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Updated on: 28 Nov 2018, 12:20
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: MBA Application Extras |
 While the MBA application essays and interviews may get the bulk of your attention, schools are increasingly adding crucial extra components to their application requirements. Below are some important application “extras” to prepare for and Personal MBA Coach’s advice on how to tackle each. Optional Essays Most schools offer candidates the chance to complete an optional essay. However, DO NOT feel compelled to answer these questions. In most instances, I only advise candidates with extenuating circumstance to provide additional information here. (There are a few schools where I do advise all candidates to answer the optional question, but this is the exception and not the rule). Such extenuating circumstances include low GPAs, gaps in employment and an unusual choice of recommenders (i.e. not asking a direct supervisor). Keep in mind with these essays: be brief and to the point. Do not offer long-winded excuses or any more information than is needed. Reapplicant Essays Most schools have different requirements for reapplicants (and different definitions of a reapplicant in terms of years since the last application). For the majority of schools, reapplicants are required to answer an additional essay. For other, such as Columbia, only the reapplicant essay is required. Be sure to look carefully at the requirements for each school. While I have written more extensive advice for reapplicants here, it is crucial that as a reapplicant you articulate how you are both a stronger candidate and more interested in the school. This should include specific ways you have enhanced your profile (i.e. higher GMAT/GRE, supplemental education), professional advancements (even if you did not get a promotion, there is plenty to talk about) and any changes to or clarity in your goals. Equally as important is showing how you have taken the time to learn more about the school, reconfirming or enhancing your interest in the program. Video Essays Videos are increasingly being used by business schools as an additional way to assess applicants. After all, you will have limited career success if you are unable to nail an interview. For some schools, such as MIT, this video question is provided in advance and applicants submit a pre-recorded video with their applications. For other schools, including Kellogg, Yale SOM, and INSEAD, applicants are asked to record videos on the spot after submitting their applications. For these statements, be yourself. These videos offer admissions committee members the chance to learn more about you on a personal level. Potential topics include passions, values, hobbies, etc. While you do not want to sound overly rehearsed, it is important to practice for these videos. If you have the question, write out a rough script in advance of filming. If you do not, practice sample questions. As you practice, consider factors such as audio quality, demeanor, and fluency in addition to the content itself. Personal MBA Coach has proprietary software available to help candidates prepare for these videos and includes analysis of sample videos in its comprehensive packages. Pre/Post-Interview Essays Pre and post-interview essays are another tool that schools are using more and more often. Harvard Business School requires a post-interview assessment. MIT and Booth have added additional pre-interview essays for candidates invited to interview. All of these essays have very short deadlines. Our advice here is to again be yourself. Look to add complementary information and avoid repeating any content from your original application essays. Our comprehensive packages also include analysis of these pre/post-interview essays. Need help? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 and top 10 interviewers on our team. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for over 10 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
Updated on: 28 Nov 2018, 12:20
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Personal MBA Coach’s M7 Essay Analysis E-Book |
 Personal MBA Coach is pleased to announce the release of our newest e-book: M7 Essay Analysis. Available for free to all Personal MBA Coach customers and newsletter subscribers, this e-book features Personal MBA Coach’s proprietary guidance on how to tackle the 2018-2019 application essays for ALL M7 schools including: Harvard Business School, Wharton, Columbia Business School, Chicago Booth, Kellogg, Stanford GSB and MIT Sloan. Get insider tips on what admission committee members are looking for in each essay from our founder, a Wharton MBA and MIT graduate on the AIGAC Board of Directors with 11 years of admissions consulting experience. Our e-book also includes insight on handling the MBA application extras, such as optional questions, video interviews and reapplicant essays. To download, click here and sign up for our newsletter to receive both the M7 Essay Analysis e-book and weekly MBA application tips. Need one-on-one support with your MBA applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 11 years with a 96% success rate. We also conduct mock interviews with our team of former top 10 MBA interviewers. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
Updated on: 28 Nov 2018, 12:21
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: The Wharton TBD |
 Wharton has rolled out invitations for the round 1 TBD interviews. If you were lucky enough to receive an invitation, congratulations! Now comes the harder part – planning for this unique experience. Group interviews are a bit more complicated to prepare for, but once you learn how to address them, they can actually be easier than a regular interview. First, the basics. Here are the components of a Wharton TBD: 1. Each candidate gives a one-minute introduction to the group, providing an opportunity to get to know one another (this is the first 5 minutes) 2. This is followed by a 35-minute team discussion, during which you should present the results of your discussion to the interviewers. 3. Once the group exercise is done, you will have a brief individual 1:1 interview Personal MBA Coach advises candidates to approach these sessions as they would any other productive team discussion. The basics of proper respect and etiquette apply here. While it is important to show your own thinking, it is equally as important to be polite and not attempt to dominate the sessions. Naturally, come prepared with you own unique ideas and do your research in advance. However, be flexible and work with the group. We recognize this can be a harder interview than most to prepare for. As a Wharton alum, I conduct a limited number of unique TBD practice sessions with my team of former M7 interviewers to help candidates. These sessions, which are scheduled this year between Nov 3 and Nov 14th, will mirror the actual Wharton interview, providing candidates an opportunity to work together with other applicants during a group session. They will then be followed by one-on-one interviews with former M7 MBA interviewers. Each participant will receive our proprietary interview preparation guide and a personal feedback session. Slots are filling fast so sign-up today. Need one-on-one support with your MBA applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 11 years with a 96% success rate. We also conduct mock interviews with our team of former top 10 MBA interviewers. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
Updated on: 28 Nov 2018, 12:22
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Advice For Applicants Considering Round 2 |
 Many of you may be wondering whether you should pull the trigger and apply to business school during round 2 this winter. Personal MBA Coach is here to help you make this difficult decision. First, a few of the basics. While I have many applicants apply during round 1, for most schools there is no disadvantage of waiting until round 2. (There are some exceptions to this rule that I discuss with candidates on a case by case basis). Therefore, whether you waited until round 2 to enhance your profile, did not get your applications completed in time or just began considering an MBA, round 2 could be a great option for you. Further, while many business schools have a third round, there are limited round 3 spots available. In fact, HBS eliminated its round 3 deadline this year unless you are applying for 2+2, their deferral offering. This means applying during round 2 is by far your best choice if you would like to enroll in business school during the fall of 2019! Now, for the harder part! Is now the right time for you? Below are 4 signs it might be time for an MBA. If any of the following ring true (or you suspect they will in the next 6-12 months), consider pulling the trigger now! 1. You are ready to switch careers. Switching careers and writing your business school applications at the same time can be tricky. While it works for some to change industries or functions pre-MBA, post-MBA is a great time to switch careers for most applicants. In many ways, an MBA is the great equalizer and post-MBA students often start at a similar level to each other. If you want to switch careers, an MBA is a great place to start! 2. You have plateaued at work. Do you feel stuck at your current level? Do you need an MBA or advanced degree to reach the next step in your career? If you feel that you have learned all you can in your current role, not only will additional experience be less likely to help you, but it may limit your options. If you feel you are close to plateauing, it might be the time to apply. 3. You have 3-5 years of pre-MBA experience. The average applicant has approximately 5 years of pre-MBA experience at the time of enrollment. After 6+ years, your chances of admission begin to decrease slightly each year. However, do not worry if you are already there as we have many more experienced applicants who also get in. We can craft a story to explain your roles to date. That said, the longer you wait, the more likely it is that you will run out of time to give your dream school your best shot. Consider shooting for the stars, now! 4. It is a good time to become a student. Going back to school full-time is a major lifestyle change. Your own circumstance can be a big factor in this decision. Is your partner going back to school and it will be easier to study together? Perhaps personally you are looking to make a big move or change. If you saved up enough money and think that you will want a break in mid-2019, consider applying now. Need one-on-one support with your MBA applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 11 years with a 96% success rate. We also conduct mock interviews with our team of former top 10 MBA interviewers. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
Updated on: 28 Nov 2018, 12:23
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Personal MBA Coach’s Accelerated 7-Week MBA Application Plan |
 Fall is flying by and the winter holidays are just around the corner. While many of us are looking forward to the upcoming holiday season, it is also a reminder that round 2 MBA application deadlines will be here before we know it. To keep you on track, Personal MBA Coach has included a roundup of application deadlines below along with our advice on how to best use the next ~two months. While many of our clients are well into the editing phase with finalized school lists and testing under their belts, if you are just getting started, we can help you get back on track.  * Deadline is a round 3 deadline Here is our accelerated 7-week MBA Application Plan: Week 1: Finalize your school list and testing plans If you have not yet taken the GMAT/GRE or have yet to achieve your target score, you should schedule your test and begin your test preparation ASAP. While you can take the test at any time during this 7-week window, be sure to develop a concrete plan today. Similarly, if you have not finalized your school lists, that should be priority number 1. Do online research, speak to current students or alumni within your networks and attend any school events or tours near you. There may not be adequate time to plan a campus visit before you apply, but do not let this deter you from applying this year if the time is right for you. Week 2: Select and prepare your recommenders and develop your MBA resume Next, you should be selecting your recommenders. I have written extensively on selecting and preparing your recommenders in case you need help deciding who you should ask to write on your behalf or determining what information to provide them with. Remember, well thought out letters take time and your recommenders are busy; do not wait any longer to ask them, especially with the holidays just around the corner. In addition, all applicants will need an MBA resume - more on this here. As an added benefit, developing this resume will force you to take stock of your accomplishments, helping you to determine what to include throughout your applications. Weeks 3, 4 & 5: Write, Write, Write Ideally, we want to have at least one month for this process. However, if you are diligent (we suggest our clients send a new draft every 2 days and return edits within 2 days) this timeline is possible. First, get your thoughts on paper. Think through your career goals, why you want an MBA, what you hope to learn from the program and what makes you unique. Most accomplishments from your resume will not fit into your essays and this is to be expected. Then begin drafting one question at a time. I advise you to begin with the easiest schools or questions as your writing will improve throughout the process. However, if your timing is very tight start with the application due first. Week 6: Short Answer Questions Do not forget to leave plenty of time to answer the short answer questions. Read each requirement carefully (often candidates get thrown off by questions with character limits vs word limits) and minimize repetition. Week 7: Proofread!!! Be sure to leave PLENTY of time to proof read. Whenever possible, avoid writing during the last week or two and get someone unfamiliar with your work to proof your application. Our clients’ applications are proof read by an expert proofreader who was not involved during the application development process. Need one-on-one support with your MBA applications?Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 11 years with a 96% success rate. We also conduct mock interviews with our team of former top 10 MBA interviewers. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
Updated on: 28 Nov 2018, 12:25
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: What To Do If You Were Rejected In Round 1 |
 As round 1 decisions begin to roll in, many candidates are not receiving the news they had hoped for. While this is no doubt disappointing, do not give up hope. Personal MBA Coach would like to help you develop a strategy to realize your MBA and career dreams. Candidates rejected from their target schools during round 1 have two options for continuing to pursue their MBA dreams. Option 1: Apply to additional schools during round 2. If now is really the ideal time for you to get an MBA (see our advice on this here) or if you were shooting for the stars with your round 1 list, you should consider altering your strategy and submitting additional applications during round 2. Round 2 is a very viable option! Follow these 3 key pieces of advice: 1) Broaden Your School List. Unfortunately, not everyone can earn an MBA from HBS. In some cases, it comes down to a numbers game: your profile is great but there were simply too many qualified former consultants from your native country in this year’s pool, making it even harder to stand out. This is why my average candidate applies to 5 schools. For some, this means having schools from a range of tiers. For others, this means spreading your eggs across multiple top-tier school baskets. Of course, for all candidates your target list must match with your candidate profile. Be sure that you not only have a wide enough list, but one that is reasonable based on your GPA, GMAT/GRE and professional experience. Personal MBA Coach prides itself in offering open and honest feedback on your chances of success at any given school. We want our candidates to reach high, but we also will not sugarcoat it for you. 2) Retake the GMAT/GRE. Even though time is limited for January deadlines, you may want to consider retaking the GMAT/GRE or switching from one exam to the other. Remember, depending on your profile and background, you might need a score above the average to be competitive. This is particularly true if you had a lower GPA or are from an overrepresented applicant pool. As you plan to re-take the exam, consider your previous preparation. Did you get help last time around? If not, consider hiring a personal tutor who can give you targeted advice on how to improve your score. 3) Improve Your Application Development and Interview Preparation. Finally, reapplicants should focus on improving all aspects of the application itself. As you develop a new plan, take an honest look at your application (or we offer a ding report service to do this for you) and think about whether your story clearly and consistently came across. Some questions you should consider include: Have you shown your unique value add? Did you share what truly makes you shine? Were your career goals clear? Did you actually answer the questions? Did you show passion? If you received an interview invite: How did the conversation go? Were your adequately prepared? Option 2: Strengthen your profile and apply again next year. For those of you willing to wait another year to give your dream school a shot, consider these 3 pieces of advice in addition to the suggestions above: 1) Improve Your Extracurricular Activities. Step up your involvement outside of work. Seek leadership positions within your existing organizations or consider joining a new activity or group. For more details, read our blog: Improving Your Extracurricular Profile. 2) Look for Leadership Opportunities at Work. In any way you can, take on more at the office. A promotion is of course ideal, but even if that is not possible, look for ways to stretch yourself within your existing role. Or consider volunteering for internal committees or projects to help strengthen your company and culture. Review these tips on how to make your career work harder for you for more specific suggestions. 3) Address Your Skill Gaps. Think about where you are weakest and see what you can do now to close these gaps. Is there a course you could take to improve your analytical skills? Perhaps you got an interview but did not get accepted? If so, consider options for improving your presentation and interview skills. Everyone has weaknesses; take the time now to address yours. By starting early for next year, you can take the time to fine-tune your story, rethink your LOR strategy and ensure all aspects of your application work together cohesively. Every year we successfully advise reapplicants on what to change (and what not to) to increase their chances of success. Need one-on-one support with your MBA applications?Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 11 years with a 96% success rate. We also conduct mock interviews with our team of former top 10 MBA interviewers. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
28 Nov 2018, 11:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Personal MBA Coach’s Top 4 Pieces of Advice For MBA Hopefuls |
 Advising MBA candidates is my life’s passion. Over the last 11 years, I have given countless applicants advice through one-on-one consulting sessions, blogs, e-books, webinars and in-person presentations throughout the world. Reflecting back on the tips I have provided again and again, I want to share my top 4 “words of wisdom” for MBA applicants. 1) Be Authentic Do not write what you think admissions committee members want to read. A perfect candidate profile does not exist. Instead, your uniqueness will be your greatest selling point. Your essays should paint a clear picture of who you are, what motivates you and what you are passionate about. Do not feel compelled to show how you fit the mold that seemingly makes up the “ideal” candidate. If you have no desire to run a non-profit, that is ok. If you are not motivated by improving the environment, do not pretend that you are. Readers will see right through this and you could end up doing more harm than good. 2) Craft Your Own Story In addition to being authentic, your application as a whole should tell YOUR story. In fact, if I think about the area in which my candidates often need the most help, crafting a winning personal story comes to mind first. Defining the story may be the hardest and the most important part of the application. I advise my candidates to start this process months (if not years!) in advance. The good news? Everyone has a personal story. You may just need help figuring out how to make it shine. So, what should you include in your personal story? This will differ for every candidate but across the board I can tell you, NOT EVERYTHING! Read more about crafting your story here. 3) Broaden Your School List While we write a lot about the M7 schools, the reality is that there are an increasing number of top programs outside of this group. Further, there can be some elements of a numbers game within the MBA application process: your profile is great but there were simply too many qualified former consultants from your native country in this year’s pool, making it even harder to stand out. This is why my average candidate applies to 5 schools. For some, this means having schools from a range of tiers. For others, this means spreading your eggs across multiple top-tier school baskets. Of course, the target list for all candidates must match the candidate profile. Be sure that you not only have a wide enough list, but one that is reasonable based on your GPA, GMAT/GRE and professional experience. Personal MBA Coach prides itself on offering open and honest feedback on your chances of success at any given school. We want our candidates to reach high, but we also will not sugarcoat it for you. 4) Plan Ahead If you are reading this and targeting a January 2019 application submission, that is ok! You still have time to develop winning applications (more on this here). However, if you are considering an MBA in the future, there is plenty that you can and should be doing now! Early planning can be key to success. Candidates who are applying in 1-3 years have the opportunity to make career moves, beef up their extracurricular profiles, make their jobs work harder for them and more. Personal MBA Coach offers a popular early planning package to help candidates make the right decisions NOW to achieve their career dreams. Need one-on-one support with your MBA applications?Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 11 years with a 96% success rate. We also conduct mock interviews with our team of former top 10 MBA interviewers. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
05 Dec 2018, 09:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Can I Really Finish My Applications In Time? |
 It is hard to believe that December is upon us and the first round 2 application deadline is just over 4 weeks away (see deadline summary below). The holiday season is hectic for everyone, but for those of you working on your MBA applications, this can be a particularly challenging time of year. You may be doubting whether you can get everything done in time. Personal MBA Coach prides itself on offering honest feedback so here is the good, the bad and the ugly! The Good News: Many of you can still meet early January deadlines! Wondering if you can really work your magic and finish in time? Ask yourself these 5 questions: 1) Have you already narrowed down your school list? 2) Have you taken (or are prepared to take) the GMAT/GRE? 3) Have you already selected and prepared your recommenders? 4) Have you begun brainstorming your essays? 5) Do you have a large portion of your holiday vacation set aside to work on your applications? If you have answered yes to most or all of these questions, do not despair! Even if you have not put pencil to paper (so to speak) on your essays, resume and short answer questions, you can finish on time with the proper dedication. We have successfully guided candidates with a shortened timeline for a limited number of schools (and adding additional schools in future rounds or years as needed). But do not wait much longer! The Bad News: If you answered no to a few of these questions, you have your work cut out for you; honestly, you may not be ready this year. In this case, particularly if you have not finished your testing and do not have recommenders nailed down or schools identified, ask yourself how crucial it is that you apply THIS year. If now is really your time (perhaps you have 4+ years of experience and have plateaued at work or 2019 is an ideal year, personally, for you to start school), you may be able to meet the challenge. However, if you do not have this level of urgency, I generally advise candidates to apply when they can submit the strongest applications, which might not be now. While you can successfully reapply, each application will remain on record; therefore, we do not advise submitting applications to which you have not given at least 100%. The Ugly News: If you have answered no to all of the questions above, January 3 may not be realistic for you (though some schools offer mid/late January deadlines that could still be feasible). This is particularly true if holiday obligations will prevent you from dedicating the majority of your time to your applications. Regardless of which boat you are in this year, there is still plenty that you can do now. Even if you do not end up hitting submit in January, early planning can always work in your favor. Still not sure which bucket you fall into or need additional help? today! Need one-on-one support with your MBA applications?Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 11 years with a 96% success rate. We also conduct mock interviews with our team of former top 10 MBA interviewers. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
12 Dec 2018, 11:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Your MBA Application Checklist |
 With just a few weeks left until MBA application deadlines, it is time to make your list and check it twice. While most checklists will merely cover the basics, Personal MBA Coach challenges you to ask these 9 questions to assess whether your applications are REALLY ready! 1) Is your story clear? Does the reader walk away knowing who you are and what matters to you? 2) Have you thought out and articulated why you want an MBA? To get promoted or to gain “business skills” are NOT good enough reasons. 3) Are you consistent throughout all of the application components? Your resume, essays, short answer questions and letters of recommendation should all include the same general message. Any inconsistencies are an instant red flag. 4) Does your application include specific information about the target school? Admissions committee members read thousands of essays every year and it is very easy for them to determine who is genuinely interested in the school and knows a lot about the program. 5) Are your letters of recommendation strong enough? Did you advise your recommenders to use specific examples and compare you to other candidates? 6) Are your essays easy to read? Or, do you find yourself re-reading paragraphs because you do not see how they fit into the essay? 7) Did you have someone else read your essays? This will give you an outsider’s objective opinion of your accomplishments and help to ensure you are talking about your experiences with the right level of detail for someone outside of your industry. 8) Do you have an MBA specific resume? For an MBA resume, you want to show how you have been successful and demonstrated leadership. You are selling your future potential. Make sure not to get too detailed here though. 9) Have you actually answered every question? It can be tempting to go off book or include additional information but adcom members ask each question for a specific reason. Ensure you are answering the question asked and not offering what you think they want to hear. If after answering these questions you have doubts about whether your applications are strong enough, Personal MBA Coach has a limited number of gut check packages available this season. ! Need one-on-one support with your MBA applications?Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 11 years with a 96% success rate. We also conduct mock interviews with our team of former top 10 MBA interviewers. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
14 Dec 2018, 12:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Announcing Personal MBA Coach’s Early Admission/Deferral Programs eBook |
 An increasing number of MBA programs offer current undergraduate students the opportunity to gain a head start on the MBA application process. Harvard Business School’s 2+2 is one of the most well-known MBA deferral programs, however, many top business schools have their own offerings. For those current students considering applying NOW to business school, Personal MBA Coach has developed this eBook to give you the lay of the land including application requirements and deadlines for all top programs. Request your free copy here! Need one-on-one support with your applications? Every year Personal MBA Coach advises current undergraduate students on how to successfully navigate the early admission/deferral MBA application process. today! Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 11 years with a 96% success rate. We also conduct mock interviews with our team of former top 10 MBA interviewers. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
18 Dec 2018, 09:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Last Minute Letter of Recommendation Tips |
 Whether you dragged your feet in asking for an LOR or your recommender has had too many other things on his/her plate, you might find yourself in a crunch to get your letters submitted in time. Do not panic. Even with limited time, there are some clear steps you can take to ensure that your recommendations shine. Remember, letters of recommendation are an integral part of your MBA application and may require more work than you might think. Often, we see candidates ask someone to write a letter, ensure it gets submitted, and call it a day. This can be a big mistake. Your role in the LOR process should be more involved than this. We advise taking some key steps now. 1) Arm your recommender with key information. The more your recommenders know about your short-term and long-term goals, the more they can highlight examples and skill sets that would best demonstrate your ability to succeed in these endeavors. 2) Remind your recommenders of your key accomplishments and provide them with some thoughts on areas you would love to see covered. Do not be shy about selling yourself; this will not only make their lives easier, but it will ensure they share the best stories. Your recommenders are busy (especially during the holidays!) and it is easy for them to forget details. Take the time to think of the top stories you would like them to recount and remind them of these. 3) Share your application by offering them a copy of your essays or an overall summary. Let them know the traits you are highlighting and the success stories you are telling. The idea is for the letter to complement the rest of your application. This means you do not want them to repeat exactly what you have already said. At the same time, you want to make sure there is no conflicting information. Perhaps they can share another example that demonstrates a complementary skill set or touches on an area you were not able to cover in your essays. The more they know about what you are already saying, the more likely they are to write something that supports that. 4) If possible, set up an in-person meeting or a conference call. Bring a written document to this meeting (or send it ahead of time) that includes the items discussed above. In this meeting you can briefly go over the information you have gathered. 5) Remind your recommenders to compare you to other candidates. Just as we advise that your resume and essays go beyond listing tasks, your recommendations should go beyond recounting what you have done. Successful MBA students are leaders who have differentiated themselves from their peers, going above and beyond what would be expected in the role. One of the best ways to show this is to compare you to your peers and others who have had the job previously. 6) Thank your recommender in advance and let them know how grateful you are. Do not forget your recommenders as you finalize your holiday gifting. Nothing extravagant is needed or recommended, but a thoughtful thank you gift can go a long way. 7) Finally, ask each recommender if you can do anything to help them or provide them with any additional information. Remember, be appreciative and not demanding. This is a favor and while you may have many needs, approach them graciously. Unsure of what to hand over to the recommender or how to start the conversation? Personal MBA Coach is here to help with all aspects of the application process! If you would like individual and personal support, please find information about Personal MBA Coach’s comprehensive packages or to learn how I can help! As a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan BS graduate, I have been helping candidates get into the schools of their dreams with a 96% success rate for over 11 years. Email me today at: |
28 Dec 2018, 09:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Short Answer Questions, Video Essays and Optional Essays |
 While the essay questions may get the bulk of your attention, there are other crucial application components that require significant effort including short answer questions, video essays and optional essays. Below is Personal MBA Coach’s advice on how to tackle each. Short Answer Questions Do not underestimate the importance of the short answer questions. Set aside adequate time to perfect these answers. Many schools, including HBS, have lengthy short answer sections that will require significant time. These questions serve a few important purposes. First, they allow you to share additional aspects of your candidacy. Naturally, there are many accomplishments and traits that you will not cover in your application essays; this is your chance to share these important successes. The format of the short answer section also allows admissions committee members to easily compare you to your peers. Ensure to take the time to stand out by carefully selecting the accomplishments discussed. Wherever possible, these answers should be complementary and not repetitive. Finally, short answer questions are a test of consistency and cohesion. The voice used here should match that shared throughout your essays and should paint a credible and concrete image of who you are as a candidate. Video Essays Videos essays are increasingly used by top programs to assess applicants. After all, you will have limited career success if you are unable to nail an interview, so this is adcom’s way of evaluating your physical presence / delivery. For some schools, such as MIT, the video question is provided in advance and applicants submit a pre-recorded video with their applications. For other schools, including Kellogg, Yale SOM and INSEAD applicants are asked to record videos on the spot within two days to one week after submitting their applications. For these statements, be yourself. These videos offer admissions committee members the chance to learn more about you on a personal level. Potential topics include goals, passions, values and hobbies, among other more challenging questions. While you do not want to sound overly rehearsed, it is important to practice for these videos. If you have the question, write out a rough script in advance of filming. If you do not, practice sample questions. As you practice, consider factors such as audio quality, demeanor, and fluency in addition to the content itself. Personal MBA Coach has proprietary software available and a list of prior questions asked to help candidates prepare for these videos and includes analysis of sample videos in its comprehensive packages. Optional Essays Most schools offer candidates the chance to complete an optional essay. However, DO NOT feel compelled to answer these questions. In most instances, I only advise candidates with extenuating circumstance to provide additional information here. (There are a few schools where I do advise all candidates to answer the optional question, but this is the exception and not the rule). Such extenuating circumstances include low GPAs, gaps in employment and an unusual choice of recommenders (i.e. not asking a direct supervisor). Keep in mind with these essays: be brief and to the point. Do not offer long-winded excuses or any more information than is needed. Need help? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for over 10 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
03 Jan 2019, 08:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Personal MBA Coach’s January MBA Planning Kick-Start: Part 1: Making Your Career Work Harder For You |
 Eat healthier. Exercise more. Spend more time with your family. These may be some of the new year’s resolutions you had in mind. But for those of you hoping to apply to business school in 2019, add MBA application planning to this list. To give you a head start and keep you on track in the new year, Personal MBA Coach has developed a 4 part series: MBA Planning Kick-Start! Check out part 1 today: Making Your Career Work Harder For You! Without changing jobs, there are some steps you can and should be taking now to ensure that when you sit down to draft those essays and prepare for your interviews you have plenty to talk about. 1) Be honest about your desires. It may seem simple, but many of us are afraid to be straightforward about our ambitions at work. Whether or not you can be transparent now about your MBA aspirations, let your manager in on your long-term goals. Tell her what skills you hope to master. If there is an experience at work you want to have, ask for it. Many managers will be more than happy to find projects to help you close existing gaps or develop new expertise. 2) Take on extra work. Yes, I really said this. Now is the time to ask for extra projects. Look specifically for the ones that can fill experience gaps. Even if you have already let your manager know about the skills you are looking to perfect, do not rely on him to find assignments that fit your needs. In an ideal world you would just work on your dream projects, but we know that is not possible. By identifying your own additional projects, you will get more chances to build the skills you desire. There is no better time of year to put in longer hours than during these cold, dark, snowy months (for those in winter climates) or temperature days (for those lucky enough to live in California or a warm climate). 3) Get involved at the office. Internal projects are a great way to beef up your leadership experience and almost every company has an internal initiative that requires help. Offer to plan the next off-site, set up a training or speaker series, or lead recruiting efforts. If nothing exists, create it yourself. Starting a new program at work will score you bonus points with your colleagues and give you plenty to share on your applications. 4) Look for mentoring opportunities. Even if you have not had the chance to manage your own team, you can still begin to perfect your management skills. Take a new hire or even an intern under your wings and show him the ropes. If you can be a formal mentor, great! But if such an opportunity does not exist, even an informal mentor relationship will supplement your leadership experience. 5) Get your own mentor. Find someone that you connect with at work or someone you admire and invite her for coffee or a drink. Ask about her career. See if she is willing to give you general career guidance. At this stage, you do not want to ask for anything specific. Instead, start to build a relationship. Over time, you might be lucky enough to develop a champion in the office or a future recommender. Regardless, getting advice from someone more senior can always help. Need help? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for over 11 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
09 Jan 2019, 11:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Personal MBA Coach’s January MBA Planning Kick-Start: Part 2: Building And Improving Your Extracurricular Profile |
 To give you a head start and keep you on track in the new year, Personal MBA Coach has developed a 4 part series: MBA Planning Kick-Start! Check out part 2 today: Building And Improving Your Extracurricular Profile (In case you missed it, check out part 1: Making Your Career Work Harder For You) Strengthening extracurricular profiles is one of the key areas I am working on with round 1 candidates this January. Now is the time to build or strengthen your extracurricular profile. By putting in the extra effort now, you will have ample opportunities to add real value before the deadlines this fall and avoid being penalized for not having a track record of involvement and leadership by the time summer comes. There are three key guiding principles to keep in mind when developing your own extracurricular strategy. 1) Quality Over Quantity: No one has the time to work with 10 different organizations. Having a laundry list of activities is not going to appeal to admissions committee members. Instead, focus your efforts on organizations or areas where you can have a real impact and add value. There is no “right” number of activities; this will vary from client to client and depend on the depth of your work. However, more often than not, less is more, particularly if you are just getting started now. 2) Focus On Leadership: You have probably heard this time and time again, but it is important enough to repeat. Business schools want leaders. This is true for all schools, not just HBS. While there are countless ways that you can (and should) display leadership throughout your profile, extracurricular activities are one great opportunity to do so. Look for an organization where you can step up, or explore options to expand your role at an existing organization. Take the time now to do this so that you have clear results to share come essay time. 3) Activities Should Fit With Your Profile: Successful applications share a consistent and impactful story. The reader should instantly see who you are, what has defined you and why you have made specific choices. Choose areas that you are passionate about and that fit with your story. For example, if you want a career as an educational consultant, consider volunteering in the education industry. If your passion is tennis, teach tennis lessons to underprivileged children in your neighborhood. You do not need to pick the most unique or prestigious charity. Instead, do what you love! During application time, you will find many strategic ways to use your activities to fill in gaps in your profile. Do not underestimate the importance of extracurriculars and get started today! Unsure about what your gaps are? Need advice on where to begin or how to step up? We can help! This is the perfect time to get started and have our personal one-on-one support through the entire process, including crafting your extracurricular strategy! Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, Personal MBA Coach regularly helps applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for over 11 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! Sign up now and lock in rates before they increase this spring! |
12 Jan 2019, 08:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Personal MBA Coach’s Overview of Top EMBA Programs |
 Are you looking to get ahead professionally while maintaining your full-time job? Have you demonstrated significant leadership expertise? If so, an Executive MBA may be an option for you. Top EMBA programs vary considerably in terms of required pre-MBA experience. For example, we have helped accomplished applicants with 4-6 years of experience successfully secure seats in the Columbia EMBA program and the Wharton EMBA program. In contrast, all of our successful MIT Sloan candidates meet Sloan’s 10 year minimum for years of experience. EMBA programs also differ in terms of class schedule and required time on campus, with some holding classes Fridays and Saturdays every other week, some Saturdays only and others one full week every five weeks. Wondering which EMBA program could be right for you? Check out Personal MBA Coach’s new eBook, Overview of Top EMBA Programs and let us help you get into your dream MBA program. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, Personal MBA Coach regularly helps applicants navigate their EMBA applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for over 11 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! |
16 Jan 2019, 09:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Personal MBA Coach’s January MBA Planning Kick-Start: Part 3: Planning Ahead For The GMAT/GRE |
 To give you a head start and keep you on track in the new year, Personal MBA Coach has developed a 4 part series: MBA Planning Kick-Start! Check out part 3 today: Planning Ahead For The GMAT/GRE (In case you missed it, check out part 1: Making Your Career Work Harder For You & part 2: Building And Improving Your Extracurricular Profile) If you have not researched standardized tests since you took the SAT or ACT many years ago, a lot has changed. GMAT scores are valid for 5 years AND you can take the exam up to 5 times during a 12-month period. There is also a lifetime max of 8 tests and you can take the test once every 16 calendar days. Similarly, you can take the GRE once every 21 days and up to five times within any 12-month period. GRE scores are also valid for 5 years. There is currently no lifetime test limit for the GRE. Further, you can cancel your score and the report does not go to the school if you are not happy with the result. This change has led to candidates taking the exam multiple times. Our average candidate now sits for the exam 2 - 4 times (with some giving the test even more tries). While this policy may seem great, it has caused average GMAT/GRE scores to rise as more and more candidates cancel low scores. What does all this mean for MBA hopefuls? The pressure to perform is high and doing so takes advance planning! Personal MBA Coach has 5 tips to ensure you maximize your score. 1) Start earlier than you think! This may seem obvious, but with scores valid for up to 5 years and the ability to re-take the test, there is no reason to wait. In fact, the earlier in your career you take the test, the better. Most of the skills tested in the GMAT/GRE you mastered in undergrad (if not before) so the longer you wait, the less you will remember about reading comprehension and math fundamentals. 2) Take a practice test now to see your baseline. Even if you do not intend to go full force on your studying just yet, take a practice test and see how you stack up. Check this score against the averages at your target schools to get a real sense of what it means. Getting a true feel for how much work you have ahead of you will allow you to be more honest with yourself when putting together a study plan. 3) Set a schedule for yourself. Be realistic in terms of how many weeks you will set aside for studying and how many hours in each week you can carve out. Putting pencil to paper on a study plan will make it easier to stick to and less likely that you will need to cram last minute or short change your prep time. 4) Think about how you learn best and use this to inform your study plan. You know how you learn best. Is it from a book? Is it online? Do you thrive with personal one-on-one support? There are countless support options available for the GMAT/GRE so think about what would be best for you and plan accordingly! Personal MBA Coach tutors who scored in the 99th percentile are available to provide you with customized GMAT and GRE tutoring on your schedule and based on your specific needs. Our tutors can also help you determine which test (GMAT or GRE) is best for you. 5) Read short articles in The Economist or Science every week. This is a great way to sharpen your reading comprehension skills and expand your vocabulary. Pick a few short articles every week and make your life easier come test time with very limited effort. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, Personal MBA Coach regularly helps applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for over 11 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! Sign up now and lock in rates before they increase this spring! |
23 Jan 2019, 08:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Personal MBA Coach’s January MBA Planning Kick-Start: Part 4: Expanding Your Network For Long-Term Success |
 To give you a head start and keep you on track in the new year, Personal MBA Coach has developed a 4 part series: MBA Planning Kick-Start! Check out part 4 today: Expanding Your Network For Long-Term Success (In case you missed any part of our series, be sure to read part 1, part 2 and part 3.) It should come as no surprise that networking is a key part of every long-term career strategy. It is also something that many of my clients struggle with. To get you on the right path this year, Personal MBA Coach has some tips on when and how to start networking. It is never too early to start networking. Whether you are planning to apply to business school later this year or a few years from now, a strong network will position you for success. There are four areas where you should look to build your network: at work, with alumni/students from your target schools, with professionals in your preferred field, and with admissions professionals. While each of these is worthy of its own blog, in the spirit of “MBA Planning Kick- Start,” I have included one goal for each of these networks for now. 1) Network at work: Find one mentor at work and begin to establish this relationship. Look for someone who knows you well and is more experienced. If the relationship progresses, this can be a source of solid career advice from someone who can identify your strengths and weaknesses. Perhaps this mentor could even write you a letter of recommendation when the time comes. However, do not force the relationship. Start slowly with coffee or lunch, ask a lot of questions, and see if there is a good fit. Remember, finding a true mentor is a process, so do not get discouraged if it takes time to find the right person. 30-day goal: Schedule one lunch or coffee. 2) Network with alums at your target business schools: Speaking to current students or alumni at your schools of choice is an important part of the process. Many candidates ask me how many students they should reach out to. I advise two or three per school. Having a laundry list of students that you have reached out to is not necessary and including it anywhere in your application would be overkill for most schools. Instead, try to have a few meaningful conversations. Alumni directories from your undergraduate university or current/former firm and your personal network are great places to start. 30-day goal: Locate and email two students about their business school experiences. 3) Network with professionals in your target field: Setting up these relationships now is a great way to get a head start for recruiting time. Start small by finding someone who has your dream role and invite her out for coffee. Tell her you want to learn more about her job and how she got there. Most people love to talk about themselves and are happy to help aspiring professionals. Avoid being too pushy. Meet at a time and place convenient for her and do not ask for anything. This is not the time to ask for help getting a job or for a recommendation. Instead, let the relationship grow organically. For many, speaking with strangers can be intimidating but do not let this stop you. Meeting with alumni from your alma mater or friends of friends/family can be an easier place to begin. 30-day goal: Reach out to one professional and ask for a meeting. 4) Network with admissions professionals. While there are many ways to connect with your target schools, MBA fairs are a great way to start. You can meet multiple admissions professionals in one place and ask any burning questions. You will also get tips from the presentations and other students. Plus, it is easy and low risk. For those in the New York, Washington DC or San Francisco areas, I will be presenting at The MBA Tour in San Francisco on January 28th, New York on February 2nd and Washington DC on February 4th so come check it out! I will also be offering free resume reviews at the QS World MBA Tour in NYC this Saturday, January 26th. If you are not nearby or cannot make these events, the MBA Tour, Forte Foundation, QS World MBA Tour and many other organizations have tours throughout the world. 30-day goal: Locate one event in your area and register/put it on your calendar. Remember, networking is a skill and one you should perfect throughout your career. So, start small and take one step today! Wherever you are in the MBA application process, Personal MBA Coach is here to help. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, Personal MBA Coach regularly helps applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team. Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for over 11 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! Sign up now and lock in rates before they increase this spring! |
30 Jan 2019, 11:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: 5 Tips For Acing The MBA Interview |
 With interview invitations beginning to roll out, it is time to ensure you are ready for this important final stage in the application process. First, if you have already been invited to interview at your target school(s), congrats! While all of your hard work on the applications, essays and GMAT/GRE may have gotten you this far, do not stop yet. The interview is one of the most important parts of the process and it is crucial that you are adequately prepared. Read some key tips on ensuring you are ready to win them over and then be sure to practice! Our former interviewers from M7 schools conduct mock interviews if you would like some additional support. 1. Learn more about each school’s interview process. Many MBA programs treat the interview differently. While fit will always be key, some schools are known to dig much deeper into specific areas of your application and background than others. Doing your research will help you prepare accordingly while putting you at ease during the interview. 2. Know why you want to join the school, carefully considering the program’s culture. This goes without saying but school specific interests and knowledge are key. Make sure you are prepared to discuss the aspects that attracted you to each program. In addition, you should demonstrate your understanding of the school’s culture and how you will thrive and specifically add value on campus. 3. Be sure you can clearly articulate your goals. It is important that you are prepared to succinctly explain what you want to accomplish in your career (this should tie with your essays), why this path is exciting to you and how you will succeed. Arrive armed with specific ideas to show the interviewer how you plan to make your unique mark. 4. Prepare stories; we find that bulleting works best. Research the most common questions asked for each school and prepare stories in advance. When crafting your behavioral question response, do not spend too much time setting up the situation. Instead, detail the key steps you took and how you excelled in each example. Always keep in mind the skills you want to highlight and tailor the stories accordingly. Generally, 4-5 stories can be easily modified to cover most top questions. Assign each story to potential questions in advance. Remember: Situations, Action, Result. 5. Show enthusiasm, bring questions & be yourself. These does not need much clarification. Ask only positive questions, be excited, smile and relax. Your background got you this far so be yourself and enjoy the process. Just as with any interview, practice and planning are key! Personal MBA Coach has former M7 interviewers lined up to do mock interviews with you. Our clients have told us this is one of the most valuable steps they have taken to prepare. Email scott@personalmbacoach.com or click here to set up a mock interview today. For HBS, our mock interview includes help with the post-interview reflection and we also offer a limited number of group mock interview sessions for Wharton / Ross. Personal MBA Coachis here to help with everything from early planning, to GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring to comprehensive packages! We have been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for over 11 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at 617-645-2424 or email at scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your career dreams a reality! Sign up now and lock in rates before they increase this spring! |
07 Feb 2019, 16:02
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: A Look At The 2019 Financial Times MBA Rankings |
 The Financial Times recently released its 2019 Global MBA Rankings and once again Stanford Graduate School of Business secured the #1 position. Harvard Business School earned the #2 spot, up considerably from its #5 place in 2018. INSEAD was pushed to #3 while Wharton slipped to #4. New to the top 5 this year was Shanghai based China Europe International Business School (CEIBS), up considerably from #8 in 2018 and #11 in 2017. The CEIBS EMBA program was also ranked #5 in the Global EMBA Rankings. This is the best performance to date for the 25-year-old program. (Be on the look out for a more detailed discussion on the CEIBS MBA Program.) London Business School, Chicago Booth, MIT Sloan, Columbia Business School and Berkeley Haas rounded out the top 10, in that order. While there was some position shifting, there was no change in the programs included in the top 10 list. Yale SOM jumped to #11, just missing the top 10 this year. US MBA programs again dominated the top 10. However, there remain strong options for students looking to earn an MBA outside of the US, with 3 international programs ranked in the top 10. As you review these rankings, keep the following advice in mind. Remember, rankings can aid in the school selection process but are not the be all end all! Personal MBA Coach is a full-service admissions consulting firm and school selection is a crucial part of the process that we help with! 1) Use rankings to get the lay of the land. MBA rankings provide a great overview of the business school landscape: what schools exist, where they are located and how they generally stack up. 2) Statistics such as acceptance rate and average GPA and GMAT/GRE of enrolled students will give you some good benchmarking data, however, use these numbers as an initial guide only. The whole applicant package matters and plenty of candidates with a lower than average GPA or GMAT/GRE will get in each year and vice versa. 3) Average ranking over time is important. When you are courting that investor 10 years from now, she will not know what the ranking was when you applied but may look at the current ranking. This is why it is important to pay attention to general ranking trends. 4) Nearly every ranking scale will give different results. Of course, certain schools will be in the top 10 in nearly every ranking, but the general list varies considerably from source to source. As with historical data, the general trend is most important. 5) Rankings vary by industry! While all business schools focus on providing strong general management education, each school has a specific area of expertise. Pay attention to how the schools stack up in the industry specific rankings as well. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, regularly helps applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team. has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for over 11 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality! Sign up now and lock in rates before they increase this spring! You may also like these other blog articles: 5 Tips For Acing The MBA Interview Expanding Your Network For Long-Term Success |
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