Ross (Michigan) 2013 - Calling All Waitlisted Applicants

Hi eyjose,

I can't be sure that Ross is exactly the same as Booth, but I had someone who is currently on the Booth WL pm me earlier asking for advice. Here is a slightly edited (just regarding the Booth-specific references) version of my response:

The best way I can sum up my strategy is with the phrase, "the diplomatic squeaky wheel gets the grease". I applied to Booth two years ago and was waitlisted from R1 until the end of August, when I was finally rejected. I spent much of the two years between then and my most recent application attempt improving my profile in every way possible (went from a 730 to 760 gmat, took additional classes and earned As, progressed at work, took on more responsibility in my extracurricular activities, cultivated Booth relationships, etc).

When I applied most recently in R1, I was disappointed to learn I had been waitlisted again. However, I was lucky enough to be admitted (with $$$) to another top program (Ross), but I had my heart set on Booth. Knowing that this would be my last time applying to MBA programs, I took every measure I could to get in. I reached out to alumni and others connected to Booth, about 20 people in total, taking in-person meetings, phone calls, etc, and was able to secure multiple (five) letters of support, including three from very prominent alumni, including a partner at the firm I work for. I visited campus again (I visited two years ago for my original application) and met with a member of the admissions committee to personally present my story, emphasizing my passion for the program and my very specific reasons for wanting to attend. I sent in two long update letters, submitted a recent professional performance review, and provided 3-4 additional shorter updates that shed light on certain aspects of my profile I wanted to highlight. I also timed everything so that I was essentially in constant contact with the admissions committee, with new material sent every 1-2 weeks. I did my best to ensure that I was on their minds without being an annoyance.

Luckily, everything finally paid off. My experience shows that programs looks favorably upon people who really go the extra mile to show how badly they want to be there, and have a deep and nuanced knowledge of the program beyond the usual headlines (i.e. you have very specific reasons for wanting to go, and well thought-out plans for maximizing your time there). It will also help if you can secure alumni or other strong community support (i.e. professors, prominent professionals connected to the program, or even current students). Ultimately programs want to admit students who will definitely attend, and who want to be at the program as their top choice. If you are able to convey that sentiment effectively and keep yourself on the minds of the adcom, you will have a solid shot.

I hope this helps.

Best of luck,
kcw984