cmns18 wrote:
Paul,
After reading some of your replies about the importance of demonstrating leadership in and out of work, I had some questions about leadership opportunities.
A significant portion of my community leadership has come as I have worked to start up a 20/30s group at my church. I've been working to get this group going for about a year and I've learned alot along the way. Much which I feel would be viewed favorably such as learning how to manage others, taking initiative, etc However, I'm not sure how an Admissions committee would respond to my main community leadership being at church. What do you think?
One other question, is it ok to talk about how one of the reasons I want to get my MBA is so that I can have increased access to leadership opportunities? I care less about my starting salary (being that I work at a non-profit) then I do about having an opportunity to work for and lead a business or organization that can not only provide services to others but also impact a community in a positive way.
I don't want to get down on my current job but one of the reasons I'm looking to go back to school is because I don't feel I can advance or take sufficient leadership at my current position. Is it bad to mention this?
Thanks in advance
cmns18,
Leadership in your church is an excellent commnnity experience to mention. It may actually help you in that it's more unusual vis-a-vis the usual Habitat for Humanity, Make-a-Wish, United Way roles that many applicants describe. Obviously, you want to avoid discussing doctrinal or controversial issues (abortion etc.) and focus on doing good in society.
Saying you need the MBA to gain leadership roles is a good idea, and it's fine to say that your current career path precludes this. The more specific you can be about the leadership roles an MBA allows you to enter the better. After all, needing an MBA to get into leadership is not, in itself, a terribly original or uncommon reason for B-school--adcoms will want a bit more.
Good luck,