Re: Good resource for explaining what HBS looks for
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18 Sep 2015, 08:38
This is MY understanding of it, to go in line with where i'm currently at (i.e. what i've done still in university and what I plan to do), have I got it wrong? I've highlighted key words in bold.
1) Habit of Leadership
Leadership may be expressed in many forms, from college extracurricular activities to academic or business achievements, from personal accomplishments to community commitments. We appreciate leadership on any scale, from organizing a classroom to directing a combat squad, from running an independent business to spearheading initiatives at work. In essence, we are looking for evidence of your potential.
Examples: Founding a society whilst at college, Elected course representative, Team project at work/university where you led the team, Volunteering as a tutor for underpriveliged/orphaned children, Entrepreneurship activities (Founding a unique startup)
Not quite sure what they men by spearheading initiaives at work, hopefully someone can clarify. Hopefully someone can also point out any other instances I may have missed out which displays leadership. Also the word HABIT, what length of service or instances would display this?
2) Analytical Aptitude and Appetite
Harvard Business School is a demanding, fast-paced, and highly-verbal environment. We look for individuals who enjoy lively discussion and debate. Our case and field-based methods of learning depend upon the active participation of prepared students who can assess, analyze, and act upon complex information within often-ambiguous contexts. The MBA Admissions Board will review your prior academic performance, the results of the GMAT or GRE, and, if applicable, TOEFL iBT and/or IELTS, and the nature of your work experience. There is no particular previous course of study required to apply; you must, however, demonstrate the ability to master analytical and quantitative concepts.
Examples: Active participation in a debating society, Strong verbal GMAT score, Lots of public speaking and presentations preferably in front of large crowds, Consulting roles which involve presentations to clients, Philosophy
What can one do to display this? Academically if you're not doing a Liberal arts degree for instance but something more vocational, would a Philosophy MOOC help show analytical and critical ability? Is an Accounting and Finance degree for instance enough to meet this criteria?
3) Engaged Community Citizenship
So much of our MBA experience - including the case method, section life, and student-organized events - requires the active collaboration of the entire HBS community. That's why we look for students who exhibit the highest ethical standards and respect for others, and can make positive contributions to the MBA Program. The right candidates must be eager to share their experiences, support their colleagues, and teach as well as learn from their peers.
We want applicants who have these traits, as well as bring a variety of skills, accomplishments and aspirations. In each class, we create a dynamic environment that mirrors the breadth and depth of our world economy. Our promise to our faculty and to every student here is to create a class of 900 students who come from as many different backgrounds and perspectives as possible
Examples: ???
Completely lost on this one, how does one demonstrate this, any ideas?