Congrats to those who have been 'Invited to Interview' or have already been interviewed by Owen.
A few tips (from my personal experience while applying in Round 1) for
A. those who are yet to be interviewed; and
B. those who shall be submitting their applications in the 3rd Round.
- Owen values personal interaction a LOT, which includes queries about the school, its culture, advantages, unique aspects, how the school can help you achieve your goals. (Just make sure that your queries are not too obvious, you know, something you can find on the school website). The Adcom is very friendly, a special shout out to Kim Killingsworth here.
So basically, your application is just as important as your personal interaction and engagement with NOT ONLY the ADCOM, but also the student ambassadors there. Something that makes you seem more than just a piece of formal application.
- They also value cultural fit a lottt. If you will research a bit, you will find that Vanderbilt (not just the B school, but the uni as a whole) has a unique culture- very very social and collaborative, Work hard Play hard attitude, has a Southern vibe (in a good way), etc., a focus on making sure that a student's time at Vandy is one of the best experience of their life.
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You MUST exude positivity and enthusiasm, both about yourself, and about the school, university and Nashville. It's cool if you can fake it, but the best way would be to be genuinely excited about the school (which can only happen if you do thorough research on the school and interact with the Adcom and current students).
- Owen has seen a drop in the avg. GMAT score in the last few years, so a strong GMAT score will help you a LOT.
- Owen has also seen a decrease in the number of international applicants and students (all schools have, as a result of the govt. policies of previous years), so being an international applicant can be an advantage-- HOWEVER, you still have to be an otherwise strong/decent applicant.
- Owen has a strong financial aid program (one of the strongest among mid-ranking schools), and (from my experience) it's not just for Underrepresented minorities/Gender-based (although these factors can be advantageous).
- Needless to say, interview is CRUCIAL.
- Last but not least, No one SINGLE factor will get you in (and in the alternative, put you at a disadvantage). Focus on having a balanced and well-rounded application.
https://www.clearadmit.com/2016/12/admi ... e-st-john/Hope it is helpful.
Do let me know if I can be of any further help.
I will also try to be more active on this forum from now on.