We’ve offered advice on the Wharton team-based discussion a few times (like here and here), but it seems like applicants are still struggling to wrap their heads around this interview experience.
Here I will reinforce some key points, as well as let you know about our mock Wharton interview for both the individual and team based interview (see tip #4).
1. Don’t underestimate your one-minute intro!
Prepare a statement for each of Wharton’s three prompts so that when the timer starts, you’re prepared to deliver a 60-second into confidently and smoothly. Most round 1 & 2 participants reported that the facilitators WILL stop you when you hit the 60-second mark of your pitch, so practice with a stopwatch!
2. Bring a few notes, but don’t bring a 300-page treatise!
You don’t want to be shuffling through notes (even paperless notes on a tablet) while you should be paying attention to the comments of your co-interviewees. The same thing goes for furiously scribbling notes during the interview – keep this to a minimum! Remember, this is a group discussion, not a chance for you to read your monologue from a stack of papers!
3. Put the team’s success first and you will come out a winner.
Those who put the success of their team above that of their own proposal will score in the mock TBD. It’s a team exercise; not an airtime contest. Be prepared to encourage teammates, be flexible, and take respectful initiative when you have something to contribute.
4. Practice makes perfect – by yourself and as a group!
The best way to prepare for the Wharton team-based discussion is by sampling the experience for yourself. Accepted ran several mock interviews (with excellent participant feedback), and is gearing up for its next round soon. Make sure you’re a part of this essential interview prep! See details and register here: mock interviews for Wharton's group and individual discussions.
We asked participants in previous mock Wharton TBDs what they found most valuable about the exercise. Here is a sampling of their responses:
• “The opportunity to practice discussing the interview topic with other skilled and motivated candidates. I believe after participating in one of these groups, the candidates are much more prepared for the real interview.”
• “The most valuable aspect was to be able to know how the team discussion would go and also experience a really close simulation to it. So I felt much better prepared.”
• “Finding out how the interview is run and seeing it in action. I believe I will be more confident going to the interview.”
When asked if they felt better prepared because they participated in the mock Wharton TBD, 100% said “yes.”
This article originally appeared on the Accepted Admissions Consulting Blog, the official blog of Accepted.com.
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