I am debating whether to apply via consortium or directly and was wondering if anyone had answers for the following:
(1) Some schools only have one or two essays via Constortium vs. 4 or 5 via the direct application. Will this hurt my chances, as I will not be able to showcase myself? Why do schools do this? Are you really only competing with other Consortium applicants because of this?
(2) How exactly do interviews work? For Tuck's direct application, I think you need to interview before applying there (student-initiated interview). Do you not even interview with all these schools? Therefore again, are you only competing with other Consortium applicants?
(3) Are the recommendations simply letters or do they have specific questions like other direct applications?
(4) In regards to the first essay: "Please describe your short and long term goals post-MBA. How has your professional experience shaped these goals and influenced your decision to pursue an MBA degree?" how general or specific should this be? I usually cater each essay towards each school slightly.
(5) In regards to the second, optional essay, are these topics appropriate: brief history and background of my current firm (adcom will likely not have heard of it and there is a rich history), why I clicked the "hispanic box" (I am a quarter hispanic), why I need an MBA even with a masters in accounting degree already?
(6) From what I've been reading, fellowships don't come out until late in the process (March?). However, do other forms of financial support (merit-based scholarships specifically) come out with the admissions decision? Would you have to accept admissions before potentially knowing the financial package? Are you on the same playing field as other applicants for non-fellowship financial aid (due to the different process, fault of other essays, timing, etc.)?