Class Visit

Question

It's my first interview and I might be overthinking this (probably, but here goes anyway): I'm traveling to a school for an interview and have scheduled a class visit while I'm there. My question: Would it be overly cheesy for me to introduce myself to the professor before class, to say thank you for letting my observe and generally introduce myself? Would it be rude if I didn't introduce myself since the professor probably knows his students and i'll stick out like a sore thumb (in my business formal attire)?
 
What have you generally done when observing a class?

Nsentra · Answer

ok from my experience you should try to interact as little as possible during the class. in Tuck the professor asked the visitors to stand up and introduce ourselves to the class after which the students applauded. but on the visitor's form there said specifically not to ask questions or raise hand during the class. during my Yale visit the students in the class didn't know an answer to a really simple finance question, so professor asked us the visitors if we knew and someone answered correctly, causing the professor to playfully shame his students. 

so the bottom line in my opinion atleast is unless you're asked for input, don't provide any.

lepium · Answer

I agree with NS's comments. However, I'd say introducing yourself to the professor (very briefly) is good manners. I'd arrive a little bit early and introduce myself just outside class (if at all possible). Or just ask the Admissions office what's the standard procedure.

Hope it helps. L.

cha630 · Answer

it definitely helps - thanks so much to both of you! I was taking the slightest issue and stressing over it, when I really need to stress over stuff like "why an mba?", "what are your career goals?" and what shoes i'm going to wear :wink:

thanks again

aaudetat · Answer

Also, you will likely have a student host who will escort you to class, and then introduce you to the professor. All three class visits I've been on went that way.

eazyb81 · Answer

If the professors asks you to introduce yourself to the class, should you simply stand up and say your name or go further and give an impromptu elevator speech?

aaudetat · Answer

Ugh, I would save the theatrics. Think how many class visits they have this time of year.

Perhaps that lovely old saying should be our guide: children are to be seen and not heard. And speak when spoken to.

They'll tell you what they want.

MoonShine · Answer

Most likely you will be introduced to the prof by your guide. If for some reason you don't have a guide, then you should probably just introduce yourself beforehand. When the class begins, the professor will most likely introduce you to the class and also you may need to say something about yourself. I'd stick with the basics: where your from, what school you went to undergrad, where you work.

philkriger · Answer

I visited Darden a few months back. The section I sat in with has a ritual where the visitor has to pick a question out of a box (in the spirit of the Darden cold call). My question was "would you rather have a night of passion or a night of high sales?" I answered "a night of high sales followed by a late night of passion." I pretty much nailed the question and the whole section laughed :lol:

GMATT73 · Answer

I sat in on SEVEN classes at my target school and introduced myself as a "prospective class of 2009 student" to each professor. I actually think it is a good idea to at least break the ice. Also, sit in the back (upper) row, where you can interract with other students during the breaks. Seriously, this is an invaluable way to really get a feel as to what the lecture based aspect is really like.

Another good place to network is at the MBA lounge. Just don't force yourself upon busy groups; use common etiquitte and you will be amazed at how much students will open up to you.

lhotseface · Answer

Seven classes, huh ! Most schools would dole out a degree at that point.

GMATT73 · Answer

No exaggeration. I really wanted to make sure that XYZ school was the best fit.

kidderek · Answer

Or at least a tuition bill!!!!!

naturallight · Answer

GMATT73 -- are you going to UW in the fall?

Class Visit

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