Laid off after R2 interview but before admission decisions

Question

Hi everyone,

I was laid off after most of my R2 interviews this year due to company’s restructuring and outsourcing with over 90 other people. I’m wondering would that impact my application outcome, and 
- should I update the schools before or after the release of decisions, or not mention until they ask?
- if I’m to update the schools, what’s the best way to address it?

I’m considering now because I figured that when the schools do background checks, they will eventually see that I was laid off this month. But I’m just now sure what’s the best way and timing to do it. I’d appreciate your advices.

Thanks!

Posted from my mobile device

Admissionado · Answer

Flyingfish123 :

I am sorry to hear about this. Hopefully you get into a great program so you won't have to worry about finding a new job! Responding to your two questions:

Q: Should I update the schools before or after the release of decisions, or not mention until they ask?

A: You should just hold your cards. Do not mention anything. You are under no obligation to update the school about your profile post-submission, much less post-interview.

Q: if I’m to update the schools, what’s the best way to address it?

A: You can send an email or call the admissions committee and indicate that you were laid off as part of a massive restructuring on X date, just as you did in your posting. So long as that is true, your (hopeful) acceptance will not be rescinded because you were accurate on your application. I assume you have proof of your dismissal in the form of a termination letter, so if there is an issue you can always submit that to show you were employed up until X date.

Again, I am sorry you have to go through this but fortunately I am confident this will have zero impact on the MBA admissions process for you.

Good luck and hoping for the best,
Admissionado

Yogananda · Answer

Hi Mate,

I am sorry to hear about this.
See if below suggestion makes sense.
When the background check happens(or if the B-School asks), just tell them that you decided to resign to look for a better work opportunity(company) or freelance work.

There is a difference between termination and Covid-lay off, in former case it would be immediate on the grounds of compliance reasons, if your case is latter one, you would be having a last working day with notice period to serve(or have served).

In a nutshell, you don't need to tell them that you were laid-off.
Best wishes.

bb · Answer

I would definitely NOT contact the school. There is no reason to

You are not sure how that information may be used. It could help I guess but it could also be used against you. Schools are supposed to make the decision based on the information they received at the time of the application, not afterwards. They are actually not even supposed to consider any new information since that would be unfair to other candidates. The only exception is the WL folks. Then the new information becomes important!

Laid off after R2 interview but before admission decisions

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