AN MBA". Your ability to answer this question with depth and conviction will be incredibly helpful as you begin your journey. It may seem like a fairly easy answer “better job opportunities, resume building, networking, academic challenge...." but it is critical that you develop this answer for yourself as it will help you keep sight of your "mission" during the application cycle.

The application process itself can take as long as a year, factoring in preparation for the GMAT exams, resume, essay and recommendations. This, in addition to the commitment to move cities, give up earned income, and the cost of tuition, should certainly be considered. It may be helpful to make your own list, or to chat with family and friends about your plans so that you can have an honest discussion about the experience that lies ahead.

The application process itself is not something that can be accomplished in a month, or two. Most applicants find that they need to begin thinking about the process at least a year before they decide to actually do so. While this may seem like a long timeline, it is necessary to complete all of the components in a timely and exacting way. Each part of the process, from the GMAT to essay writing, recommender preparation, and interview practice, takes diligence and patience.

It is helpful to set a calendar by which you hit certain productivity marks by certain days; otherwise, it is possible to wait until it is too late to achieve any of the pieces of the puzzle in a way that will allow you to be a viable candidate in the pool. The process requires much dedication and willingness to really “give it your all”!

We have found that it is incredibly helpful to have an advocate on your side; a trusted guide to help encourage you throughout the process, and not only act as a sounding board, but a realistic coach to support you each step of the way. The application process requires a great deal of self-awareness and will power; working with our team of experienced consultants, you will not only have incredible resources at your disposal, but you will have the eyes and ears of an MBA graduate who went through the process just as you are now!