nj_for_mba wrote:
Hi Linda,
I have a coworker who is rushing headlong into MBA app process at top-tier schools without much study and forethought. He is trying to make tight deadlines and is taking his GMAT sooner than he has to. Based on our interaction and also on his approach (not knowing deadlines, not understanding the process), I know that he has not given the MBA the careful thought and introspection that I think it requires. I get the impression that he's looking for an out to his current situation much more than he is looking for an in to a focused career track.
Any advice on what to tell him? If he does not get in with his scattershot approach, is he digging himself a large hole in the reapplication process? What have you seen in terms of success of such applicants? I will not say anything unless he brings it up - I'm not dumb enough to sprinkle unsolicited advice of this nature. I do think it is very likely he will bring this situation up.
I am also applying, and I have pondered for years on doing an MBA. Frankly, his approach is truly annoying, and I seriously question his judgment and hence suitability for a top MBA based on his approach. I think he otherwise has a very good chance of getting in if he is patient and reflects more about the MBA app process and the MBA as a whole.
You're preaching to the converted.
Without commenting specifically on your friend, I can tell you that [url=http://accepted.typepad.com/admissions_almanac/2005/04/goals_in_mba_ad.htmlgoals [/url]are as much a requirement for MBA admissions as a good GMAT. In fact the [url=http://www.collegejournal.com/mbacenter/mbatrack/20060110-alsop.html]CollegeJournal had an article[/url] yesterday about intensive internship recruiting which is actually putting pressure on MBA students who don't know what they want. Those with
clear goals are at a distinct advantage when it comes to taking advantage of the hot job market.
In terms of how to advise your friend, you may want to refer him to the articles that I have linked to. He may also benefit from:
[url=http://axechick.blogspot.com/2005/06/i-told-you-so.html"I told you so."[/url]
How Many Times Can I Tell the Same Story
Researching Your Goals and Fit for the School
If your friend really is as scattered about his applications as you believe, then he would be better off getting his act together and applying next fall. You need to know where you are going as well as where you are coming from.
Good luck!
Good luck!
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Linda Abraham
Accepted.com
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