closeEvents & Promotions
| Last visit was: 26 Apr 2024, 16:23 |
It is currently 26 Apr 2024, 16:23 |
Customized
for You
Track
Your Progress
Practice
Pays
02:00 PM EDT
-03:00 PM EDT
03:00 PM PDT
-04:00 PM PDT
07:00 PM PDT
-08:00 PM PDT
08:00 AM EDT
-09:00 AM EDT
10:00 AM PDT
-12:00 PM PDT
10:00 AM EDT
-10:30 AM EDT
21 Jul 2020, 12:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: London Business School Essays, Tips for 2020-2021 |
 London Business School values independence and original thought. Other values on display through these London Business School essays are an international approach to business and culture. This year’s streamlined LBS application has only two essay questions. Showcasing all of your career accomplishments, extracurriculars, and personal attributes will be a challenge. Therefore, you will likely need to maximize other parts of the application, like your resume and recommendations. Talk to your recommenders about the experiences in your background you might want to highlight through their letters. Also, use your resume to describe critical moments at work. Start your research brainstorm by learning all you can about the culture at London Business School. This will help you answer these London Business School essays. Knowing the culture can help you prepare the rest of your application for admission. One of the best ways to get to know LBS is to visit the campus and interact with a London Business School Student Ambassador. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has complicated in-person visits at the moment. In the meantime, take advantage of the school’s twice-weekly virtual information sessions. Once you have a good sense of the school and how you will take advantage of the opportunity to attend LBS, you will be better prepared to approach the essay questions. Do the London Business School essays challenge you? Contact us to learn how Stacy Blackman Consulting can help. To learn more about LBS, visit the program website.  Required Essay What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these? (500 words) Self-awareness about your strengths and interests will help you refine what you truly want in your career for this London Business School essay. It could be helpful to talk to colleagues and alumni who have MBAs in your field to identify various career paths. Make sure that your career goals are both realistic and aspirational. Think about the short term roles post-MBA that may lead to your most ambitious longer-term goals. Your past experiences have likely informed your post-MBA plans. Touching on those most relevant will help you set the background for your current pursuit of an MBA. Don’t make this essay a mere rehash of your resume. Think about explaining the rationale for your decisions throughout the essay. Why did you pursue your past experience, and what has been the impetus behind subsequent career choices? At this point, why are you choosing LBS? As you speak with current LBS students and attend virtual events, learn as much as you can about the programs, professors, and classes that may help you achieve your goals. Plus, consider what you will learn at LBS and in your time in London. What new skills and courses will lead to the achievement of your career goals? Also, the network you create during your MBA will open doors for you, and preparing for this essay can help you to make the most of the experience. Optional Essay Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School? (500 words) In describing the LBS vision, continued business impact, the school represents the culture this way: “We challenge how things are done and we teach our students to constantly question and innovate. We believe in providing our students with the most diverse, world-class, and rewarding business education in the world.” This open-ended question is an excellent opportunity to touch on a personal story and add color to your story to demonstrate how you will be part of this culture. This could be the ideal place to describe a unique background, experience, or attribute that did not fit elsewhere in the application. Diversity can mean many things. For example, it can be where you are from, the culture you identify with, or your approach to life. If diversity of experience or attitude doesn’t resonate for you, have you been challenged and innovated? When have you taken a new view or challenged conventional wisdom? A global perspective is invaluable, as well. Think about stories that could illustrate how you have demonstrated any of these qualities that are valued by LBS. The post Tuesday Tips: London Business School Essays, Tips for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
21 Jul 2020, 12:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Oxford MBA Application Essay Tips for 2020-2021 |
 Are you currently working on your Oxford MBA application? The highly ranked one-year Saïd at Oxford MBA program exposes students to an international, diverse network at a world-class institution. For that reason, Oxford seeks engaged students and mature leaders with extensive work experience. A great way to learn about the Oxford MBA during this COVID-19 pandemic is by attending virtual information sessions or reading student blogs. You’ll notice that there is a strong culture of improving the world. In fact, this emphasis on making the world a better place comes through clearly in this set of Oxford MBA application essays. Conveying your deeper purpose is a core motivator for a successful applicant. At a time of crisis, we make decisions that reflect our values. While survival and recovery are paramount, we have to be mindful of the type of world we create as we emerge from this challenge. Peter Tufano, Dean of Saïd Business School Above all, Oxford states, “the admissions committee will be looking for evidence of the following: good communication skills, leadership potential, analytical skills, fit with the Oxford MBA community.” To learn more about the Oxford MBA application, visit the Oxford Saïd website. For assistance with your application essays, contact Stacy Blackman Consulting for a complimentary evaluation. Supporting Statement: Tell us something that is not covered in your application which you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you. (Maximum 250 words) This Oxford MBA application essay is open-ended. Therefore, it allows you to cover almost any topic that you think needs more clarification. Perhaps you want to describe something about your personal background. On the other hand, you might want to describe a leadership role in a volunteer role. In addition, it’s possible to use this essay to further emphasize your career goals. Consider sharing information about your international experience if applicable. Oxford is looking for maturity, leadership, and diversity in applicants. Accordingly, this essay is an opportunity to show these qualities. Once you have chosen a topic for this Oxford MBA application essay, you will want to explain yourself clearly. With only 250 words, you should make sure to use precise language and examples. Specific examples will help the admissions committee understand you better. For example, you might describe a volunteer accomplishment. To do so, describe who was there, what you accomplished, and how you felt about it.  If you are applying under the Oxford 1+1 MBA scheme, you also need to submit the following essay: Explain why you see this as particularly beneficial for you and how it fits with your career and personal development aims. (Maximum 250 words) The Oxford 1+1 MBA provides a unique experience. You can study business for one year, and spend the other year studying topics from African Studies to Water Science, Policy, and Management. Successful applicants will show why they have a good reason to study both. Consider your career goals, and how a well-rounded course may help you. In addition, focus on long-term goals and consider how deep knowledge in a master’s topic could provide perspective. This Oxford MBA application essay is asking “why 1+1” and you will need a clear answer. Therefore, extensive program research will help you answer the question thoroughly. To conduct your research, consider contacting current or former students, as well as alumni or faculty. Make sure you have well-researched questions to ask of them, and a focus on your interests and goals. Re-applicants will need to submit an additional essay as below: What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (Maximum 250 words) It’s easy to answer questions like this one when you have improved scores. However, even if your improvements are less tangible, this essay allows you to express them. First, consider what you have learned since you last applied. Second, think about any advancements at work. Third, review your outside activities for any leadership experiences. Once you have reviewed the recent developments, describe them briefly in this essay. Finally, make sure to explain why you are a stronger candidate. The post Tuesday Tips: Oxford MBA Application Essay Tips for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
23 Jul 2020, 11:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: B-Schooled Episode #13: Virtual Info Sessions |
 Since in-person campus visits and traveling information sessions aren’t happening for a while due to COVID-19, MBA admissions committees are offering several different types of virtual experiences and online information sessions to help prospective students get to know their programs better. Our newest episode of the B-Schooled podcast answers these burning questions: • Are these online sessions valuable? • How should they be approached? • Should they be treated like an interview? • Can an online interaction with the adcom help or hurt my chances? • What questions should I ask? • How can I use something from the session in my essays? • What are some other ways can I research MBA programs? Listen to B-Schooled episode #13 here, or on any of the podcast apps listed below. B-Schooled is available on most major podcast apps, including: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher TuneIn Please be sure to subscribe to B-Schooled so that you don’t miss a thing. If there’s something you’d like for us to cover in a future episode, please email podcast@stacyblackman.com. We’d love to hear from you! The post B-Schooled Episode #13: Virtual Info Sessions appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
23 Jul 2020, 13:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Emory MBA Deadlines for 2020-2021 |
 Are you interested in the Goizueta Business School at Emory University? Then mark your calendar, because the Emory MBA deadlines for the 2020-2021 application season have been announced! This year, Goizueta has pushed up its first-round deadline and dropped the fourth round. Emory MBA Deadlines Round 1 Application due: September 23, 2020 Decision released: December 10, 2020 Round 2* Application due: January 13, 2021 Decision released: March 25, 2021 Round 3 Application due: March 17, 2021 Decision released: April 29, 2021 * Preferred deadline for One-Year MBA applicants, international applicants, and applicants interested in consideration for top named scholarship. For more information on applying for the Emory MBA, please visit the Emory-Goizueta admissions website. If you need guidance on your Emory MBA application or wish to discuss your business school plans, don’t hesitate to reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Emory MBA Deadlines for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
23 Jul 2020, 13:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Emory MBA Essays for 2020-2021 |
|
Are you interested in Emory University’s Goizueta Business School? Then it’s time to start brainstorming! The Emory MBA essays for the 2020-2021 application season have been confirmed. Instructions for the Emory MBA Essays Complete all required essays, following the word limits indicated for each question. The essays must be answered and submitted for your application to be considered complete. Remember to review each question carefully. We consider essays to be a very important part of the application process, and they are your opportunity to show the Admissions Committee a bit about yourself beyond the application itself. Applicants who apply to more than one MBA program will only complete the essay question requirement related to their first-preference program. Essay One: Post-MBA Career Goals Define your short-term post-MBA career goals. How are your professional strengths, past experience, and personal attributes aligned with these goals? (300 word limit) Essay Two: Leadership in Business The business school is named for Roberto C. Goizueta, former Chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, who led the organization for 16 years, extending its global reach, quadrupling consumption, building brand responsibility, and creating unprecedented shareholder wealth. Roberto Goizueta’s core values guide us in educating Principled Leaders for Global Enterprise. Provide an example of your leadership and explain what you learned about yourself through the experience. (300 word limit) Video Essay Within the application, you will be provided with a question to answer. You will have 30 seconds to gather your thoughts and prepare your answer. You will then have up to 60 seconds to respond to the question. You will be permitted 3 attempts to record your video essay, however each opportunity could present a different question. Additional Information Should you feel there is an important part of your story missing from your application (e.g., unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, academic probation issues), please use this section to provide a brief explanation. We ask that you limit your response to 100 words; responses in bullet point format are preferred. Reapplicant Essays Applicants who have applied to Goizueta Business School in the past must answer the following questions:
For more information on applying, please visit the Emory MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your Emory MBA essays and application, or wish to discuss your business school plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Emory MBA Essays for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
23 Jul 2020, 15:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Kelley School of Business Essays for 2020-2021 |
 Are you targeting IU Kelley School this admissions season? The Kelley School of Business essays for 2020-2021 have been confirmed. Kelley School of Business Essays Essay One: Discuss your immediate post-MBA professional goals. How will your professional experience, when combined with a Kelley MBA degree, allow you to achieve these goals? Should the short-term goals you have identified not materialize, what alternate career paths might you consider? (500 words) Essay Two: Please respond to one of the following short essay prompts. (300 words)
Share a brief fact about yourself that your classmates would find interesting, surprising, or noteworthy. (25 words) Optional Essay: Is there anything else you think we should know as we evaluation your application? If you believe your essays and credentials represent you fairly, you shouldn’t feel obligated to answer this question. (300 words) For more information on applying, please visit the Kelley School admissions site. If you need guidance on your Kelley School of Business essays, or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! Image courtesy of IT Communications Office (CC BY 2.0) The post Kelley School of Business Essays for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
23 Jul 2020, 15:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: McCombs MBA Application Deadlines for 2020-2021 |
 Is the UT McCombs School of Business on your shortlist of target MBA programs this year? The mark your calendar. The Texas McCombs MBA application deadlines for the 2020-2021 admissions season have been announced. McCombs MBA Application Deadlines Round 1 Application due: October 13, 2020 Decision released: December 17, 2020 Round 2 Application due: January 5, 2021 Decision released: March 25, 2021 Round 3 (final deadline for international applicants) Application due: March 30, 2021 Decision released: May 6, 2021 Round 4 (U.S. domestic and Canadian applicants) Application due: May 11, 2021 Decision released: Juune 17, 2021 Applications are due no later than 11:59 p.m. CST on the day of the deadline. Applicants should note that Round 1 is the priority deadline for scholarships and fellowships at the Texas MBA program. For additional information on applying, please visit the Texas MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your Texas McCombs MBA application, or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post McCombs MBA Application Deadlines for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
23 Jul 2020, 16:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Texas McCombs MBA Application Essays for 2020-2021 |
 Are you interested in applying to the UT McCombs School of Business this year? Then get ready to start brainstorming! The Texas McCombs MBA application essays for the 2020-2021 admissions season have been confirmed. UT McCombs MBA Application Essays Essay One We will learn a lot about your professional background through your resume and letter of recommendation. We want to get to know you further. Please introduce yourself using an essay of 250 words, OR a video introduction of one minute. Essay Two Picture yourself at the completion of your MBA journey. Describe how you spent your time as a TexasMcCombs MBA student to achieve your personal and professional goals. (500 words) Optional Statement Please provide any additional information you believe is important or address any areas of concern that you believe will be beneficial to MBA Admissions considering your application. (e.g. gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances) (250 words) *** The Texas MBA program offers great tips regarding what the admissions team is looking for with these questions. Don’t miss this helpful resource. For additional information on applying, please visit the McCombs admissions website. If you need guidance on your Texas McCombs MBA application, or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Texas McCombs MBA Application Essays for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
23 Jul 2020, 16:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: MIT Sloan Cover Letter, Application Requirements for 2020-2021 |
 MIT Sloan School of Management has updated the application requirements for the 2020-2021 season. Once again, candidates must submit a cover letter rather than a traditional MBA essay.MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Application Requirements Here’s how each component is explained on the MIT Sloan admissions site: Cover Letter MIT Sloan seeks students whose personal characteristics demonstrate that they will make the most of the incredible opportunities at MIT, both academic and non-academic. We are on a quest to find those whose presence will enhance the experience of other students. We seek thoughtful leaders with exceptional intellectual abilities and the drive and determination to put their stamp on the world. We welcome people who are independent, authentic, and fearlessly creative — true doers. We want people who can redefine solutions to conventional problems, and strive to preempt unconventional dilemmas with cutting-edge ideas. We demand integrity and respect passion. Taking the above into consideration, please submit a cover letter seeking a place in the MIT Sloan MBA Program. Your letter should conform to a standard business correspondence, include one or more examples that illustrate why you meet the desired criteria above, and be addressed to the Assistant Deans of Admissions, Rod Garcia and Dawna Levenson (300 words or fewer, excluding address and salutation). Resume Please submit a one-page resume (Times New Roman 10 point font preferred) that includes your employment history and academic record in reverse chronological order. Other information appropriate to a business resume is welcomed and encouraged, including extracurricular activities, awards, and achievements. Please REDACT your name, address, and contact information. For formatting purposes, please list the information in the following order:
Please take a minute to introduce yourself to your future classmates via video. Include a bit on your past experience and why MIT Sloan is the best place for you to pursue your MBA. Videos should be a single take (no editing) lasting no more than one minute and consisting of you speaking directly to the camera. We recommend using an application such as QuickTime or iMovie to record yourself. Upload the video file according to the detailed instructions within the application. We support the following file formats: .avi, .flv, .m1v, .m2v, .m4v, .mkv, .mov, .mpeg, .mpg, .mp4, .webm, .wmv Should you experience difficulties uploading your file, please ensure that you’re using a modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Safari) on the fastest wired internet connection available. An intermittent or slow internet connection can cause uploads to timeout. Additional requirements beyond the MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Applicants must submit two additional references besides the individual you choose to write your letter of recommendation. Also, applicants need to upload an organizational chart which outlines the internal structure of your department and company. *** For more information on applying, please visit the MIT Sloan admissions website. If you need guidance on your MIT Sloan cover letter and application, or wish to discuss your business school plans, don’t hesitate to reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post MIT Sloan Cover Letter, Application Requirements for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
27 Jul 2020, 16:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Career Change During a Pandemic |
 “FRESH IDEAS FROM THE BLACKLIGHT” SBC’s Weekly Newsletter for Professionals For many people, the start of a new decade had sparked the desire to explore new career paths in 2020. Then, the coronavirus pandemic struck. Suddenly, we were sheltering in place, working from home, or unemployed overnight. Those conditions might seem incompatible with nurturing your professional development. But, as professors Carter Cast of the Kellogg School and Herminia Ibarra of London Business School point out, you can still find ways to explore career change during the pandemic. Here’s how to do it. Test Your “Provisional Self” Cast recommends you get started by what he calls “testing your provisional self.” This was also an essential step when creating the Odyssey Plan we talked about in an earlier post. The idea is to try out some of the different skills or responsibilities of the new career in a low-risk way before going all-in on a career switch. You can still explore new possibilities while in your current position, says Cast. For example, you might join a company task force or volunteer to lead your company’s annual charitable campaign. “It’s kind of like putting on a new suit and seeing how it fits,” he explains. You can also use this time to fill your skills gap. Or, to hone a talent you didn’t have time to master before. Explore a new career field through webinars. Watch the trends in the industry in which you hope to work. Consider offering to work on a project for a company with which you want to start a relationship.  Professor Ibarra of LBS has studied career change for the past two decades. She says doing something on the side is the most common path to career reinvention. But projects don’t have to be limited to the sphere of your desired new career. You can make surprising discoveries about yourself when you get involved in community volunteer efforts, or crisis initiatives at your organization, she says. “The point is to do new and different work with new and different people,” Ibarra explains. “That process represents an opportunity to learn about yourself, your preferences and dislikes, and the kinds of contexts and people that bring out the best in you.” Take Time to Reflect Considering a career change during the pandemic means taking ample time for self-reflection. “Unexpected events or shocks disrupt our habitual routines, jolt us out of our comfort zones, and lead us to ask big questions about what matters and what is worth doing,” Ibarra notes. Thinking about an uncertain future feels unsettling. But it’s essential to process your emotions about the change. Before you can shift into “Version 2.0” of your career, you need to discover what motivates you, as well as where your blind spots are, says Cast. The goal is to “start synthesizing what you’re feeling,” and the Kellogg professor thinks journaling can help that process. “You capture what’s on your mind. You capture new ideas. You capture things that are worrying you. You capture things that are joyful. You capture areas of gratitude. You capture fears, new ideas you might want to pursue,” Cast says. “Test out the process of journaling and see if it takes.” Whether you are planning to make a career pivot during the pandemic or laying the groundwork for an eventual move, be open to exploration. That way, when COVID-19 is finally behind us, you’ll be ready to stretch yourself professionally and take that next big step in your career trajectory. *** Did you enjoy this post about career change during the pandemic? It originally appeared on the Blacklight, our weekly newsletter for professionals. At the Blacklight, we aim to illuminate with every dispatch that lands in your inbox. If you’re thirsty for guidance to help you slay it at work or as a student and move your goalposts closer, sign up today! The post Career Change During a Pandemic appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
28 Jul 2020, 11:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: UCLA MBA Application Essays, Tips for 2020-2021 |
 UCLA Anderson School of Management has released the UCLA MBA application for 2020-2021 cycle. Located in Los Angeles, UCLA has an unmatched alumni network throughout the region. Entertainment and real estate are still dominant industries in Los Angeles. Other popular sectors include technology and entrepreneurship. These factors make UCLA Anderson a desirable business school with faculty and alumni considered thought leaders in business. Anderson’s MBA class is small and close-knit. Accordingly, you should keep personal aspects in mind when working on the UCLA MBA application. Review Anderson’svalues before starting this set of essays. Remember, character matters to UCLA: Share Success, Think Fearlessly, Drive Change. We have helped countless applicants achieve their MBA dreams. Contact us to learn how Stacy Blackman Consulting can help with your UCLA MBA application. To learn more about the UCLA MBA program, visit the school website. UCLA MBA Application Essays for 2020-2021 Required Essay (same for both new applicants and reapplicants): How have events of the past year influenced the impact you would like to make in your community, career, or both? (250 words maximum) New to the UCLA MBA application this season, this essay asks about the past year. In the past, Anderson has asked about your career goals. This year, Anderson’s admissions committee instructs: “We welcome reflection on any events that influenced you in your personal or professional lives, or in society in general, and look forward to learning about specific ways you want to leave your mark.” When you think about the mark you want to make, use the filter of Anderson’s values. The values are: Share Success, Think Fearlessly, Drive Change. How do you plan to use those values in your post-Anderson life? This UCLA MBA application essay focuses on both the professional and personal side of your candidacy. Also, Anderson is looking for students that are engaged, courageous, humble, and open. As you structure this essay, consider telling one or two pivotal stories about you. Examples will bring your application alive. Remember, UCLA is looking to understand how you are different from other applicants. Also, Anderson wants to understand your values. Consider moments in the past year that have triggered reflection for you. Some questions for brainstorming: Have you experienced a personal setback? What is your family background? Have you lived outside your home country? When did you face a turning point or make a big decision about your career? What were some of your proudest moments? When have you worked with a team? In the past year, have you been surprised, angry, or shocked by any world events? Be both grounded and visionary when describing your desired impact. For example, briefly explain what you plan to do immediately after graduation. Then, describe how you will make your mark over the long-term. Your path should be a logical extension of your past experiences and your experiences at UCLA Anderson.  Optional Question (same for both new applicants and reapplicants): Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the Admissions Committee should be aware? (250 words maximum) Optional essays are truly optional. There is no need to respond if you don’t have any special circumstances. For example, reasons to write this essay include gaps in work experience, poor grades, or no recommendation from a current manager. If you choose to write this essay for your UCLA MBA application, be clear and concise. First, explain the situation briefly. Then, tell what has changed and improved. Finally, focus on explanations rather than excuses. The best UCLA MBA application essays will show you have moved on from your challenges. Therefore, improvements in your life make an excellent case for admission. For Reapplicants Reapplicants are those who applied to the MBA program within the last two application years, so those who applied three or more years ago are considered new applicants. Reapplicants may answer one or both of the essay questions above as options, and they must provide additional updates within text boxes given in the application for any new test scores, career developments, or other changes since their last application. UCLA Anderson reapplicants have choices this year. For example, you may answer one or both of the essay questions. Also, you will be required to provide updates in the application. These updates may be enhancements to your application. Therefore, keep in mind what may have changed for you since your last application. Consider how you want to communicate it to Anderson. For instance, the essays are an ideal way to describe a change in your goals, mindset, or leadership experiences. On the other hand, if your changes are more quantitative, the application will be sufficient. The post Tuesday Tips: UCLA MBA Application Essays, Tips for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
28 Jul 2020, 11:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Advice for 2020-2021 |
 Are you targeting the MIT Sloan School of Management this application season? Today, we’re sharing our tips for the MIT Sloan cover letter and personal video statement to help you create a positive impression through your application materials. The MIT Sloan MBA admissions committee has put together a set of useful video tips on their YouTube channel, including a “day in the life” of a Sloan student. In watching the videos, you can see what Sloan values. One of the former MIT Admissions Officers on the SBC team shared that MIT seeks applicants who can navigate, “problems of progressive complexity, ability to adapt to ambiguous situations, independence of thought, humility/consideration for others.” Students at MIT Sloan are engaged, creative, and thinking outside the typical MBA frameworks. A study group profiled in the videos includes engineering and design students. One student in the video just returned from a trip to Africa. The video describes vibrant social events and life in Cambridge and Boston. Experiencing MIT Sloan in person, through networking, or virtually, can also show you if you can see yourself there. Then, your task is to convince the admissions committee that you are MIT Sloan MBA material. MIT Sloan Cover Letter MIT Sloan seeks students whose personal characteristics demonstrate that they will make the most of the incredible opportunities at MIT, both academic and non-academic. We are on a quest to find those whose presence will enhance the experience of other students. We seek thoughtful leaders with exceptional intellectual abilities and the drive and determination to put their stamp on the world. We welcome people who are independent, authentic, and fearlessly creative — true doers. We want people who can redefine solutions to conventional problems, and strive to preempt unconventional dilemmas with cutting-edge ideas. We demand integrity and respect passion. Taking the above into consideration, please submit a cover letter seeking a place in the MIT Sloan MBA Program. Your letter should conform to a standard business correspondence, include one or more examples that illustrate why you meet the desired criteria above, and be addressed to the Assistant Deans of Admissions, Rod Garcia and Dawna Levenson (300 words or fewer, excluding address and salutation). The MIT Sloan cover letter format has been used for many years to select candidates. In some ways, this structure reflects the MIT goal to admit candidates with practical (though innovative) ideas and experience. Also, the cover letter is a way to describe your key accomplishments and use them to prove that you embody the outlined criteria for admission. Those criteria are: independent, authentic, and fearlessly creative — true doers. Take the MIT Sloan cover letter idea literally and approach this essay as if you were applying for a demanding new job. Can you highlight essential stories in your background to prove you take an innovative approach? How can you tell stories that will show you have integrity and passion? Specifically, use one or more concise illustrations. For example, you could discuss a time when you have approached a business problem and provided a creative solution. Have you innovated a process at work? Perhaps you have suggested a new approach to a customer problem. Think about times when you have been able to provide a fresh perspective at work. For each story, describe what you did in those situations to demonstrate problem-solving skills and passion. While showcasing your skills and talents is crucial, don’t forget to demonstrate your ability to work with others and support them. Also, note that MIT Sloan is on a quest to find those whose presence will enhance the experience of other students. Therefore, you want to demonstrate that you will be an asset to the community and will embody a collaborative approach.  Video Statement Please take a minute to introduce yourself to your future classmates via video. Include a bit on your past experience and why MIT Sloan is the best place for you to pursue your MBA. Videos should be a single take (no editing) lasting no more than one minute and consisting of you speaking directly to the camera. We recommend using an application such as QuickTime or iMovie to record yourself. Upload the video file according to the detailed instructions within the application. We support the following file formats: .avi, .flv, .m1v, .m2v, .m4v, .mkv, .mov, .mpeg, .mpg, .mp4, .webm, .wmv Should you experience difficulties uploading your file, please ensure that you’re using a modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Safari) on the fastest wired internet connection available. An intermittent or slow internet connection can cause uploads to timeout. As the MIT admissions committee advises in a short video, this format is all about getting to know you better. Areas evaluated include your presence, passions, and interests. Because you will need to record the video in one take, we suggest preparing for this video statement like an interview. Write down the stories you might tell about yourself—ideally personal, engaging, and revealing of who you are. Then, practice. First, brainstorm stories that reveal the real you. For example, you might be passionate about travel and experiencing new cultures. Have you made several exciting trips in your life? Each has likely given you a new perspective. Maybe you developed a passion for Thai cuisine after a trip. Perhaps you have collected Brazilian art from your travels to that country. Think of a few discrete examples. Second, practice, practice and practice those stories until you feel comfortable. Third, put the stories and the introduction together, and practice the flow before you start recording. Finally, when recording the video essay response, take your time, and speak slowly and clearly into the camera. Though it will feel awkward, try to be natural and comfortable as you respond. The most important goal is to convey your personality. Remember, the admissions committee wants you to be authentic and have fun! *** Are you stumped by your MIT MBA application? Contact Stacy Blackman Consulting to learn how we can help. We can even help you practice for the video essay! The post Tuesday Tips: MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Advice for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
28 Jul 2020, 14:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Cornell MBA Application Tips for 2020-2021 |
 Are you targeting Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management? The Cornell MBA application is now live, so it’s time to tackle those MBA essays. Cornell Johnson is a flexible MBA program within an Ivy League campus. The school offers multiple full-time options, including a one-year MBA, specialized executive programs, and the Cornell Tech MBA in Ithaca and NYC. Whatever your goals and background, Cornell has a program that can help you achieve them. Johnson also works to integrate the MBA experience into the larger Cornell community and to leverage coursework at the other top-ranked graduate programs to provide more opportunity to Johnson students. When approaching the Cornell MBA essays, set your application strategy before you start working. Then, identify the program at Cornell you are most interested in. Do some serious school research. This means research the faculty, coursework, and career opportunities. Also, examine your background and goals to see what is most important to explain as part of your story. Make sure to inject a layer of personal background and experiences—what makes you truly unique. Finally, make sure you have solid academics, work experience, and extracurriculars. These can be covered in your Cornell MBA essays, resume, or recommendations. If you identify any holes in your profile or story, take the time to fill them prior to starting your application. You can explain anything necessary in the optional essay. Cornell MBA Application Essays and Tips Goals Statement Immediately post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___. Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: In 5 – 10 years post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___. Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: How has your experience prepared and encouraged you to pursue these goals? This short answer question is a quick way to cover the relevant career goals questions for your Cornell MBA application. Make sure that your answers are clear and are consistent with your recommenders. Once you have identified your industry, company, and role in both the short- and long-term, you can briefly answer how your past experiences have led you to your goals. Then, think about the pivotal moments in your career and how they have prepared you for the next step, or have helped to realize your passions. Finally, pick a very brief example to cover here. In addition, you can use your resume and recommendations to showcase any other skills you need to accomplish your goals. You can explain more about your accomplishments and leadership in the Impact Essay. Impact Essay At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. How do you intend to make an impact during the next several years of your education and/or career? (350 words maximum) The Cornell Johnson admissions committee advises you to use this essay “to explore the intersection of engagement and community culture. Whether during the program or following graduation, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve.” The first step to answering this question is to do your research. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Cornell Johnson has suspended campus visits. However, you can still connect with the admissions team through virtual admissions events. Or, as Johnson suggests, reach out to current students using the community search tool. Another way to find a personal connection is to reach out to friends, family, and work colleagues to see if anyone knows a current or future member of the Johnson community. As you prepare for conversations to learn more about Cornell Johnson, think about programs, extracurricular activities, and the informal ways that students might interact. Johnson offers groups for interests ranging from cooking to ice hockey and has professional clubs for every possible career path. Those formal groups, or connecting in a classroom or party, might be ways you make connections at Johnson. Showing that you know the school well is important for a successful Cornell MBA application. Once you have identified opportunities to contribute to campus life at Johnson, ideally you support your story with evidence from your past experiences. For example, maybe you want to bring new speakers to the Johnson Marketing Association because you have contributed to your young professionals’ group at work. Explain that you have successfully organized events featuring major speakers for a large group of people, and can bring that skill to create impact for your peers at Johnson.  Back of Your Resume Essay The front page of your resume has given us a sense of your professional experience and accomplishments as well as your academic summary and extracurricular involvement. If the back page reflects “the rest of your story,” please help us get to know you better by sharing ONE example of a life experience, achievement, or passion that will give us a sense of who you are as a potential community member. Of all the Cornell MBA essays, this one will show the admissions committee who you are on a personal level. Think about highlighting areas you may not have been able to touch on in the previous essays. Consider an example that demonstrates your unique personal attributes. Another idea might be to focus on community involvement. For example, if you have a consistent theme of involvement in a charity or activity, this is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate why you became involved and what you have done over the years. As the Admissions Committee suggests: “We encourage you to think about your proudest accomplishments, interests and passions, and personal highlights that will help us to get to know you as a person and potential community member. We value creativity and authenticity and encourage you to approach this essay with your unique style.“ This essay can be written as a 500-word essay, or delivered in one of the alternative submission formats: a slide presentation, links to pre-existing media (personal website, digital portfolio, YouTube, etc.), or visually enhanced written submissions. If you use an alternative format, you should tailor the format you use to the message you want to send. For example, if you discuss your involvement in a cultural activity, a YouTube video would be a good way to show that experience. Or, if you have a start-up idea, you may want to showcase it on a website or through a slide presentation. Don’t be too distracted by format, though. While a creative format might impress the admissions committee, the substance is the most important part of the essay. Optional Essay You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson (350 words maximum). If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application and candidacy since the last time you applied for admission. Please also review our Admissions Policy for additional information about re-applying (350 words maximum). This optional essay allows for either an explanation of any weaknesses in your application or additional information. Your issue could be a poor GPA or GMAT. Or you might have concerns with your undergraduate record. Possibly you were unable to provide a recommendation from a current supervisor. If any of those issues exist, this is the place to give the background. Briefly describe the situation and what may have contributed to the issue (illness, family difficulties, etc.). Make sure you don’t editorialize—facts only. Focus the balance of your essay on looking forward. What have you done in the recent past to demonstrate your skills and intelligence? For re-applicants, this is the place to explain what you have done since your last application. Make sure to strengthen your case for admission. If you have a new GMAT score or took classes in calculus or statistics, you have a solid case for improved academics. A promotion could signal career development and leadership. Even if you don’t have a clear-cut update to describe, you can use this space to explain how you have improved your career goals or fit with Cornell. *** To talk to Stacy Blackman Consulting about your Cornell MBA essays, don’t hesitate to contact us! Learn more about applying at the Cornell Johnson website. The post Tuesday Tips: Cornell MBA Application Tips for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
29 Jul 2020, 13:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: B-Schooled Episode #14: What Should You Do With Your Life? |
|
In the latest episode of the B-Schooled podcast, our host Erika is joined by Kellogg JD/MBA and fellow SBC consultant Gina for an in-depth discussion about how applicants can use the MBA application process to reflect on what they really value and what kind of work might make them truly happy. Listen to B-Schooled episode #14 here, or on any of the podcast apps listed below. B-Schooled is available on most major podcast apps, including: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher TuneIn Please be sure to subscribe to B-Schooled so that you don’t miss a thing. If there’s something you’d like for us to cover in a future episode, please email podcast@stacyblackman.com. We’d love to hear from you! The post B-Schooled Episode #14: What Should You Do With Your Life? appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
30 Jul 2020, 06:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Investment Banking MBA Career Path |
|
Many professionals with their eyes on an investment banking MBA career path know that a degree from an elite business school can help them achieve that goal. After all, the most prestigious firms–JP Morgan Chase & Co., Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, etc.–recruit almost exclusively from top-ranked MBA programs. Business schools such as Wharton, Harvard, and Stanford appreciate the strong work ethic associated with investment bankers and money managers. This trait usually translates into immediate readiness for the rigors of the MBA classroom. Because the investment banking MBA career path is so popular, today we’d like to share a Q&A with SBC consultant Puja, whose professional trajectory followed a similar route.  Puja had a double major in undergrad at the University of Pennsylvania, which included a B.S. in economics from Wharton. She was one of only eight undergraduates selected to enroll directly into the Wharton School, where she earned her MBA. Let’s dive in and find out how business school influenced Puja’s investment banking MBA career journey. Why did you decide to pursue an MBA? I attended the Wharton School as an undergraduate because of my keen interest in financial markets and investing. As I considered my future career plans, I realized many of the successful business leaders I admired had an MBA degree. In particular, I was excited to take graduate-level finance and management courses with an applied focus while at the same building a valuable network of cohorts. With this in mind, I applied and was accepted into Wharton’s “submatriculation” program as an undergraduate. That allowed me to earn both my undergraduate and MBA degrees within five years. After graduating from Wharton, I joined UBS Investment Bank in their real estate group. Why did you become an investment banker? What initially interested you about the field? I began to work towards an investment banking career after earning my MBA from Wharton. The idea of working on large corporate deals was intellectually exciting to me. Plus, the prospect of applying my strong quantitative foundation, along with the ability to interface directly with clients, was extremely appealing. What are some of the most rewarding aspects of working in investment banking? Some of the most challenging issues? The most rewarding aspect of being an investment banker was becoming a subject matter expert on the real estate industry and the companies that comprised it, both at a financial and operational level. Additionally, as an industry specialist within a larger investment banking division, I enjoyed partnering with other groups in the firm such as M&A, restructuring, or capital markets to complete a deal successfully for the end client. Investment banking can involve long hours and extensive travel, especially when trying to meet a deadline. However, I truly enjoyed my time as an investment banker. It allowed me to form strong, lasting bonds with my colleagues. Also, I enjoyed interfacing with clients directly at an early stage in my career. Additionally, the extensive financial modeling skills required is a necessary down payment as it allows for a deeper insight into how a company operates. These skills were invaluable as I moved into the Private Equity industry at Warburg Pincus. How did your MBA prepare you for your investment banking career? My MBA prepared me for my investment banking career through both coursework and building my network. With respect to coursework, I chose to concentrate on finance, investment management, and statistics courses. This was extremely beneficial in preparing me for the extensive quantitative work that investment banking requires. Also, it was incredibly helpful to learn from the experiences that my fellow students had in investment banking before coming to business school. The deep friendships that I gained with my fellow MBA students gave me an inside view into the investment banking industry—especially concerning the different cultures of various firms—which allowed me to target my career search process strategically.  What was the career path that led you to this position? What do you think helped you most on your journey to becoming an investment banker? As an undergraduate and graduate student at Wharton, I had several internships, both domestically and internationally, across consulting, investment management, and investment banking. As I considered the range of my experiences, I found that investment banking best spoke to my skills and interests. Earning my MBA was the critical element in my decision to become an investment banker. Learning about investment banking from classmates that had taken this path before business school gave me a sense of the career progression, as well as the challenges. The rigorous coursework gave me the confidence that I had the quantitative and qualitative foundation needed to succeed. What advice would you give to students considering pursuing careers as investment bankers? First, I would advise students considering an investment banking career to learn as much about the industry as possible. This includes networking with investment bankers across various functions and firms. Prospective students should understand their own skill sets and interests. Investment banking requires both a robust quantitative foundation coupled with the ability to interact with clients. Finally, an investment banking career is one of the best ways to start a career in finance. It gives you the necessary skills to pursue a career in related areas such as Private Equity or Venture Capital. About Puja Since graduating from Wharton, Puja spent over 12 years in financial services. She began her career at UBS as a real estate investment banker. She then joined global private equity firm, Warburg Pincus. There, she helped raise over $44 billion for their private equity funds as a Director in the Fundraising and Investor Relations Group. As a member of the recruiting team at Warburg Pincus, she helped to recruit students from elite business schools. Puja is also an active alumna and ambassador for the Wharton School and has served as an interviewer for the MBA program. This professional spotlight on investment banking and SBC consultant Puja originally appeared on OnlineMBA.com. The post Investment Banking MBA Career Path appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
03 Aug 2020, 11:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Georgetown MBA Deadlines for 2020-2021 |
 Are you interested in Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business? Then get out your calendar, because the Georgetown MBA deadlines for the 2020-2021 admissions season have been announced! Georgetown MBA Deadlines 2020-2021 Round 1 Application due: September 28, 2020 Decision released: December 11, 2020 Round 2 Application due: January 6, 2021 Decision released: March 18, 2021 Round 3 Application due: March 29, 2021 Decision released: May 5, 2021 Round 4 Application due: April 26, 2021 Decision released: May 27, 2021 All applications are due by 11:59 p.m. ET on the deadline day. *** The 2020-2021 application is now open. For more information on applying, please visit the Georgetown MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your Georgetown MBA application, or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Georgetown MBA Deadlines for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
03 Aug 2020, 11:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Georgetown MBA Essays for 2020-2021 |
 Is the McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University on your shortlist of target MBA programs? Then get ready, because the updated Georgetown MBA essays for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle are here. Georgetown MBA Essays 2020-2021 Notes from the school: Our goal at Georgetown McDonough is to craft a diverse class with people who have varying personal and professional life experiences. Select one essay that best highlights your experiences, characteristics, and values. Please select one of the following three essays to complete in 500 words or less and include the essay prompt and your first/last name at the top of your submission. Essay Option One Georgetown McDonough places a strong emphasis on principled leadership, providing both curricular and co-curricular opportunities to strengthen your leadership skills. Describe a time when you’ve led a team in a professional environment to implement a new idea or process. What leadership characteristics did you utilize? What could you have done to be more effective? And most importantly, what skills will you be able to bring to the teams you lead at McDonough? Essay Option Two Hoyas Helping Hoyas. Georgetown McDonough embodies the ethos that people and organizations can and should contribute to the greater good. The admissions committee would like to better understand how you’ve demonstrated these values during uniquely challenging times. Describe a time where you’ve put the needs of others ahead of your own, or ahead of the bottom line. We look forward to learning more about the challenge you faced, what unique characteristics you brought to that scenario, and what you learned from it. Essay Option Three Think of the business leader or role model you admire or aspire to be. What are the defining characteristics of his or her personal brand that you see in yourself? Give an example of how you have been able to emulate these characteristics in your professional career and how your personal brand will enrich the McDonough community Video Essay What makes you unique? In a 1-minute video, describe the most compelling aspects of yourself that you believe makes you unique from other MBA candidates. (Hint: 1 minute goes fast! We already have your resume and goals – share something new!) For more instructions, view our Video Essay Guide. Optional Essay Please provide any information you would like to add to your application that you have not otherwise included. (500 words or fewer) Re-Applicant Essay Required for re-applicants. How have you strengthened your candidacy since your last application? We are particularly interested in hearing about how you have grown professionally and personally. (500 words or fewer) *** The 2020-2021 application is now open. For more information on applying, please visit the Georgetown MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your Georgetown MBA essays or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Georgetown MBA Essays for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
03 Aug 2020, 12:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: HEC Paris Essays for 2020-2021 |
 HEC Paris has a rolling admissions process. You can apply throughout the year, to begin your MBA journey in either January or September. The following are the HEC Paris essays, found within the application. Essay 1. Why are you applying to the HEC MBA Program now? What is the professional objective that will guide your career choice after your MBA, and how will the HEC MBA contribute to the achievement of this objective? (500 words max.) Essay 2. What do you consider your most significant life achievement? (250 words max.) Essay 3. Leadership and ethics are inevitably intertwined in the business world. Describe a situation in which you have dealt with these issues and how they have influenced you. (250 words max.) Essay 4. Imagine a life entirely different from the one you now lead, what would it be? (250 words max.) Essay 5. Please choose from one of the following essays, 250 words max.: a) What monument or site would you advise a first-time visitor to your country or city to discover, and why? b) Certain books, movies or plays have had an international success that you believe to be undeserved. Choose an example and analyse it. c) What figure do you most admire and why? You may choose from any field (arts, literature, politics, business, etc) Essay 6. Optional: Is there any additional information you would like to share with us? (900 words max.) *** For additional information on applying, please visit the HEC Paris MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your HEC Paris application essays or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! *updated in August 2020 The post HEC Paris Essays for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
03 Aug 2020, 13:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: London Business School MBA Deadlines for 2020-2021 |
 Are you targeting the top-ranked London Business School for your MBA degree? Then mark your calendar, because the London Business School MBA deadlines for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle have been confirmed! London Business School MBA Deadlines 2020-2021 Round 1 Application due: September 11, 2020 Decision released: November 19, 2020 Round 2 Application due: January 5, 2021 Decision released: March 31, 2021 Round 3 Application due: March 4, 2021 Decision released: May 25, 2021 Round 4 Application due: April 27, 2021 Decision released: June 22, 2021 The 2020-2021 application is now open. For more information on applying, please visit the London Business School MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your LBS MBA application or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post London Business School MBA Deadlines for 2020-2021 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
03 Aug 2020, 13:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: IESE MBA Application Essays for 2019-2020 |
 Is IESE Business School in Spain on your shortlist of target MBA programs? Then let the brainstorming begin! You’ll find the IESE MBA application essays for the 2020-2021 admission season within the online application. IESE MBA Application Essays Application Essay #1 If you had to come up with a motto for your life, what would it be and why? Please give an example of how you have demonstrated it (word limit 300 max) Application Essay #2 Describe your short and medium-term post-MBA goals? How will the IESE MBA help you achieve them? (word limit 300 max) Optional Essay What would you like to highlight about yourself or your journey which may have not been captured in your application? (word limit 300 max) *** For more information on applying, visit the IESE MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your IESE application essays or wish to discuss your business school plans, don’t hesitate to reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post IESE MBA Application Essays for 2019-2020 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
|
|
||
