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Hi Everyone!

I'm planning to apply for the September 2024 intake. Here's an overview about me -

I have a total of 3 years of work-ex. I've been working at a bootstrapped startup (in the Content Industry) as a Business Development Manager (Sales). I recently gave my gmat and ended up with a 690 (Q46 and V38).

Here are some questions -

1. How open are B-schools (especially HEC Paris) with folks from startup backgrounds?
2. Can you shed some light on the Marketing Specialisation of the MBA programme?
3. Do you have any application tips? What are some areas one must focus on?
4. I noticed HEC Paris's website has a "Connect with us" option where one can share details such as GMAT Score and resume and the admission panel gets in touch and gives an overview about the profile. Incase y'all did this, how was the experience - do they provide tips, etc?
5. Any tips on how to build a resume for B-schools? I've heard they should ideally only be one page. Any more tips? Especially on highlighting the key areas?
6. Any tips on connecting with alumni from HEC Paris? Are they approached mainly via linkedin?
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Rii24
Hi Everyone! I’m planning to apply for the September 2024 intake. Here’s an overview about me - I have a total of 3 years of work-ex. I’ve been working at a bootstrapped startup (in the Content Industry) as a Business Development Manager (Sales). I recently gave my gmat and ended up with a 690 (Q46 and V38). Here are some questions - 1. How open are B-schools (especially HEC Paris) with folks from startup backgrounds? 2. Can you shed some light on the Marketing Specialisation of the MBA programme? 3. Do you have any application tips? What are some areas one must focus on? 4. I noticed HEC Paris’s website has a "Connect with us" option where one can share details such as GMAT Score and resume and the admission panel gets in touch and gives an overview about the profile. Incase y’all did this, how was the experience - do they provide tips, etc? 5. Any tips on how to build a resume for B-schools? I’ve heard they should ideally only be one page. Any more tips? Especially on highlighting the key areas? 6. Any tips on connecting with alumni from HEC Paris? Are they approached mainly via linkedin?
I may not be able to answer all of them, but here’s my experience
For starters, if you’re from Asia- if you could increase your GMAT score by a few points, your chances would be better. 690 is the avg GMAT score.
1. B-schools are very open to folks from startup backgrounds. At HEC diversity is something they really care about, so being from a not-so represented background is an advantage. It all depends on how well you are able to articulate your stories.
2. Reach out to people on LinkedIn
3. You’ll have to be more specific. Overall have an above average GMAT, the essays are really important, so make sure you use the optional essay as well to address your weaknesses. Do not portray yourself as someone else on the application.
4. I hadn’t used this feature but so many people do. From what I have heard, they do provide meaningful advice, but at the end it all depends on how you incorporate it.
5. For resume, you’ll find so many guides online. basics are - use action verbs, quantify your impact
6. gmatclub and linkedin are the best places.

Feel free to DM me for more queries
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Rii24
Hi Everyone! I’m planning to apply for the September 2024 intake. Here’s an overview about me - I have a total of 3 years of work-ex. I’ve been working at a bootstrapped startup (in the Content Industry) as a Business Development Manager (Sales). I recently gave my gmat and ended up with a 690 (Q46 and V38). Here are some questions - 1. How open are B-schools (especially HEC Paris) with folks from startup backgrounds? 2. Can you shed some light on the Marketing Specialisation of the MBA programme? 3. Do you have any application tips? What are some areas one must focus on? 4. I noticed HEC Paris’s website has a "Connect with us" option where one can share details such as GMAT Score and resume and the admission panel gets in touch and gives an overview about the profile. Incase y’all did this, how was the experience - do they provide tips, etc? 5. Any tips on how to build a resume for B-schools? I’ve heard they should ideally only be one page. Any more tips? Especially on highlighting the key areas? 6. Any tips on connecting with alumni from HEC Paris? Are they approached mainly via linkedin?
Quickly chiming in here on the Connect with us option that HEC provides - The first round of feedback by mail is not super specific, but it then opens up the option to connect with the marketing and recruitment manager for your area. In my case, that was Allisson, and she was *super* helpful throughout the process, addressing questions about the program and adding some tips here and there wherever possible. Would *highly* recommend making use of this option
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Hello. I am a civil engineer with the Lebanese Army. Is this experience considered international
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fadyc
Hello. I am a civil engineer with the Lebanese Army. Is this experience considered international
What is your nationality ? If you are from Lebanon working in the country’s army then it may not be considered an international experience

Having international clients, having worked abroad, having lived abroad as an exchange student etc. are some of the factors which HEC may consider as an international experience
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Yes I am Lebanese but I worked in many projects in which I had to cooperate with officers from different nationalities. The last project for example was the construction of ammunition stores in corporation with Mines Advisory Group(MAG)
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Yes I am Lebanese but I worked in many projects in which I had to cooperate with officers from different nationalities. The last project for example was the construction of ammunition stores in corporation with Mines Advisory Group(MAG)
Voila.. You can use that to show your international exposure
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Voila.. You can use that to show your international exposure
Since we are discussing this, I have been working with distributers and customers of different nationalities for my job but never went abroad. Does that count as international experience?
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Jarvis07
Since we are discussing this, I have been working with distributers and customers of different nationalities for my job but never went abroad. Does that count as international experience?
Yes, it does
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Jarvis07
Since we are discussing this, I have been working with distributers and customers of different nationalities for my job but never went abroad. Does that count as international experience?
I am also having a similar situation. Worked with suppliers from different nationalities but never went abroad.
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Rii24
Hi Everyone!

I'm planning to apply for the September 2024 intake. Here's an overview about me -

I have a total of 3 years of work-ex. I've been working at a bootstrapped startup (in the Content Industry) as a Business Development Manager (Sales). I recently gave my gmat and ended up with a 690 (Q46 and V38).

Here are some questions -

1. How open are B-schools (especially HEC Paris) with folks from startup backgrounds?
2. Can you shed some light on the Marketing Specialisation of the MBA programme?
3. Do you have any application tips? What are some areas one must focus on?
4. I noticed HEC Paris's website has a "Connect with us" option where one can share details such as GMAT Score and resume and the admission panel gets in touch and gives an overview about the profile. Incase y'all did this, how was the experience - do they provide tips, etc?
5. Any tips on how to build a resume for B-schools? I've heard they should ideally only be one page. Any more tips? Especially on highlighting the key areas?
6. Any tips on connecting with alumni from HEC Paris? Are they approached mainly via linkedin?

Hi Rii24 - HEC Paris MBA alum (2019) here.

My responses below:

1. HEC does value work experiences in start-ups. Make sure to highlight the impact you had in the role(s), quantifying how it improved the business, key lessons you learned and how these would help you bring value to both the HEC cohort and your career post-MBA.

2. The marketing specialization (now called "Strategic Marketing") would complement the core courses. It consists of theoretical and experience-based courses that teach you how to develop innovative marketing strategies and solve real-world marketing problems. Generally, candidates in this specialization transition to roles such as brand and product managers, business developers, marketing managers, communications directors, etc. If France is your geography of interest, speaking fluent French helps, though I have seen some people land Marketing roles without fluent French. The UK and Netherlands are some other geographies that recruit for marketing roles from HEC. For more details, happy to put you in touch with an alumnus from this specialization at HEC.

3. Some points are covered in my response to 1 above. Also make sure to have clear and precise answers to why MBA and why HEC. If you have any specific questions, happy to answer.

4. The "Connect with Us" form is an informal step that has no influence on your eventual application, but it allows HEC to give you initial feedback and to continue to stay in touch with you. Some HEC Recruitment Managers also offer a virtual chat to candidates at this step. The feedback provided at this stage can help you improve your profile and strengthen your application, so using this option is highly recommended.

5. A one-pager resume is recommended, highlighting for each role some key bullet points with your achievements in that role: context (challenge/ situation), action (what you did) and the result (tangible impact). Happy to share a sample CV template.

6. Feel free to reach out to me via email or LinkedIn :)

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris alum, Admissions interviewer
admitstreet.com
E: consultingteam@admitstreet.com | M: +(91)-974-126-3950
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Hi, I currently have a 690 and want to apply to hec for the 24 intake. I have 4 years of work ex in data science with a big brand and have decent acads throughout, along with volunteering experience. I am a female applicant who is a masters in economics but despite all this I keep hearing that 690 for anyone from the indian applicant pool is low. Can any admitted folks/consultants comment on this?Thanks
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sv2023
Hi, I currently have a 690 and want to apply to hec for the 24 intake. I have 4 years of work ex in data science with a big brand and have decent acads throughout, along with volunteering experience. I am a female applicant who is a masters in economics but despite all this I keep hearing that 690 for anyone from the indian applicant pool is low. Can any admitted folks/consultants comment on this?Thanks
Hi sv2023

The official GMAT average for the HEC MBA (2019 batch) is 690, but you could be right in assuming that it is higher for Indian applicants. What is your Q/ V split? If possible, please retake the GMAT as a better score will definitely help strengthen your application.

However, this does not necessarily mean that a 690 in itself will significantly impact your chances, as it's not well below the average. HEC considers multiple factors when evaluating applicants, including work experience, academic achievements, post MBA goals, "fit" factor, extracurriculars, leadership potential, and diversity. Having 4 years of work experience in data science with a reputable brand, a background in economics, and volunteering experience are all valuable points.

While it's true that Indian applicant pools are highly competitive, it's important to remember that each candidate is evaluated holistically. A strong application includes good scores, a well-crafted resume highlighting your achievements/ impact, compelling essays, strong letters of recommendation, and a clear articulation of your career goals and why/ how HEC aligns with them. While a higher GMAT score can certainly enhance your application, it's not the sole determinant of admission. Focus on presenting a well-rounded application that showcases your strengths and potential for success in the MBA program.

Feel free to schedule a Free and candid chat through the link below.

All the best!

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer
W: https://admitstreet.com | E: consultingteam@admitstreet.com | M: +(91)-974-126-3950
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Hi admitStreet thankyou for the reply. Regarding your question, my split is q48,v36(ir6, awa6). Sure, I will schedule a call to have a detailed conversation. Thanks
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Hi sv2023,

To begin with, it's important to note that admission decisions are complex and depend on various factors. While a GMAT score of 690 may be considered okayish for top-tier business schools like HEC, it needs to be backed by additional accomplishments to display a strong academic record. Your academic background in economics, as well as your volunteering experience, can also add value to your profile. It's important to highlight these strengths in your application and demonstrate how they align with your future goals and HEC's program.

Business schools evaluate applicants based on a holistic review process, taking into account various aspects such as work experience, academic performance, essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. A strong professional background in data science, along with four years of work experience at a reputable company, is definitely a positive factor that can contribute to your application.

While a higher GMAT score can improve your chances, it's not the sole determining factor. AdComs consider the overall fit of an applicant and their potential to contribute to the program. You should focus on showcasing your unique experiences, skills, and accomplishments throughout your application, including your essays and interviews.

Remember that admission decisions are highly subjective, and many applicants with scores below the average still get admitted to top-tier schools based on their overall profile and fit with the program. So, focus on presenting a compelling application that highlights your strengths and achievements.

We offer a limited number of complimentary profile evaluations each week . We match you with the students and alums of top B-Schools according to your background and target schools. In this call, the experts will try to dig out your USP for top B-schools and provide you with honest feedback on your profile and chances to your target schools.
Book a free profile evaluation call now!

Good luck with your application process!

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sv2023
Hi, I currently have a 690 and want to apply to hec for the 24 intake. I have 4 years of work ex in data science with a big brand and have decent acads throughout, along with volunteering experience. I am a female applicant who is a masters in economics but despite all this I keep hearing that 690 for anyone from the indian applicant pool is low. Can any admitted folks/consultants comment on this?Thanks
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Hi everyone, I’m interested to know how big a role years of work experience play in the application process, I will have 2 and half years of WE by the time of application in a revenue operations role. I have a GMAT score of 730. I am due for a promotion in March, so should i apply this year or wait and apply next year; when I have the promo and an extra year of WE?
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Shrihari_c
Hi everyone, I’m interested to know how big a role years of work experience play in the application process, I will have 2 and half years of WE by the time of application in a revenue operations role. I have a GMAT score of 730. I am due for a promotion in March, so should i apply this year or wait and apply next year; when I have the promo and an extra year of WE?

Shrihari_c

HEC MBA candidates typically have between 2 and 10 years of working experience (the average for the Class of 2019 is 6 years). The strongly recommended requirement is atleast 2 years of working experience, which you would have by the time of application.

To better answer your question, I'd like to understand your work experience (company name, role, your key achievements etc.) and your candid responses to: why do you want to do an MBA, and why now? Can that reason wait for a year more, or would it affect any key factors - professionally or personally? I can then advise accordingly.

Feel free to reach out if you would like to schedule a chat.

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer
W: https://admitstreet.com | E: consultingteam@admitstreet.com | M: +(91)-974-126-3950
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