It's fine if you can't make it to Women's Weekend. It certainly won't reflect poorly on your interest in the school. The fact you've received an invitation to interview at all obviously means Admissions already sees a good, possible fit.
That said however, Women's Weekend is a rather valuable opportunity and offers quite a bit more than just the traditional come in/go out sort of interview. You get to interact with a lot more students and possibly alumnae, go to Beer Blast and get a good sense of the social vibe at school, as well as a chance to start building some b-school relationships (which are useful regardless of whether you end up at Stern). Moreover, if this is the sort of thing you think about, then Stern really highlights the resources and support network it specifically makes available to women in the MBA program. It's also an excellent way to understand how the MBA experience may or may not be unique at a school like Stern.
Definitely consider attending it!
westcoasttransplant
bonkselle23
Does anyone who's been admitted to interview during the Women's Day(s) have any thoughts on the prospect? In their email it seems like they prefer us to take that option, but at the same time they're saying they won't hold it against us if we don't.
Thoughts?
I opted for an earlier interview date instead of the Diversity Weekend, and a member of AdCom just e-mailed me asking if I'd like to attend the Women's Weekend instead of the regular interview I just scheduled. I think this is a glaring indicator that they really would rather you attend one of these events if possible, especially if you live in NYC. While I don't think it can hurt you to opt-out, I get the feeling it won't help your perceived interest in the school...