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27 Apr 2023, 07:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: Booth – An Insider’s Guide |
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Think of Booth as just a ‘finance school’? Think again. Booth’s marketing and entrepreneurship departments are also fantastic. Marketing is distinguished by its focus on analytics and its recent exclusive partnership with Nielsen. The Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship is recognized as a highly influential incubator. These assets and more helped Booth retain the top spot on U.S. News’ latest MBA rankings, as you may have seen earlier this week. Read on for more insights about Booth that you won’t readily find on the website. The Basics Booth’s main campus for its full time MBA program, the Harper Center, is located 10 miles south of downtown in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. The Gleacher Center in downtown Chicago hosts the part-time program and is available for full-time student use (taking evening classes, holding study group meetings, etc.). Booth enrolls a sizeable class each year, with 620 full time students in the Class of 2023. Its class profile is comparable to peer schools on many metrics (3.6 average GPA, 729 average GMAT) except that it skews slightly lower on female enrollment at ~40%. Like many top MBA programs, the application process requires two written essays and two letters of recommendation; it does not (yet) include a video essay component. Interviews are by invitation only and are typically conducted by second year students. Academics Booth’s tagline is that it is the ‘world’s most flexible MBA program’. There is only one required class called LEAD, which provides students with exposure to leadership and team building concepts. Each student receives candid feedback about his/her first impression, public speaking skills, ability to influence others, and many more essential leadership skills. Cohorts of ~60 take the LEAD Program together (from orientation through week 3 of Q1 classes). Booth uses “[url=https://www.chicagobooth.edu/why-booth/educational-philosophy]The Chicago Approach[/url]” to business education, a theory-based, multidisciplinary framework that aims to teach students how to think as opposed to teaching them direct, rote knowledge. Popular classes include: [list] [*]New Venture Challenge: one of the top accelerator programs in the nation, this is a class combined with a seed funding program. Grubhub and Simple Mills were both started through the NVC.[/*] [*]Behavioral Economics: Chicago Booth is known for its top Behavioral Economics department (led by Richard Thaler) and this class gives students a real taste. It is structured with 10 different modules, each focusing on a different human bias (and how you can minimize the bias in your own life).[/*] [/list] Booth has a lot of teamwork. Almost every class has students grouped into teams (sometimes voluntary, sometimes assigned) and roughly half of the assignments are group assignments. Class participation is usually a component of the grade in each class, but it’s often 10% or less. Booth has grade nondisclosure, meaning students collectively agree not to share their grades with potential employers. Most students want to do well (B- or above) but are not too focused on grades beyond that. Each class has a 3.0 maximum average GPA, and professors grade on a bell curve (~15% of the class receive As, ~15% of the class receive Cs). The school allows each student to take up to three classes Pass/Fail. A nuanced difference from many programs is that classes meet once per week for 3 hours, as opposed to twice a week for half that amount of time. Culture & Student Experience While not universally true, Booth’s academically rigorous reputation tends to attract students who are interested in the learning aspect of business school and enjoy quantitative thinking. The culture is collaborative, with a strong pay-it-forward culture. Most recruiting prep is run by second-year students who give countless hours to help the first years. The flexibility of the curriculum allows every class and study group to have different people in it. Most students live in downtown Chicago and take the Metra train, drive, or use Uber/Lyft to commute to classes in Hyde Park. Over 60% of students live in the Lakeshore East/Millennium Park neighborhood. Roughly 30% live in other Chicago neighborhoods south and north of the Loop (e.g., South Loop, Wicker Park, Lakeview) and the rest live in Hyde Park or the suburbs. Chicago Booth alumni are very involved in the student experience. Each year, the school hosts a career day, where it invites alumni panelists from all different careers to present information about their job and answer questions from students. The school also invites well-known alumni back to speak about twice a month. A lot of Booth alumni are still in Chicago and are very willing to connect with current students. Extracurriculars Clubs are organized into career clubs, affiliation clubs, and ‘other’ clubs. The most popular career clubs are the Management Consulting Group, Investment Banking Group, Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital Group. Popular affiliation groups include Chicago Women in Business, Jewish Business Student Association, African American MBA Association, and Muslims in Business. Booth has an AMAZING partners club (and a sub-club for families with children). Partners can take classes on campus and are invited to almost everything. Most students co-chair at least one club and participate in 2 – 5 other clubs, depending on the time commitment required. Joining a club can cost $20-$200 per year, depending on the club. Most clubs let students join the newsletter to hear about upcoming events for free (and join mid-year if they wish). Other extracurricular highlights include: [list] [*]Booth Follies: a comedy club that puts on multiple shows every year[/*] [*]Random Walk: pre-MBA trips to help students meet and bond with a few classmates before school starts. There are multiple location options in the US and internationally. There is also a mystery option and an option in Chicago. Random walk is voluntary, but most Boothies (~85%) choose to go.[/*] [*]Ski trip: trip in the fall where skiers of all skill levels travel to a different location each year to ski and hang around the lodge.[/*] [/list] Closing Thoughts We hope this article provided insight into aspects of the Booth experience you won’t easily find on the school’s website or in the forums. Having a nuanced understanding of what makes each program unique will not only help you decide where to apply (or attend), it will also help you put your best foot forward during the admissions process. Best of luck on your journey. If we can be of assistance, reach out to [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/request-consultation/]request an initial consultation[/url]. The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/04/27/booth-insiders-guide/]Booth – An Insider’s Guide[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
04 May 2023, 10:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: MBA Rankings and Their Role in School Choice |
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The results are in! The latest MBA rankings have been released by [url=https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/mba-rankings]U.S News & World Report[/url], with the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business being at the top of the list. U.S News uses eight distinct ranking factors to compile its MBA rankings, which include placement success, student and recruiter survey data, and class profile statistics like average GPA and standardized test scores. While MBA rankings provide an objective and widely recognized evaluation of business schools, the list shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when narrowing down your list of target programs. What other factors should you consider and how do you use the latest MBA rankings to narrow down your options? That’s what we’re going to tackle in this article. Are MBA rankings reliable? To begin, let’s answer the question of whether the rankings that are published year after year are reliable. The complicated answer is yes and no. Yes, the rankings can be a singular source of accurate data for some basic facts about each program. Keep in mind, however, that rankings are typically based on a certain set of criteria and data points. A ranked list may not capture all the important factors that you should consider. On top of that, different MBA rankings may use different methodologies and criteria, which can result in varying outcomes. So, what does this tell you? Do your due diligence. Use MBA rankings as just one tool in your evaluation process. Supplement the information provided by the rankings with other sources, such as school websites, conversations with students and alumni, and in-person visits (if possible). What factors should I consider when choosing a business school? Choosing the right business school can be a daunting task. Ultimately, the most reliable indicators of a school’s quality and fit will be based on your individual needs and priorities. Make an informed decision by considering the factors that are most important to YOU. These factors can include: Your Career Goals What do you want to achieve by getting an MBA? Do you want to switch industries, gain leadership skills, or start your own business? By understanding your goals, you’ll easily evaluate the different MBA programs and find the one that aligns with your career aspirations. Latest MBA Rankings Check out the various MBA rankings, such as those published by the Financial Times, U.S. News & World Report, and Forbes. These rankings can give you an idea of which schools are most respected in the business world and may help you narrow down your choices. School Location Location can be an important factor to consider, especially if you want to build a network in a specific industry or if you want to live and work in a particular area after graduation. If you are interested in a particular industry, attending a school located in a hub for that industry may provide unique opportunities and advantages. Program Structure Look at the curriculum, course offerings, and teaching methods of each program. Do they offer the courses and specializations you are interested in? Are there opportunities for experiential learning, such as internships or consulting projects? Also, consider the class size and student-to-faculty ratio, as these can impact your learning experience. To know more about what differentiates one MBA program from another, we recommend reading: [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2021/05/10/what-matters-in-choosing-an-mba-program-2/]What Matters in Choosing an MBA Program[/url]. School Culture and Community Another important factor to consider is a school’s culture and community. Look at the latest class profile, extracurricular activities, and alumni network. You want to find a school where you will fit in and feel comfortable, as well as one that offers opportunities to build lasting relationships with classmates and alumni. Cost and Financial Aid Finally, MBA programs are expensive! It’s important to consider the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses. Look into financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and loans, to help offset the cost of the MBA program you’re targeting. In Summary… In addition to reading the MBA rankings, the key to choosing the right business school is self-reflection. Once you know what you need and want out of program, you can conduct thorough research and evaluate each school holistically to ensure it is a fit for you. If you’re still having trouble narrowing down your list of business schools, try using our [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/03/11/which-mba-program-is-right-for-you-use-our-mba-fit-tool-to-find-out/]MBA Fit Tool[/url]. Based on your answers to a series of questions about your background, interests, and career goals, the tool generates a list of recommended business schools that might be a match for you. Or reach out to [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/request-consultation/]request a free consultation[/url] – we work with each client to personally curate their list of target schools and then maximize their chances of acceptance! The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/05/04/mba-rankings/]MBA Rankings and Their Role in School Choice[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
12 May 2023, 08:00
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: Stanford MBA Essay Tips |
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Earlier this week, Stanford announced its application deadlines for the ’23-’24 admissions cycle and confirmed that its main essay questions will remain unchanged next year. Round 1 applications will be due on September 12, 2023 and Round 2 applications will be due on January 4, 2024. Given the reflection and iteration required to craft a compelling Stanford application, it’s never too early to get started on the essays. As such, today we’re arming you with our best Stanford MBA essay tips. Read on to help get your brain churning! Stanford MBA Essay Questions [list] [*]Essay A: What matters most to you, and why? For this essay, we would like you to reflect deeply and write from the heart. Once you’ve identified what matters most to you, help us understand why. You might consider, for example, what makes this so important to you? What people, insights, or experiences have shaped your perspectives?[/*] [*]Essay B: Why Stanford? Describe your aspirations and how your Stanford GSB experience will help you realize them. If you are applying to both the MBA and MSx programs, use Essay B to address your interest in both programs.[/*] [/list] Both essays combined may not exceed 1,050 words. Stanford GSB admissions recommends up to 650 words for Essay A and up to 400 words for Essay B. Note that Stanford’s application has historically also included two optional short answer questions, which we recommend clients complete. As the school has not explicitly confirmed that these questions will remain the same next year, we are holding off on sharing our guidance right now. More to come once they do, however! Stanford MBA Essay Tips – Where to Start Before you think about putting pen to paper (or fingers to keys, as the case may be), it’s critical to take the time to truly understand Stanford GSB and what it looks for in successful applicants. To us, the best encapsulation of this can be found in the GSB’s mission statement: “Change lives. Change organizations. Change the world.” While many business schools aspire to educate leaders that will make a difference in the world, there is a reason that ‘change lives’ comes first in this motto. The GSB embraces a strong belief that change originates from people. People with different perspectives interacting, challenging each other, and ultimately joining forces to push the limits of what seems possible. No man or woman can create change in a vacuum. In practice, we find that successful applicants personify this mission statement by displaying the following characteristics: [list] [*]A belief that EQ and people are just as important as IQ and profits – While demonstrating impact is critical, Stanford GSB seeks those who deliver it through collaboration with and/or for the benefit of others.[/*] [*]Strong self-awareness – The essay prompt says it all, Stanford GSB cares what matters to you and how it has influenced your choices in life. Scratching the surface of self-awareness is not enough; beyond articulating your emotions in a given situation, they want to see that you can connect situations to your core values and underlying motivations.[/*] [*]A willingness to take risks – Change is impossible without some level of risk and change is the crux of the GSB’s mission. They want to see that you don’t let fear stand in the way of progress – for yourself and for others.[/*] [/list] Stanford MBA Essay Tips – How Do I Uncover ‘What Matters Most to Me’? Attempting to crystallize what matters most to you is incredibly intimidating! If you’re digging deep enough, figuring this out is not something that can be done in a day or even a week. That’s why starting early is critical. To begin, we love suggesting that clients read two great books, [url=https://www.amazon.com/True-North-Authentically-Workplace-Emerging/dp/1119886104/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=616990820093&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9021485&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=5100686707985483344&hvtargid=kwd-4813798226&hydadcr=24632_13611814&keywords=bill+george+true+north&qid=1683902896&sr=8-1]True North[/url] by Bill George and [url=https://www.amazon.com/What-Youre-Really-Meant-Potential/dp/1422189902/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=what+you%27re+really+meant+to+do+by+robert+kaplan&qid=1683902930&sprefix=what+you%27re+re%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-1]What You’re Really Meant to Do[/url] by Robert Kaplan. Give thought to where you dream of taking your career (and life more broadly) and why. From there, it can be helpful to think back to each major decision you’ve made in your life and reflect on why you made the choice you did. Are there any commonalities? Lastly, think about influential people or events in your life stretching back to childhood. What or who has made you who you are and why? Once you’ve done all this reflection (and written it down!), look for points of intersection and interrelation. Sometimes another set of eyes from a trusted friend or family member can be helpful here. More times than not, there is a common passion, motivation, value, or trait that connects what you’ve done in the past and what you hope to do in the future. This common thread can serve as your overarching theme and answer to ‘what matters most to you’. Stanford MBA Essay Tips – Turning Your Theme into a Strong Essay A The essay itself should prove that this ‘thing’ is truly what matters most to you by laying out 2-3 stories and describing how they connect back to it. While the stories are typically told in chronological order, the essay should not read as your memoir. Be thoughtful and strategic, choosing only your most powerful examples. Many times, successful essays begin with what we refer to as a ‘superhero origin story’. By this we mean the time in your life or experience that first brought your ‘thing’ (i.e., what matters most to you) into play for you. It is the defining moment that triggered a shift in your thinking or approach in a way that has stuck with you from then on out, influencing who you’ve become and who you hope to be in the future. The balance of the essay should focus on one or two other situations from your life since the ‘superhero origin’ where the thing that matters most to you influenced your actions or choices. One of these (or a third topical area if you have space) can be devoted to your vision of the future. You have space to further spell out your plans in Essay B, but you should lay out, in broad strokes, how your ‘thing’ influences where you want to take your life in Essay A. Once you have the backbone of your essay in place, our advice is to go back and add stylistic nuances that demonstrate you possess the characteristics the GSB seeks. Describe interpersonal dynamics within each story and how you successfully navigated them. Layer in emotion and insights about yourself that demonstrate self-awareness. Importantly, write so that the adcom feels your authentic passion for the topic you have chosen to discuss. If this sounds difficult, that’s because it is. Writing a strong Stanford essay takes upfront investment in introspection and time to iterate (and then iterate again). It’s not uncommon for us to work through 10-20 drafts of this essay with clients because, even with professional help, that’s how long it takes to make it perfect. Stanford MBA Essay Tips – Essay B is Straightforward but Not ‘Easy’ Once you’ve outlined generally where you want to take your life in Essay A, Essay B is your opportunity to get tactical. Share your specific post-MBA goals and describe why an MBA and the GSB’s program in particular are necessary to help you achieve them. The keys here are specificity and personalization. If someone could blindly read your essay and think it applies to another MBA program, you are not being specific enough. If they could read it and think the ‘why Stanford’ you describe could help someone achieve different goals than those you are targeting, you are not personalizing your reasons sufficiently. Writing a successful Essay B requires more than just perusing the GSB’s website for classes and its own description of why the program is unique. Talk to alums and current students, attend webinars, stroll campus if you can, and, critically, reflect on the specific skillsets (hard or soft) you need to build to achieve your most aspirational goals. Overwhelmed? We get it – the Stanford GSB application is perhaps the most challenging MBA application out there. If you need assistance, feel free to reach out to [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/request-consultation/]request a free consultation[/url]. The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/05/12/stanford-mba-essay/]Stanford MBA Essay Tips[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
18 May 2023, 14:04
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: The GMAT Focus Edition and What it Means for Your MBA Applications |
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[img]https://vantagepointmba.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Untitled-design-3-1024x536.png[/img] GMAC’s announcement of the updated version of the GMAT called the GMAT Focus Edition has generated quite a bit of excitement within the business school community. But since the test hasn’t been launched yet, MBA hopefuls are left wondering what to expect. What will this new version of the GMAT be like and what will it mean for your MBA applications? Read on to find out and learn other essential things every GMAT-taker needs to know about the GMAT Focus Edition. Why was there a need to update the GMAT? There has been a material increase in the number of people who apply to business school with a GRE score in recent years. As such, GMAC looked at ways to make the GMAT more user-friendly for test takers while also ensuring it was testing the most relevant skills needed to succeed in the MBA classroom (i.e., what the adcom folks care about). The GMAT Focus Edition is designed to provide a more personalized and adaptive assessment of the skills required to succeed in the modern business world. The new test assesses higher-order critical reasoning skills and data literacy while featuring an adaptive testing algorithm that adjusts the difficulty of the questions based on each test-taker’s performance. Additionally, it is made to provide test-takers with more personalized feedback which is helpful in allowing takers to better understand their performance and areas for improvement. According to [url=https://www.gmac.com/news-center/gmac-press-releases/gmat-focus-edition-the-next-evolution]Ashish Bhardwaj[/url], senior vice president and head of market development at GMAC, “These new and improved features of GMAT Focus Edition are providing greater confidence to test takers in their decision to pursue business education.” What’s the difference between the legacy GMAT and the GMAT Focus Edition? The major difference between the old and new GMAT is the level of personalization of the test. For sure, both tests are challenging but the older version doesn’t provide personalized feedback to test-takers, unlike the new version. Aside from this, other key differences include the following: Focus on higher-order critical reasoning skills and data literacy The GMAT Focus Edition places a greater emphasis on higher-order critical reasoning skills and data literacy – skills that are considered to be more relevant and applicable in the business environment of tomorrow. Shorter exam length The new GMAT is expected to be shorter in length than the current GMAT with an estimated testing time of two hours – one hour shorter than the current version. Fewer question types Feature fewer question types than the existing GMAT, the updated version will focus on integrated reasoning, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. Different scoring scale The GMAT Focus Edition will likely have a similar scoring scale to the existing GMAT, but it’s possible that the scoring algorithm may be different because of the greater emphasis on critical reasoning and data literacy skills. When will the GMAT Focus Edition start? According to the [url=https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-focus-edition]GMAT website[/url], the official preparation materials for the GMAT Focus Edition are expected to be available on June 6, 2023. This includes study materials, practice exams, and other resources that takers can use to prepare for the exam. By August 29, 2023, test takers will be able to register for the exam through the official GMAT website or through authorized test centers; they can begin taking it in Q4 2023. How will the update affect upcoming application cycles? Given the timing of the roll out, the GMAT Focus Edition will not be available to Round 1 applicants in the upcoming cycle and very few Round 2 applicants will have taken it. Since most applicants apply in either Round 1 or Round 2 (we don’t recommend applying Round 3 in the vast majority of cases), it really won’t have an impact until the 2024-25 application cycle. At this point, as more test-takers begin to take the new test, it’s likely that business schools will begin to recognize and acknowledge the differences in the scores of applicants. The legacy GMAT will be phased out in early 2024, but, as scores are good for 5 years, there will be a mix of tet types in the next several application cycles. We expect that business schools will take the differences into account when evaluating applicants and may adjust their admissions criteria accordingly. Applicants who perform well on the GMAT Focus Edition may be more competitive in the admissions process. Meanwhile, those who struggle with the new exam may find it more difficult to stand out in a highly competitive applicant pool. Despite this, it’s essential to remember that business schools also consider other factors in their admissions process, such as work experience, academic performance, and extracurricular activities. A student’s [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2022/05/19/what-is-a-good-gmat-score/]GMAT Focus Edition score[/url] won’t be the only basis for assessment, but a strong score can help applicants stand out from the crowd and increase their chances of admission. In Summary… The new GMAT is an exciting development for test-takers and business schools alike. With its personalized approach and adaptive format, the GMAT Focus Edition has the potential to help test-takers improve their performance and achieve their goals of attending top business schools around the world. If preparing for the GRE, GMAT or GMAT Focus Edition is in your plans, here are a few other articles you may find interesting: [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2022/02/02/gmat-and-gre-myths-debunked/]GMAT and GRE Myths Debunked – Vantage Point MBA[/url] [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/02/16/what-gmat-do-i-need-for-harvard/]What GMAT Score Do I Need for Harvard | Vantage Point MBA[/url] Frequently Asked Questions [b]What is the scoring system for the GMAT Focus Edition?[/b] The GMAT Focus Edition will use the same scoring system as the current GMAT, with a total score ranging from 200 to 800, and separate scores for each section of the test. [b]How can I prepare for the GMAT Focus Edition?[/b] The best way to prepare for the GMAT Focus Edition is to familiarize yourself with the skills and content areas that the test will focus on. Develop a personalized study plan that takes into account your strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. This may involve self-study, a guided course, private tutoring or a combination of these. [b]What score should I aim for?[/b] Keep tabs on the class profiles published by your target programs. Always aim to be in this range if you can and, if not, ensure that other components of your application exceed the adcom’s expectations. The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/05/18/gmat-focus-edition/]The GMAT Focus Edition and What it Means for Your MBA Applications[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
25 May 2023, 09:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: Virtual MBA Admissions Events – A Comprehensive List by School |
 Expressing why a specific MBA program is a fit for your career goals, personality, and more is crucial for a compelling application. But you can’t make your case solely by relying on a school’s website. You need deeper insights and information. A good way to further your research is to attend virtual MBA admissions events for each of your target programs. These offer a convenient and accessible way to gather insights, engage with the community, and make informed decisions about different schools. In this article, we’ve shared a comprehensive list of virtual MBA admissions events for the top MBA programs as well as several MBA fairs where you can meet multiple schools at once. Note that some programs do not have any upcoming virtual events scheduled at this time and, as such, are not included below; make sure to check your target programs’ websites frequently for newly added sessions. Also, it is always great if you can make an in-person visit to the campuses of your top choice programs. There simply is no replacement for sitting in a live classroom, feeling the ‘vibe’ of the community, and strolling around the building where you might spend two very transformational years. That said, here is a list of upcoming virtual MBA admissions events to get your school research started (click the links to jump directly to each school): Harvard Business School Stanford Graduate School of Business Chicago Booth Kellogg School of Management Wharton MIT Sloan Michigan Ross Yale School of Management NYU Stern Berkeley Haas UVA Darden Emory Goizueta UT Austin McCombs MBA Fairs June 13, 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT: A member of the MBA Admissions Office will be hosting this online information session, providing a concise presentation on the HBS MBA experience, admissions process, and available financial aid opportunities. The session will also focus on answering attendees’ questions.[/*] [*]Q&A with Current HBS Students, June 6, 2023, 7:00 – 7:45 PM EDT: applicants can directly hear from current HBS students as they share their personal MBA journeys. Students will provide valuable insights into their diverse backgrounds, share their unique experiences, and engage in live Q&A to address queries.[/*] [*]2+2 Program and Admissions Virtual Information Session: The 2+2 MBA program offered by Harvard Business School (HBS) is for college students who are in their final year of study and have not yet gained full-time work experience. The program allows students to secure their spot in the HBS MBA program, deferring enrollment for two years while they gain professional experience.[/*] [/list]
June 1, 2023, 12:00 – 12:55 PM PDT [*]June 6, 2023, 12:00 – 12:55 PM PDT [*]June 13, 2023, 4:00 – 4:55 PM PDT[/list] [*]Online Chat with a Student, June 1, 2023, 12:00 – 12:45 PM PDT: Prospects can gain insights into the MBA Program directly from a student perspective. The informal online chat facilitated by a student ambassador is where applicants will have the chance to connect in a small virtual group and freely ask questions about the GSB experience.[/list] June 27, 2023, 5:00 PM CDT: admissions staff will provide an initial introduction to Booth’s program and the essential values of The Chicago Approach  . This virtual MBA admissions event includes small breakout groups where attendees can ask questions about Booth’s community, academic and career offerings, as well as student life.[/list] June 21, 2023, 12:00 – 1:00 PM CDT: admissions officers will discuss the Kellogg MBA program, its curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and the application process. There will also be a Q&A session where attendees can ask questions about the program and the admissions process. [*]Admissions Officer Office Hours, June 8, 2023, 12:00 – 12:45 PM CDT: Join a Kellogg admissions officer for an informal Q&A about our application and selection process, our diverse portfolio of programs, and more. Registrants can stay for the entire session or leave after their question has been answered. [*]MMM Program Event: June 21, 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM CDT: The MMM Program at Kellogg is a dual-degree program that combines a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the Kellogg School of Management with a Master of Engineering Management (MEM) degree from the McCormick School of Engineering at Northwestern University. [*]MBAi Program Event, June 13, 2023, 9:30 – 10:30 AM CDT The MBAi program is a dual-degree program that combines a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the Kellogg School of Management with a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) degree from Northwestern University’s McCormick School of Engineering. [*]One-Year MBA Program Event, June 28, 2023, 1:00 – 1:45 PM CDT: The one-year MBA program at Kellogg is an accelerated MBA program that allows students to earn their MBA degree in just one year instead of the traditional two-year program. The program is for students who have already earned a business-related undergraduate degree or have work experience in a related field.[/list] June 13, 2023, 09:00 – 10:00 AM EDT [*]June 29, 2023, 04:00 – 05:00 PM EDT [*]July 14, 2023, 03:00 – 04:00 PM EDT [*]July 26, 2023, 01:00 – 02:00 PM EDT[/list] [*]JD/MBA Virtual Info Session, June 15, 2023, 3:00 – 4:00 PM EDT: The Carey JD/MBA Program is a dual-degree program offered by the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School. It was made for students who want to pursue careers at the intersection of law and business.[/list] June 7, 2023, 6:30 – 7:30 PM EDT: Visit virtually MIT Sloan’s campus and learn more about the two-year MBA program. This livestream of an in-person event will include a moderated conversation with a student panel and brief admissions overview.[/list] May 17, 2023, 9:00 – 10:00 AM EDT [*]July 12, 2023, 12:00 – 1:00 PM EDT [*]July 19, 2023, 12:00 – 1:00 PM EDT[/list] [*]Check-In With Our Interning MBA Students, July 18, 2023, 7:00 – 8:00 PM EDT: During this session, prospects can gather valuable insights from students representing diverse career interests, locations, and backgrounds. It’s a great chance to gain firsthand perspectives and learn from their unique experiences during their internship [*]Full-Time MBA Admissions Chat- Applying through the Consortium, July 25, 2023, 12:00 – 1:00 PM EDT: The mission of the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management is to foster diversity and inclusion in global business education and leadership. Its primary goal is to address the substantial underrepresentation of African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans in these fields.[/list] June 1 2023, 12:00 – 12:45 PM EDT [*]June 6 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT [*]June 15 2023, 12:00 – 12:45 PM EDT [*]June 20 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT [*]June 22 2023, 12:00 – 12:45 PM EDT [*]June 27 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT [*]June 29 2023, 12:00 – 12:45 PM EDT[/list] [*]Office Hours with Bruce DelMonico, Jun 13 2023, 9:00 – 10:00 Am EDT: Bruce DelMonico, Assistant Dean for Admissions, will be in this session to address any inquiries applicants may have regarding admissions, the Yale SOM MBA experience, and life in New Haven.[/list] June 14, 2023, 3:00 – 4:00 PM EDT [*]June 21, 2023, 3:00 – 4:00 PM EDT [*]June 29, 2023, 12:00 – 1:00 PM EDT [*]July 12, 2023, 12:00 – 1:00 PM EDT [*]July 24, 2023, 12:00 – 1:00 PM EDT[/list] [/list] June 01, 2023, 09:00 – 09:30 AM PST: Be prepared for the upcoming 2023-2024 Full-time MBA application opening by joining the admissions team for an informative session. Applicants will be guided through the application process and provided insights into the exciting updates for this year, including essay questions and deadlines. [*]Application Launch Series: Application Advice from Students, June 08, 2023, 04:00 – 04:45 PM PST: First-year MBA students will be sharing their firsthand experiences and providing expert guidance on crafting a stellar Haas application. These students have successfully navigated the application process in the past year.[/list] June 12, 2023, 2:30 – 3:00 PM ET: Chats are intimate gatherings for individuals considering Darden as their academic destination. Participants can engage in conversation with an Admissions representative or a member of the Darden community to gain insights into the application process, experience the distinctive case method of learning, and evaluate whether Darden is the ideal match for their aspirations.[/list] June 6, 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT [*]June 13, 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT [*]July 20, 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT [*]June 27, 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT [*]July 11, 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT [*]July 18, 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT [*]July 25, 2023, 9:00 – 9:45 AM EDT[/list] [*]MBA Information Session: Explore the Full-Time Two-Year and One-Year MBA programs in detail, discover the application requirements, and engage with an Admission Director who will provide comprehensive answers to inquiries.
June 1, 2023, 12:00 – 1:00 PM CT: Participate in a virtual information session hosted by MBA Admissions to gain insights into the Full-Time MBA program at Texas McCombs.[/list] June 15 – June 17, 2023: Designed to provide valuable insights and guidance to individuals interested in pursuing an MBA degree, the forum offers a virtual platform for attendees to interact with admissions representatives from top business schools, gain knowledge about the MBA application process, learn about various programs and their offerings, and receive advice on preparing a competitive application. [*]GMAT Club MBA Spotlight, June 13-14, 2023: GMAT Club presents MBA Spotlight, an exclusive event that aims to connect MBA applicants with the world’s top business schools, including Stern, offering valuable insights into MBA programs and the admissions process.[/list] Attending virtual MBA admissions events is important as it allows prospective applicants to gain comprehensive insights into the program’s offerings, culture, and values. These sessions provide an opportunity to interact with admissions staff, faculty members, and current students, enabling a deeper understanding of the curriculum, career opportunities, and the overall fit with their goals. By actively participating in these sessions, applicants can make more informed decisions, tailor their applications, and demonstrate their genuine interest, ultimately strengthening their candidacy and bettering their chances of admission. If you’re not sure which event to attend first, don’t worry! We got you. Deciding which event to attend, and thinking about what questions to ask can be overwhelming. If you need assistance, feel free to reach out to request a free consultation. The post Virtual MBA Admissions Events – A Comprehensive List by School appeared first on Vantage Point MBA. |
01 Jun 2023, 11:00
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: When Do MBA Applications Open? A General Timeline to Help You Plan |
 When it comes to plotting out your MBA applications, knowing when to start and what to expect can feel like trying to solve a puzzle without the right pieces. You may be wondering, when do MBA applications open? Is there anything you should be doing now before applications are available? When is the optimal time to start working on your application materials? A clear MBA application timeline is critical to navigating the process smoothly and avoiding last minute stress. In this article, we provide you with a handy roadmap, ensuring you know exactly when to begin researching programs, preparing your application materials, and submitting them. So, When Do MBA Applications Open? Let’s Start There The top MBA programs typically start accepting applications for the upcoming cycle in June or July. Round 1 deadlines fall in September or October and Round 2 deadlines usually occur in January. That said, it’s a good idea to begin your preparations in the spring or early summer, even before MBA applications officially open. You can and should tackle many things now – taking the GMAT/GRE exams, researching different schools, talking to alumni and current students for insights, creating a strong MBA resume, and clarifying your post-MBA career goals. Doing so is like giving yourself a head start in a race. You’ll have more time to prepare and make sure your application is the best it can be. Next, Consider Which Application Round You Are Targeting Another important consideration is which application round you are targeting for your applications (or maybe you will apply to a few programs in Round 1 and others in Round 2). Knowing your end point will help you work backwards to an appropriate MBA application timeline. As we sit here in early June, we expect clients targeting Round 1 applications to be able to answer ‘yes’ to many of the following questions:
As you consider these questions, you’ll gain clarity about the timing that works best for your MBA journey. If your answer is ‘no’ to almost all of the questions, it might be worth delaying your application until Round 2 or even until next year (note that we don’t typically recommend submitting applications in Round 3). Need help planning your approach? click here to connect A General Round 1 MBA Application Timeline If Round 1 applications make sense for you, here is a general timeline to keep in mind:  Once applications open in June/July, you ideally want to hit the ground running with the following:
A General Round 2 Application Timeline The Round 2 timeline can simply track a few months behind that shown in the graphic above. Below is some additional detail context on what goes into the key tasks and milestones: September – October (or before!):
Early November:
Mid-November – Mid-December:
Mid-Late December:
Early January:
In Summary… We hope this article helped you move from general questions like, ‘when do MBA applications open?’ to a more nuanced thought process about how your individual applications will come together. We know that the MBA application journey can be complicated and overwhelming (we’ve been there as MBAs ourselves!), but with determination and proper planning you’ll put your best foot forward and increase your chances of success. Interested in a personalized action plan and hands-on coaching? Click here to schedule a free 30-minute consultation! The post When Do MBA Applications Open? A General Timeline to Help You Plan appeared first on Vantage Point MBA. |
08 Jun 2023, 13:00
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: MBA Letter of Recommendation Questions and a HBS Letter of Recommendation Sample |
 Letters of recommendation play a vital role in MBA applications. These letters, crafted by trusted individuals who have witnessed the applicant’s journey, validate what applicants assert about themselves and provide additional context about their accomplishments, character, and potential. When we first speak with clients about this component of the application, they are often unclear what the MBA letter of recommendation questions are exactly and what a strong letter of recommendation looks like. So that’s what we’re covering today. In this article, we share the most common MBA letter of recommendation questions, provide links to the specific letter of recommendation requirements for some of the top MBA programs, and offer a successful sample letter of recommendation for HBS. Common MBA Letter of Recommendation Questions Recommendations are submitted via each school’s online application system. The applicant provides the recommender’s name and contact information to each school, and the school sends the recommender an email explaining the process with a link to the recommendation form. Each school requires that recommenders answer their specific questions. That said, most of the questions are similar between schools so recommenders can use similar content across recommendations. The questions and suggestions that follow are a general guide to the types of things schools look for recommenders to cover. It is crucial, however, to thoroughly review the specific instructions provided by each program. Following the schools’ specific requirements ensures that the recommendation aligns with their evaluation criteria and provides the most relevant and impactful insights into your candidacy. Getting to Know the Recommender Most recommendation letter forms begin by gathering information about the recommender. The recommender can expect questions like:
Exploring the Applicant’s Qualities Next, schools typically look for recommenders to assess the applicant’s strengths, skills, and accomplishments. Here are some questions the recommender may encounter:
Assessing Interpersonal Skills Teamwork and collaboration are two interpersonal skills MBA programs value the most. As such, recommenders should be prepared to answer questions that touch on the applicant’s ability to work effectively with others:
Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving Abilities Given the rigor of MBA coursework, recommendation letters frequently inquire about the applicant’s analytical and problem-solving prowess:
Communication Skills Effective communication is essential for success in business (and business school). And so, recommendation letters often inquire about the applicant’s communication abilities:
Assessing Character and Ethics Business schools highly value integrity and ethical conduct. The recommender might be asked to evaluate the applicant’s character:
Numerical Scoring Sections In some cases, recommendation forms include ancillary sections where recommenders are asked to rate the applicant numerically. These sections may focus on attributes like leadership, teamwork, or problem-solving skills. Note that any response with all perfect scores will not be considered. There should be a good mix of areas for development and strengths. If the candidate was perfect, then there would be no need for an MBA, so recommenders should feel free to be honest and reflective. Constructive Feedback Many MBA letter of recommendation questions include one that asks recommenders to share a piece of constructive feedback they’ve provided to the applicant as well as the applicant’s response to that feedback. This can be something that the applicant absorbed and has improved upon or a skill set that they still need to develop. In the case of the latter, the constructive feedback will often tie to why the applicant is pursuing an MBA. The recommender should be honest but gentle. They should avoid strengths disguised as weaknesses – e.g., overachiever – and also ensure that the opportunity area is truly something that can be addressed in business school. Often cited weaknesses include decision making under pressure, confidence, management skills (e.g., for larger teams, micromanagement, etc.), ability to leverage quant skills into strategy development, etc. Skills like time management, ability to prioritize, ability to maintain and develop relationships with team members, and some level of strong communication skills should already be developed prior to applying. Word Limits and Formatting Most MBA programs impose word limits on recommendation letters to ensure consistency and fairness. It’s crucial to adhere to these limits to meet the program’s requirements. Typically, the limit ranges from 500 to 1,000 words. The best letters of recommendation include multiple and specific examples of the recommender’s experiences working with the candidate, so the more detailed, the better within the confines of the school’s requirements. Need help planning your approach? click here to connect School Specific MBA Letter of Recommendation Questions for Top MBA Programs 2023-2024 Although the questions we listed offer a general guide, it is still necessary to check each school’s unique set of requirements and direction about what should be included in MBA recommendation letters. To make your life easier, here are links to the MBA letter of recommendation questions for the top 20 MBA programs:
Closing Thoughts and Then a Strong Example We hope this article provided helpful context as to the typical MBA letter of recommendation questions. Armed with this information, you’ll be able to choose the best people to write your recommendations with passion (here is some additional guidance on choosing and coaching your recommenders) and make your MBA applications the strongest they can possibly be. If you have more questions about MBA letters of recommendation or would like tailored advice on your MBA application journey, request your free consultation today. Sample Letter of Recommendation for Harvard Business School To demonstrate what a strong letter of recommendation looks like, below we’ve shared a privatized version of a past client’s HBS recommendation. You’ll see that the questions were answered completely, concisely and with plenty of detailed examples. How does the candidate’s performance, potential, background, or personal qualities compare to those of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles? Please provide specific examples. (300 words) Among a class of highly accomplished and intelligent recent college graduates from top tier schools, Candidate has truly stood out. As someone who has observed Candidate’s work over his entire tenure at Our Firm and has been the Manager on his team for the last seven months, I can confidently say that Candidate exhibits extraordinary intellectual curiosity, top notch analytical skills, and professional maturity beyond his years. These characteristics that enable him, time and time again, to deliver thoughtful, creative, and well-supported solutions for his clients. For example, on a recent engagement Candidate directly advised senior executives at a Fortune 500 company for several months on how they could innovate their business model by adopting successful practices in adjacent industries – a role rarely given to others of his tenure. In this way, not only does Candidate consistently perform incredibly rigorous and complicated quantitative analysis, but he also commits himself to developing a nuanced understanding of his clients’ needs and the complex environments in which they operate. Not content to simply answer the questions laid out in front of him (as many others at his level are), Candidate is dedicated to challenging both himself and his teammates to understand better, think harder, and be more creative in delivering actionable solutions for clients. As a result of his accomplishments and embracing roles beyond the scope of most Associates, Candidate has received an “Outstanding” rating – the highest – in his last several consensus reviews and earned an early promotion – an uncommon occurrence that puts him on an accelerated career development path. Candidate is always in high demand by Managers and Managing Directors for new projects when they are given the choice over whom to staff on their cases. Describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the applicant. Please detail the circumstances and the applicant’s response. (250 words) I have worked with dozens of Associates in my time at Our Firm and Candidate rises to the top in terms of his quantitative and analytical skills. That is why I specifically asked to have Candidate on my project and assigned him the role of creating a first-ever performance analysis for a $25 billion client. After our first week, Candidate created output that the newly appointed CEO commented was “The best he’s ever seen.” This was a big boost for our team and established early credibility as we worked alongside competing consulting firms vying to establish the same quality of reporting insight. I then gave him increased responsibility to manage larger bodies of work that required him to not only complete the analysis but also lead sessions with executives. In the first series of interactions, it was clear that Candidate was so versed in the underlying analyses, he was having some difficulty conveying the message in a way that highlighted the key insights in a digestible way. Sensing some of the sessions were off to a rocky start, Candidate approached me for advice . As I shared my feedback, Candidate actively listened and took notes. In the next several sessions, I was really impressed with how quickly Candidate adapted . He took time to establish context, interjected more thoughtfully, and listened more. The discussions were more conversational, Candidate was more empathetic, and he achieved genuine buy-in during an important phase of our project. (Optional) Is there anything else you would like us to know? On a personal level, Candidate is a wonderful, unique, talented, and caring person. He is a prize to have on your team and someone I consider myself lucky to have had the opportunity to work with. There is no doubt in my mind that Candidate would make an incredible contribution to the HBS Class of 20XX, and that we can all expect great things from him in the future. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any further questions about Candidate. The post MBA Letter of Recommendation Questions and a HBS Letter of Recommendation Sample appeared first on Vantage Point MBA. |
16 Jun 2023, 04:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: Columbia Business School – What’s New (a Lot!) and How to Wow the Adcom with Your Essays |
 Several key things have changed this year when it comes to the Columbia Business School application. First, they’ve done away with rolling admissions for their fall cohort as well as the option to apply early decision. There will now be rounds that mirror most peer schools. Having seen clients stress about when to hit submit in a rolling admissions world and agonize over whether to apply early, we see this change as a positive. Second, they’ve tweaked two of their essay questions. With essay two, they’ve increased their focus on diversity and inclusion, seeking an example of how applicants have fostered these in the past. In essay three (which was essay two last year), ‘fit’ with Columbia Business School remains the hot topic but the prompt is slightly narrower, as is the word count with 50 fewer words to make your case. The first essay prompt (and accompanying short answer question) remains unchanged and critically important to demonstrate robust thought about your future career plans and how an MBA fits into them. If you’re applying to Columbia Business School, read on for some tactical details about the process as well as guidance on how to approach the essay prompts. Columbia Business School Deadlines (for Fall 2024 entry) Round 1: September 13, 2023 Round 2: January 5, 2024 Round 3: April 3, 2024 Columbia Business School Essay Questions Short Answer Question: What is your immediate post-MBA professional goal? (50 characters maximum) Essay 1: Through your resume and recommendation, we have a clear sense of your professional path to date. What are your career goals over the next three to five years and what is your long-term dream job? (500 words) Essay 2: The Phillips Pathway for Inclusive Leadership (PPIL) is a co-curricular program designed to provide students with the skills and strategies needed to develop as inclusive leaders. Through various resources and programming, the goal is for students to explore and reflect during their educational journey on the following five inclusive leadership skills: Mitigating Bias and Prejudice; Managing Intercultural Dialogue; Addressing Systemic Inequity; Understanding Identity and Perspective Taking; and Creating an Inclusive Environment. Describe a time or situation when you had the need to utilize one of more of these five skills, and tell us the actions you took and the outcome. (250 words) Essay 3: We believe Columbia Business School is a special place. CBS proudly fosters a collaborative learning environment through curricular experiences like our clusters and learning teams, an extremely active co-curricular and student life environment, and career mentorship opportunities like our Executives-in-Residence program. Why do you feel Columbia Business School is a good fit for you academically, culturally, and professionally? Please be specific. (250 words) Optional Essay: If you wish to provide further information or additional context around your application to the Admissions Committee, please upload a brief explanation of any areas of concern in your academic record or personal history. This does not need to be a formal essay. You may submit bullet points. (Maximum 500 Words) Note for Reapplicants Applying in Successive Years: Reapplicants are not required to submit additional essays. Only the following reapplicant essay is required: How have you enhanced your candidacy since your previous application? Please detail your progress since you last applied and reiterate how you plan to achieve your immediate and long-term post-MBA professional goals. (Maximum 500 words). Columbia Business School Essay Advice You can tell a lot about a school from the essay questions they ask applicants to answer. Columbia’s essay questions demonstrate that it seeks students who have defined, well researched career goals, hence the robust word count allotted to essay one and pointed short answer question. CBS also places heavy emphasis on diversity – not just in background but also in thought – as well as collaboration and developing leaders who embrace these core values. Essays 2 and 3 look for you to demonstrate how your values and goals align with CBS’ offerings and what unique perspective you bring to the table. Keep these nuances in mind as you craft your answers. Need help planning your approach? click here to connect The ‘Why’ is as Important as the ‘What’ in Essay One While the first essay prompt indicates that Columbia isn’t looking for a restatement of your resume, some insight into the past makes for a more powerful and authentic response. In addition to a clear and specific explanation of your goals, the most important thing to communicate is the ‘why’ behind them. And the ‘why’ is often rooted in your past experiences. The key is to be targeted about which of your past experiences you include. Start by thinking about the defining elements of the career you will pursue post-MBA. For instance, perhaps your dream is to launch a new beauty brand. The defining elements of this path could be described as (1) entrepreneurship and (2) consumer focused. Share things from your past that explain why you have a passion for entrepreneurship and also why beauty / consumer goods will be your focus as opposed to another product or service. Perhaps you launched a side business in college and loved the thrill of building something from scratch. And maybe your personal experience has demonstrated a gap in the current beauty marketplace that you feel compelled to rectify. Tell these stories to help the reader feel your passion and the authenticity underlying your goals. Once you’ve provided sufficient context, the remainder of the essay should be forward-looking, painting a clear picture of what you hope to accomplish and how you seek to grow professionally both in the near-term and long-term. This may require some research into your desired career path but does not need to be tied to one specific role or job. Instead, remain anchored in how you will continue to define success. Your long-term dream job should be a natural progression on that success path but don’t get too hung up on what’s “realistic”. This is where you can – and should – dream big about your future. Don’t Be Intimidated by Essay Two – ‘Small’ Stories Can Make for Powerful Essays Essay two is a question that CBS used to ask but replaced with another prompt in the last several years. As a first step, ground yourself in the PPIL curriculum. Then, with that context as well as the five inclusive leadership skills in mind, brainstorm a number of stories from your past that may fit. Don’t just stop at the first story that comes to mind – we find that this can cause people to overlook even stronger examples. Clients are often intimidated by this type of question, concerned that the impact they’ve had in past situations is not ‘big’ enough. On the contrary, sometimes examples that were small in scale but had a significant impact on just one person or a few people – particularly if that impact was squarely driven by the applicant – can make for some of the most powerful essays. In addition to identifying the best example in your arsenal, the key to a successful essay is to briefly cover off on the situation (250 words is short!) – this may even mean leaving out some of the story and keying in on only details that are relevant to the diversity angle. After setting the stage, spend the greatest portion of the word count on your actions. Describe them in a way and level of detail that makes the reader feel like they were there and, of course, demonstrate how you were an inclusive leader. Don’t forget to end with the result – how your actions benefited others on your team, in your organization, society more broadly, etc. Remember that ‘Fit’ is a Two-Way Street in Essay Three Answering this question well requires communicating that you understand the unique perspective you bring to the table – both the skills you have and also those you lack – and have done your research to understand how they benefit AND benefit from CBS’ program. Further, they want to understand this fit across three dimensions – academic, cultural, and professional. That’s a lot of ground to cover, so make sure each point you choose to make is powerful and cut to the chase with each. To stand out in a sea of “why CBS” essays, it’s more critical than ever to draw specific and personal connections between what you want and need to get out of your MBA and what CBS offers. For example, go beyond restating a class description and show how the knowledge you will gain will complement your current set of experiences. If you have experience or relationships within a specific industry, this could be a great place to show how those would benefit your classmates as well. In many cases, ‘cultural fit’ is the hardest to write about since you haven’t lived the student experience. This is where a campus visit, or at a minimum, 1:1 conversations with current students / recent alums come in handy. From hearing their experiences, you’ll notice what is most appealing or exciting to you. Don’t overcomplicate this one – genuine insights are always the best. Help the reader picture you as a member of the CBS community. Interested in personalized, 1:1 coaching for your Columbia Business School application (and others)? Reach out to request an initial consultation. The post Columbia Business School – What’s New (a Lot!) and How to Wow the Adcom with Your Essays appeared first on Vantage Point MBA. |
22 Jun 2023, 13:00
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: MBA Student Ambassadors: The Secret Resource for MBA Networking |
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[img]https://vantagepointmba.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Untitled-design-8-1024x536.png[/img] Gathering as much information as possible about your target MBA programs is an essential step to submitting the strongest applications possible and ultimately deciding where to attend. While researching online and attending information sessions are valuable, nothing beats getting insights directly from an insider. This is where MBA student ambassadors come into play. MBA student ambassadors can provide invaluable information about the nuanced aspects of an MBA program and answer questions specific to your goals (and, if they can’t do the latter, they can typically connect you with someone who can). MBA student ambassadors take the spotlight in our article today as we explore why networking with them is helpful. What is an MBA Student Ambassador? MBA student ambassadors are current students or alums chosen by a business school to represent it to prospective students, applicants, and visitors. These ambassadors play an important role in showcasing the school’s culture, values, and what it can offer in terms of education. MBA student ambassadors are typically selected based on their academic achievements, leadership skills, and enthusiasm for their educational experience. Schools also seek a diversity in backgrounds and perspectives to mirror their applicant pool. MBA student ambassadors are well-versed in the program, curriculum, and extracurricular activities offered by their institution. And they possess in-depth knowledge of the student experience, campus life, and resources available to students. Essentially, ambassadors serve as a bridge between the institution and potential students, providing a friendly and relatable point of contact for inquiries and networking opportunities. Their primary responsibility is to engage with prospective students and answer any questions they may have about the school, including academics, career services, student clubs, and more. Is Networking with MBA Student Ambassadors a ‘Must Do’? The straight answer is no, it’s not absolutely necessary to speak with MBA student ambassadors. If you have people in your network who attend your target programs (or have recently graduated), speaking with them can provide many of the same benefits as MBA student ambassadors. That said, many applicants – particularly those from non-traditional or diverse backgrounds – do not have current students or alums in their network so MBA student ambassador programs help level the playing field. Why You Should Consider Connecting with MBA Student Ambassadors Here are a few reasons why networking with MBA student ambassadors is beneficial: Authentic Perspectives Student ambassadors generally provide candid information about their experiences which will give you a real sense of what to expect. They can share both the highlights and challenges of the program, giving you a holistic view. That said, they have been handpicked by their program so it’s unlikely you’ll get someone who didn’t have a great experience – however, we find that most students/alums are very positive on their school, so this limitation often applies to your personal network as well. Insider Knowledge MBA student ambassadors have intimate knowledge of the curriculum, courses, faculty, and extracurricular activities. They can shed light on specific areas of interest or help you understand the program’s unique features. As mentioned earlier, if you are pursuing a less common focus area with which your ambassador is unfamiliar, it is likely they can connect you with a similarly minded peer. Cultural Fit Each business school has its own distinct culture. By connecting with student ambassadors, you can assess whether the program’s values, environment, and community align with your personal and professional aspirations. You can ask direct questions about what student life is like – how social it is, whether students are competitive with one another, the logistics of where to live, just to name a few. Career Resources Student ambassadors can offer insights into the school’s career services and opportunities. They can provide information on internships, networking events, alumni connections, and recruitment processes, helping you gauge the program’s effectiveness in enabling students’ career goals. Demonstrating Interest We would be remiss not to mention that schools (some more so than others) like to see that you’ve made the effort to learn about their program. They often have application questions around how you’ve engaged with their school before applying. Beyond ‘checking the box’, insider insights can be great material for your essays and creating a convincing narrative around why ‘school X’ is a fit for you and your goals. [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/request-consultation/]Need help planning your approach? click here to connect[/url] Student Ambassador Resources at Top MBA Programs Below is a list of student ambassador resources of some of the [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2021/03/15/comparison-of-top-mba-programs/]top US business schools[/url] as well as London Business School and INSEAD: 1) Chicago Booth The admissions team at Chicago Booth has curated a diverse group of students who are readily available for you to connect with. They even offer a convenient directory where you can find a match based on career interests and other criteria. [list] [*][url=https://apply.chicagobooth.edu/portal/studentvolunteer]Connect with a Student at Booth[/url][/*] [/list] 2) Wharton Wharton has a dedicated team of Admissions Fellows consisting of 55 second-year students who come from diverse backgrounds, pursue various careers, and have a wide range of interests. Like Booth, Wharton provides bios and a searchable database to help you find the best fit for your needs. [list] [*][url=https://mba.wharton.upenn.edu/admissions-fellows/#t=All]Connect with a Wharton Admissions Fellow[/url][/*] [/list] 3) Northwestern Kellogg While Kellogg does not provide the opportunity to directly connect with student ambassadors, it does offer a wide variety of in-person and virtual admissions events, some of which involve Q&A with alums or current students. [list] [*][url=https://admissions.kellogg.northwestern.edu/portal/admissions-events?_gl=1*1022l1*_gcl_au*OTU0MzAwMDI1LjE2ODQxMTk4MDc.&_ga=2.193985261.133881577.1687133234-1502189830.1684119807]Kellogg Admissions Events[/url][/*] [/list] 4) Stanford GSB Similar to Kellogg, the GSB offers opportunities to connect with MBA student ambassadors within the context of its virtual and in-person admissions events. [list] [*][url=https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/programs/mba/admission/events/schedule]Stanford GSB Admissions Events[/url][/*] [/list] 5) Harvard HBS HBS invites local alums to join in-person admissions events in a variety of cities and also occasionally hosts Q&A sessions with current students. [list] [*][url=https://www.hbs.edu/mba/admissions/admissions-events/Pages/default.aspx]Find the next Q&A session with current HBS students[/url][/*] [/list] 6) MIT Sloan ‘Sloan on the Road’ events are designed to offer an immersive experience that provides valuable insights into the program and are joined by MIT Sloan alumni, who make themselves available for 1:1 networking sessions. [list] [*][url=https://mitsloan.mit.edu/mba#admissions-events]Find an MIT Sloan on the Road event near you[/url][/*] [/list] 7) Yale SOM Yale School of Management (SOM) takes pride in its dedicated MBA Student Ambassadors who are current students that play a crucial role as contacts for various clubs, interest groups, and programs within the school. Connecting with these ambassadors will give you a deeper understanding of the Yale SOM experience. [list] [*][url=https://som.yale.edu/programs/mba/admissions/student-ambassadors]Connect with Yale SOM Student Ambassadors[/url][/*] [/list] 8) Columbia Business School Columbia’s MBA Student Ambassadors represent diverse clubs, careers, and interests, with the mission to offer a student perspective on the vibrant life at CBS, both on and off campus. CBS also offers a convenient searchable directory. [list] [*][url=https://apply.gsb.columbia.edu/portal/contact-students]Contact a Student Ambassador at Columbia Business School[/url][/*] [/list] 9) University of California-Berkeley (Haas) Haas Student Ambassadors are passionate current students who provide prospective students with firsthand information and help them dive into the distinctive culture and collaborative community that defines Haas. [list] [*][url=https://mba.haas.berkeley.edu/admissions/student-ambassadors#:~:text=The%20Haas%20Student%20Ambassadors%20(HSAs,distinct%20culture%20and%20collaborative%20community.]Connect with a Student Ambassador at Haas[/url][/*] [/list] 10) University of Michigan (Ross) Ross takes pride in its extensive network of student ambassadors, which it claims surpasses that of any other MBA program. With such a robust group of ambassadors, it’s easy to find individuals who share your interests, backgrounds, and goals. [list] [*][url=https://michiganross.umich.edu/graduate/full-time-mba/admissions/connect-with-a-student]Connect with a Full-Time MBA Student at The University of Michigan (Ross)[/url][/*] [/list] 11) London Business School To provide new students with a glimpse into the LBS ecosystem, the school has thoughtfully compiled a collection of profiles featuring students, alumni, and ambassadors. To connect with an ambassador, simply review the profile and contact them through their email. [list] [*][url=https://www.london.edu/masters-degrees/mba/who-attends/students-alumni-and-ambassadors#sort=relevancy]Connect with an MBA Student Ambassador at London Business School[/url][/*] [/list] 12) INSEAD INSEAD offers the opportunity to connect with an INSEAD Ambassador by request through admissions. You can also view profiles of [url=https://www.insead.edu/master-programmes/mba/alumni/profiles]INSEAD MBA Alumni[/url] to learn more about their experiences. [list] [*][url=https://www.insead.edu/master-programmes/mba/student-life]Contact INSEAD to Connect with a Student Ambassador[/url][/*] [/list] In Summary… MBA student ambassadors are valuable resources when exploring different business school programs. Their insights can provide you with a deeper understanding of the curriculum, culture, campus life, career resources, and more. By leveraging their experiences, you can make a more informed decision about which MBA program aligns best with your goals. We think they are a secret resource for MBA networking! If you need a more personalized action plan and hands-on coaching for your MBA journey, click [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/free-consultation/]here[/url] to schedule a free 30-minute consultation! The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/06/22/mba-student-ambassadors/]MBA Student Ambassadors: The Secret Resource for MBA Networking[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
29 Jun 2023, 14:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: The Best MBA Programs for Healthcare |
 If you’re interested in pursuing a post-MBA career in healthcare, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re sharing the healthcare-focused resources offered by the top US MBA programs. Whether you aim to work for a healthcare or pharmaceutical company, invest in the healthcare space or pursue countless other tangential careers, these programs will equip you with the knowledge and network to make those dreams a reality. Without further ado, here are the best MBA programs for healthcare. The Best MBA Programs for Healthcare Note that while we have assigned a ranking of sorts, each of the programs below offers a strong healthcare curriculum and access to post-MBA roles in the sector. For our ranking methodology, we took into account the overall ranking of the institution, the prominence of each school’s healthcare program, internal client feedback, and post-MBA healthcare placement statistics. 1. Wharton (5% of the most recent class placed into healthcare) Wharton is known for its prestigious Health Care Management (HCM) program. It offers an exceptional curriculum tailored to healthcare leaders, combining business fundamentals with specialized healthcare courses. Uniquely, you must apply to this specialized program as part of your general MBA application and the competition is stiff. Learn more about Wharton’s Healthcare Management Programhere. 2. Kellogg School of Management (4% of the most recent class placed into healthcare; note that it is typically 5-7%) Kellogg is another top MBA program with a well-known healthcare program. Healthcare at Kellogg (HCAK) offers a robust curriculum, including courses in healthcare analytics, innovation, and strategy. The program emphasizes experiential learning and provides access to renowned healthcare organizations. Explore the HCAK Programhere. 3. Duke Fuqua School of Business (11% of the most recent class placed into healthcare) Fuqua’s Health Sector Management (HSM) Program offers a specialized curriculum focused on healthcare management and innovation. The program integrates business skills with real-world healthcare challenges and provides access to Duke’s extensive network of healthcare organizations. Learn more about Duke Fuqua’s Health Sector Management Programhere. 4. Tuck School of Business, Dartmouth College (9% of the most recent class placed into healthcare) Tuck’s Center for Health Care provides a unique interdisciplinary approach to healthcare management, combining business skills with insights from the broader Dartmouth medical community. The program offers experiential learning opportunities and close collaboration with industry experts. Learn more about Tuck’s Center for Health Care here. 5. MIT Sloan (7% of the most recent class placed into healthcare) MIT Sloan offers a comprehensive Health Systems Initiative that combines rigorous coursework with real-world applications. Students can explore areas such as healthcare operations, analytics, and digital health. Discover more about healthcare initiatives at MIT Sloanhere. Need help optimizing your applications? click to connect 6. Harvard Business School (5% of the most recent class placed into healthcare) Harvard’s comprehensive healthcare curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including healthcare strategy, operations, and policy. Through their Health Care Initiative, students can apply innovative management practices to address both urgent and chronic challenges within the healthcare industry. HBS’ Boston location also places students at the center of world class hospitals and medical schools. Discover more about Harvard Business School’s healthcare offering here. 7. Stanford Graduate School of Business (5% of the most recent class placed into healthcare) While Stanford doesn’t have a specialized healthcare degree per se, it does offer an impressive array of healthcare courses, the ability to take classes at other Stanford schools, and a variety of cross-departmental programs that touch healthcare. The GSB has an active healthcare club (GSB | HCC (Healthcare Club) website) which facilitates connection with likeminded peers. Lastly, given its proximity to Silicon Valley, Stanford can be a launchpad into a career in healthcare tech and healthcare VC investing. 8. Columbia Business School (3% of the most recent class placed into healthcare) Columbia’s Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Management Program offers a range of courses focusing on healthcare finance, strategy, and marketing. The program benefits from Columbia’s extensive network and proximity to leading healthcare institutions in New York City. Explore Columbia’s Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Management Programhere. 9. Yale School of Management (4% of the most recent class placed into healthcare) Yale School of Management’s (SOM) Program in Healthcare offers a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes leadership, innovation, and policy. Students can engage with the Yale Health Leadership Institute and participate in healthcare-related conferences and events. Learn more about Yale SOM’s Program in Healthcare here. 10. Booth School of Business, University of Chicago (4% of the most recent class placed into healthcare) Booth’s Healthcare Initiative provides students with a robust curriculum in healthcare analytics, strategy, and economics. The program fosters collaboration with industry leaders through conferences, symposiums, and research opportunities. Discover more about Booth’s Healthcare Initiative here. Concluding Thoughts… While this guide serves as a valuable starting point to understand the best MBA programs for healthcare, it’s important to conduct thorough research to find the program that best aligns with your unique goals and aspirations. Remember that each individual’s needs and preferences may vary, and there may be other programs beyond this list that could be a perfect fit for you. If you need further assistance in selecting the ideal MBA program for your healthcare career, don’t hesitate to reach out to Vantage Point MBA. We can provide personalized guidance and support throughout your application journey. Request your free consultation today. Stay tuned for more upcoming articles in our series, where we will explore other specializations within MBA programs. The post The Best MBA Programs for Healthcare appeared first on Vantage Point MBA. |
06 Jul 2023, 18:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: MBA Application Deadlines for 2023-2024 |
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The MBA application season is in full swing! Most top business schools have released their MBA application deadlines for 2023-2024. Some schools have also officially opened their applications, and many have shared essay questions. If you are applying in Round 1, now is the time to get started. By July, we recommend that Round 1 applicants have solidified their test score, drafted their MBA resume, selected their recommenders, and honed their ‘personal brand’ (i.e., what they’ve done, what they want to do, and why they need an MBA to do it). There is still time to catch up if you are behind, but don’t delay much longer or you risk sacrificing the quality of your applications – the first of which can take 50+ hours to complete! Remember, when you apply matters. [url=https://www.darden.virginia.edu/mba/admissions/apply/early-action]Early action programs[/url] tend to have higher acceptance rates but are typically binding commitments. Round 1 is the optimal round for most applicants, especially those with 4+ years of work experience or who are applying from an over-represented background like consulting. But at the end of the day, the most important factor is [b]what[/b] you submit. So, weigh the factors but don’t sacrifice quality for speed (see our longer article on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2019/06/11/round-1-or-round-2/]Round 1 vs. Round 2[/url] if you’re on the fence). If you can’t put forth your best effort for all of your target programs in Round 1, it is possible to split your applications between Round 1 and Round 2. Just know that you may have to commit to a Round 1 school before receiving a final answer from your Round 2 schools – prioritize accordingly. Here are the MBA application deadlines for 2023-2024 that have been announced so far. Please note that we did not include Round 3 deadlines below as they are not ideal for most applicants (see footnotes for exceptions). [img]https://vantagepointmba.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Application-Deadlines-2324.png[/img] The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/07/06/mba-application-deadlines-for-2023-2024/]MBA Application Deadlines for 2023-2024[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
13 Jul 2023, 14:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: A Wharton MBA Essay Example and Tips for Making Yours the Best They Can Be |
 The Wharton MBA essay prompts are direct and allow enough word count to paint a robust picture of who you are and why Wharton is right for you (and vice versa). As such, this application can be a good one to tackle early in the process. The deadlines are also early in each round, which lends additional credence to this approach. To help you get started – don’t delay, the clock is ticking for Round 1! – today we’re sharing a Wharton MBA essay example as well as some tips to use while crafting your own. Wharton MBA Essay Questions
Wharton MBA Essay Advice Your Career Goals Are the ‘Anchor’ For Essay One When it comes to the first essay, the critical thing to keep in mind is that all of your content should be ‘anchored’ by your short- and long-term career goals. If you haven’t given robust thought to these and done your due diligence to ensure they are sound, now is the time to do so. Once you have defined and refined your career goals, you need to think backwards and forwards. By thinking backwards, we’re encouraging you to think about the formative experiences that led you to your post-MBA career goals. Perhaps in your work as a consultant you were staffed on a healthcare project that opened your eyes to how complex yet exciting the healthcare industry can be. This sparked your interest in shifting to a strategy role within a healthcare company where you can make a lasting impact on the industry and those it touches. Tell the story of that case, focusing on why it was so eye-opening, so the adcom can really feel your passion and the authenticity behind your goals. By thinking forwards, we’re recommending that you think very specifically about the skills you need to build to be successful in your target career. Then, research and describe the unique elements of Wharton’s program that will help you to build them. If the examples you cite are offered by other business schools, they are not specific enough to make a compelling argument as to why Wharton will best position you for success. Getting this part right takes work and that is exactly why it matters. Focus Essay Two on Being a ‘Giver’ Not a ‘Taker’ When it comes to the second essay, take a cue from what Wharton professor extraordinaire Adam Grant’s concept of ‘givers and takers’. Whereas the ‘why Wharton’ section of the first essay can cover what you will ‘take’ from the experience, this essay should focus on the ways in which you will be a ‘giver’ while at Wharton and even after graduation. A giver ‘…[looks] to help others by making an introduction, giving advice, providing mentoring, or sharing knowledge, without any strings attached.’ To be in a position to ‘give’, you need to have a unique knowledge base, personality trait, or past experience from which others will benefit. This is the crux of the essay. It is, first and foremost, the place to share what distinguishes you from other applicants. Because the first essay is so career focused, we urge clients to write about something personal here. For example, a past client discussed how she would use the determination that had helped her overcome personal challenges to motivate her peers in Wharton Women in Business. She went on to describe a specific area of programming she would bring to the club that tied in with some of the personal challenges she had conquered. The essay was strategic, specific, and thoughtful (and it was successful in earning her an acceptance with full scholarship). Need help optimizing your applications? click to connect Wharton MBA Essay Example Because it’s often hard to put theory into practice, below is a Wharton MBA essay example from one of our clients who was accepted (with scholarship!). Wharton MBA Essay Example – Essay 1 My experience advising consumer products companies at [company x] and driving strategic go-to-market decisions at [company y] have sparked a fascination with strategy at the intersection of consumer and technology. Coupled with a Wharton MBA and a post-MBA role at a consumer technology startup, I plan to leverage these experiences to, one day, lead the strategy function of a company that disrupts a previously-established market by understanding and changing consumer behavior, like Airbnb or StitchFix. In my work to date, I have seen both ends of the innovation spectrum, which has driven home the importance of responding to quickly evolving customer needs. At [company x], while interviewing company executives on a project for a multinational food manufacturer, I was surprised to find that they were focusing investment on legacy products that, while historically lucrative, would not position the company for future success in the face of changing consumer trends. In contrast, [company y] makes every strategic play based on customer needs. When customers became increasingly segmented by industry, we reorganized the sales team into industry verticals. When COVID-19 struck, we released [product], a product that helps customers evaluate how to safely restart operations. Combining my [company x] and [company y] experiences, I see an opportunity to leverage a deep understanding of consumer trends, based in data and analytics, to disrupt a consumer market with technology. To succeed in this journey, I need to build the core business principles that were not a part of my liberal arts undergraduate education and develop my personal leadership style. At Wharton, a double major in Business Analytics and Strategic Management will provide a deep understanding of business fundamentals while teaching me to be an innovative strategic leader. Classes like Managing the Emerging Enterprise with Exequiel Hernandez will provide hands-on experience analyzing high-growth organizations, teaching me the fundamental principles of managing a disruptive consumer technology firm, from early competitive positioning to organizational structure and the strategic and operational art of expansion. Further, understanding and developing my personal leadership style will be paramount to my future career. By taking part in the McNulty Leadership Program’s Leadership Ventures, such as the Quantico Intensive, I will apply my existing teamwork skills to a fast-paced problem-solving exercise. As someone who has always found growth in situations outside my comfort zone, I am excited to explore my personal leadership traits in this intense, hands-on environment, which will prepare me for the dynamic pace of the consumer technology industry. Lastly, a leadership position in the Technology Club will provide access to Wharton’s broad industry resources and alumni base, preparing me to hit the ground running in a post-MBA role at a consumer technology start-up. Joining an existing but early stage company will expose me to the ins and outs of my target industry and, as is the nature with start-ups, provide experience playing multiple roles in a dynamic format. This breadth of experience will provide a holistic perspective on a consumer technology company’s growth levers and industry dynamics, solidifying my preparation to serve as a strategic leader. Wharton MBA Essay Example – Essay 2 My parents nicknamed me “the quiet giant” because I was always the underdog whose determination surprised those who underestimated me. I grew up smaller than my peers, so when my softball coach told me that my size would prevent me from being competitive, I was crushed by his quick judgment of my size. Rather than letting this criticism deter me, I became resolved to prove him wrong. I persistently practiced my pitching technique and, two years later, was the best pitcher in the league, going on to win the all-star championship. In this pivotal moment, I was overcome with pride and realized that success was possible if I kept my will to persevere and pushed past my ‘limits’. Throughout my life, I have leveraged this determination to benefit the communities and teams of which I have been a part. At [company y], I led a team of ten to create an automated headcount dataset that saved the strategy organization hundreds of hours of manual work each quarter. While this project required strategic alignment and technical creativity, my biggest contribution was my ability to motivate the team. We hit many roadblocks, but I took on every challenge with an open mind, encouraging my team to think creatively and listening receptively to each person’s perspective. As a result, our solution transformed the way the organization reports on headcount growth. These same motivating principles and teamwork skills will allow me to make valuable contributions to the Wharton community. I look forward to using my determination to help motivate my learning team when coursework is challenging or the demands of recruiting wear on us. Through core classes like Corporate Finance, the difficulty of which has been emphasized by current students, I will work closely with my learning team and encourage my peers to persevere. As a leader of WWIB, I look forward to working alongside my female peers to build our confidence in business settings and otherwise. As a woman in the male-dominated field of consulting, I have unfortunately felt the impact of being overlooked. After joining [company y], I attended courses on public speaking for women and was encouraged to voice my opinions. As a result of my determination to grow in this way, my confidence and presentation skills improved, which enabled my promotion to Manager. I look forward to continuing to develop these skills within WWIB alongside my diverse and talented female peers. We hope you found this Wharton MBA essay example helpful and can apply our essay writing tips to your own personal narrative. We’re here to help if you’re struggling. Click here to request a free consultation. The post A Wharton MBA Essay Example and Tips for Making Yours the Best They Can Be appeared first on Vantage Point MBA. |
20 Jul 2023, 12:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: How to Approach the New (!) Kellogg Essays |
 If you’re applying to Kellogg and have been patiently waiting for them to release their essay questions, the time has come! The prompts have been reworked this year, after a number of application cycles without changes. Without further ado, here are the prompts for this year’s Kellogg essays:
Note: There is also a third required essay for those applying to a specialized MBA program and/or for those who are reapplying. Finally, Kellogg has three video essay questions that will need to be submitted within 96 hours of the application deadline (a link will be sent to you after you submit your application). Advice for Approaching the Kellogg Essays While the Kellogg essays may have changed, the qualities they look for haven’t. Let’s start by defining exactly what those qualities are. Kellogg shares that they value individuals who:
A strong thread throughout each of these criteria is that Kellogg highly prioritizes soft skills – in short, they want leaders who bring people together to innovate and solve challenges. Before you even consider how you will approach the Kellogg essays, give thought to how you embody this statement and brainstorm examples that prove this is true. Think Long and Hard About the Story You Select for Essay One As the first essay prompt indicates, Kellogg is looking for you to share one concrete ‘story’ in your answer. So, essentially, you have one shot to demonstrate why, as proven by a past experience, you are a strong leader that can overcome challenges and have impact on the organizations of which you are a part. That’s a lot of pressure to put on one story, so it’s important to choose wisely. Our recommended approach is to brainstorm a variety of stories you could potentially use here and not simply go with the first one that comes to mind. Just because an accomplishment was personally significant to you doesn’t mean it is the best material for this essay. Most applicants will likely share a professional example, but an extracurricular situation could work equally as well. Whichever you choose, we recommend that it is relatively recent (within the last two years) and involves teamwork of some kind. Kellogg wants to see the kind of leader you are today and given the heavily team-oriented nature of the program, telling a story about a time you accomplished something without the help of others doesn’t demonstrate the fit they are looking for. Once you’ve brainstormed a list of stories, consider which skills (beyond teamwork, which is non-negotiable) each one highlights. Compare this list of skills with the personal branding you’ve developed earlier in the application process – which story feels most cohesive with the picture you are trying to present of yourself? Which story highlights the broadest list of MBA-applicable skills, notably those that are important to Kellogg which places a lot of value on soft skills? In fact, we think a successful essay could speak to primarily (if not all) soft skills given Kellogg’s culture and also because hard skills can be showcased through your test score, GPA, and resume. Ask yourself these questions as you narrow down your list to that perfect example. Revisit Your Personal Branding (Again!) for Essay Two You may find your head spinning upon reading the second essay prompt, wondering how you’ll possibly narrow down the list of ‘things’ you might share. Note that we’re using the term ‘things’ here because, while the essay prompt references ‘experiences’, we’d suggest that you can also think beyond discrete situations or characteristics and consider including more conceptual influences or themes that make you who you are. For instance, perhaps you’ve lived in seven countries in your lifetime – that combination of ‘experiences’ and their influence on you could be a topic of discussion. To start, we recommend that you revisit your personal branding work. What formative experiences or influences did you identify as being the driving force behind what you’ve done to date and what you hope to do in the future? Consider these the top contenders for inclusion in this essay because, beyond painting a picture of who you are, they should connect with why Kellogg – and an MBA in general – is right for you (in other words, they tell Kellogg who you are AND, critically, why they should care). Of note, make sure you don’t lean entirely professional in this essay. Even if you feel like your differentiated work experience is your key ‘selling’ point, it is important to weave in some personal background as well. Kellogg (and business schools in general) want you to bring your whole self to campus, so being comfortable opening up in the application demonstrates you are ready to contribute in this way if admitted. Once you’ve chosen and described the ‘things’ that make you unique, it is critical to share discrete ways in which you will utilize your perspective, skill set, etc. to improve the experience of others in the Kellogg community. Avoid a laundry list here and, instead, demonstrate you’ve put real thought into how you will contribute on campus with a few specific and impactful examples. Need help applying this guidance to your kellogg essays? click to connect Structure Ideas for the Kellogg Essays For Essay 1, we recommend a structure somewhat like this:
For Essay 2, we recommend a structure somewhat like this:
Kellogg Video Essay Tips Kellogg requires you to record and submit responses to three questions, which you will not know in advance. The only clues they give are that the questions are designed to ‘help you showcase your personality and share some of the experiences that brought you here today’. Not knowing the questions can feel intimidating, but we recommend you prepare an introduction of yourself that highlights your personality (hobbies, interests, etc. are fair game!) and also brainstorm a list of the best stories you imagine using for behavioral interview questions. Procedurally speaking, once the clock starts ticking, you will have 20 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to answer each question. Focus the bulk of your practice on getting the timing right – a minute is shorter than you think! So, practice (out loud!) using the STAR format to tell each of your stories within this timeframe so you ensure you don’t get cut off before you can share the awesome ‘result’ you drove. Good luck! The post How to Approach the New (!) Kellogg Essays appeared first on Vantage Point MBA. |
27 Jul 2023, 11:00
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: How to Ensure Your Tuck MBA Essays Are Stellar |
 If you thrive in tightknit communities and value experiential learning, particularly in an international locale, Dartmouth Tuck might be the perfect fit for your MBA journey. Speaking of ‘fit’, this concept should be central to your Tuck MBA essays to ensure their content resonates with the Tuck admissions committee. So, what exactly entails ‘fit’ with Tuck? Fortunately, they tell us! In fact, Tuck devotes an entire page on its website to ‘admissions criteria’ – the four characteristics it seeks in successful applicants: smart, accomplished, aware and encouraging. ‘Smart’ and ‘accomplished’ are basically givens for any highly regarded MBA program. However, ‘aware’ and ‘encouraging’ are a bit more nuanced. After you have solid drafts of your Tuck MBA essays, be sure to revisit these criteria and ask yourself (or a trusted friend) whether they come to the forefront. Make sure your letters of recommendation showcase these characteristics as well. Before we dive into our advice for the Tuck MBA essays, here are the questions for easy reference:
Note: There is a fourth required essay for reapplicants – How have you strengthened your candidacy since you last applied? Please reflect on how you have grown personally and professionally. (300 words) Advice for Approaching the Tuck MBA Essays Thorough Research About Tuck Should Be the Backbone of Each Essay, Especially Essay One Even more than other schools, Tuck really cares that you’ve taken the time to understand what makes its program unique and why its specific resources fit your goals. This is one school we highly, highly encourage our clients to visit for exactly this reason. If a visit isn’t feasible, attend enough in-person or virtual events and do enough networking to replicate the knowledge you would have gleaned from the full-scale campus experience (class visit, lunch with students, campus tour, etc.) Also, take the time to thoroughly reflect on why what you’ve learned matters for your specific circumstances – the way you learn, the skills you are looking to build in school, the connections you need to form. Then, thoughtfully communicate these insights in your essays. Essay one is the obvious place for this, but essay two is another good place to highlight the parts of your personality that will make you a great ‘Tuckie’. One thing to note for essay one is that it doesn’t ask about your career goals specifically. This is likely because imbedded in the Tuck application are two short-answer questions (each with a 50-word limit) that ask you to share your short-term and long-term career goals. Since the word count is limited in essay one, we don’t recommend restating your career goals here. Instead, pick up where your short answers left off by providing more insight into the “why” behind your goals. That “why” can then shape your specific motivations for pursuing an MBA and be the foundation for your fit with Tuck. One other watch out for essay one is that new this year, Tuck has added the words ‘why now’ to the prompt. Make sure to address why leaving your job to attend business school at this point in time is optimal. Highlight a Few Distinct Characteristics in Essay Two Essay two leaves a lot to cover in 300 words! As such, selectivity is key. What are the two or three things (personality traits, elements of your background, values, etc.) that really define who you are? Filter these through Tuck’s four criteria and select the two (or even one, if robust enough) that you don’t highlight elsewhere in the application and align with your personal brand. Beyond defining these elements of your background, it’s critical to discuss how they’ve shaped who you are and how you respond to situations. Supporting examples to ‘prove’ out any statements you make about your character or approach in life can be a nice touch, if you have the space. Afterwards, spend a short paragraph extrapolating how these traits will play out at Tuck and why they will allow you to better the experience of your classmates. Making specific, well thought out points are key to doing this successfully. Your Actions are Key to Essay Three Essay three is aimed squarely at identifying whether an applicant fits with Tuck’s key ‘aware’ and ‘encouraging’ criteria. It’s hard to see how someone who fits these criteria would lack a great story to tell here. Take your time to brainstorm potential options and keep in mind that even ‘small’ situations can make for impactful essays. Your actions may not have fundamentally changed the trajectory of someone’s life and that’s ok. The keys here are that you are perceptive enough to identify when another person may not feel included and take the initiative to remedy the situation. Those qualities make for a true leader – perhaps on a small scale today but it’s easy to see how this could extend to fostering an inclusive culture across a large organization in the future. As you write, be sure to spend the bulk of the content describing your actions in detail. Frame up the context as briefly and simply as you can so that you can maximize the space devoted to the nuances of your approach – beyond the actions you took, drill into your thoughts, words, etc. The word count is limiting, so it will take some trial and error to get this right. increase your odds 3x by partnering with vantage point Structure Ideas for the Tuck MBA Essays For Essay one, we recommend a structure somewhat like this:
For Essay Two, we recommend a structure somewhat like this:
For Essay Three, we recommend a structure somewhat like this:
If you would like personalized advice on your Tuck MBA essays, click here to request an initial consultation. Good luck! The post How to Ensure Your Tuck MBA Essays Are Stellar appeared first on Vantage Point MBA. |
03 Aug 2023, 18:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: What is a Deferred MBA Program and Should I Apply? |
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[img]https://vantagepointmba.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Untitled-design-14-1024x536.png[/img] In recent years, we’ve seen significant growth in deferred MBA programs at the top business schools. A trend that started primarily with the [url=https://www.hbs.edu/mba/admissions/application-process/college-students-2-2/Pages/default.aspx]HBS 2+2 program[/url] and [url=https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/programs/mba/admission/deferred-enrollment]Stanford Deferred Enrollment[/url] has now come to Wharton, Chicago Booth, Columbia, MIT Sloan, Kellogg, and more. The[url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2022/01/20/deferred-enrollment-mba-program-round-up/] list of deferred admission[/url] (or enrollment) MBA programs continues to grow every year. So, what is a deferred MBA program exactly? Generally, they entail a full-time two-year MBA program that you apply for as a college senior (or graduate student) and attend after having worked for 2-5 years. During the ‘deferral period’ – between college graduation and arriving on campus for your MBA – many business schools offer access to their career services office and/or student programming like industry conferences. As a college senior, are you wondering, “If I take this job over another, will my chances of getting into a top business school be higher or lower?” or “Will this job give me enough experience to be appealing to the top MBA programs?”. As we’ve all learned over the past few years, life (and your career) can take many paths – some of which you can’t even conceive of right now. Maybe the start-up you join after graduation will IPO next year and your career will take off. Or maybe your Peace Corps assignment will show you a new set of global problems that you will want to solve as a future business or nonprofit leader. Conversely, perhaps your first job will help you see that banking or marketing wasn’t for you after all. Regardless, if you want the freedom to take a job without wondering what it means for your future grad school prospects AND be able to take more risks and explore, then a deferred MBA program may be the right move for you. Should You Apply to Deferred MBA Programs? Initial Questions to Ask Now that you know the answer to ‘what is a deferred MBA program’, you may be wondering whether it is worth your time and effort to apply. Here’s what to ask yourself: [list] [*]Are you a college senior or in a master’s program that you began right after undergrad (law and medical school may or may not count, depending on the MBA program)?[/*] [*]Are you reasonably confident that you’ll want to go to business school in the next 2-5 years?[/*] [/list] If the answers to these two questions are “yes”, then there isn’t much of a downside of applying if your overall profile is in the running (scores, GPA, etc.). Further, there is a lot of upside if you’re among the few admitted each year. What GMAT and GPA Do I Need for Top Deferred MBA Programs? [list] [*]GMAT: For most programs, you need to have a GMAT or GRE score to apply. 720+ is going to be the score you want to shoot for. Last year’s MIT Sloan Early Admission Program median GMAT was 750 (whoa!) and, while HBS 2+2 no longer reports this data point, the last median GMAT score they published was 730, as a reference. [/*] [*]GPA: Strong undergrad performance is key. As a benchmark, last year’s MIT Sloan Early Admission Program average GPA was an exceptional 3.88![/*] [/list] Without competitive data points, you’ll have a tough time hitting the bar for the deferred MBA programs, but the good news is that you have plenty of time to take more coursework and prove yourself before the ‘traditional’ application cycle in a few years. What Else Goes into Applying to Deferred MBA Programs? [list] [*]Essays: To write strong essays, you’ll need to do a lot of self-reflection and seek advice from mentors. You’ll need to have a vision as well as a sense for your strengths and weaknesses at this stage of your career.[/*] [*]Recommendations: To secure powerful recommendations, you’ll need to have built strong relationships with individuals who can opine on your potential as a future business leader. These can include professors, an internship manager, or campus leadership advisor. [/*] [/list] Some schools favor certain applicant qualities or focus areas. For instance, HBS 2+2 admits are roughly 70% STEM majors and admissions has stated a preference for those: 1) planning to work in an operating company (tech, manufacturing, consumer goods, retail, industrials, etc.), 2) from a lower socio-economic background, 3) going into a technically demanding role, or 4) pursuing entrepreneurship. So, What’s the Catch? Hint: There Might Not Be One Deferred MBA programs are incredibly competitive. If your scores and stats are in range, then we encourage people to apply if it feels like the right program for them. Many people wonder if an unsuccessful application to a deferred MBA program will hurt their future chances and the answer is definitely no! In fact, reapplying in the future may signal your strong interest in a particular program. Vantage Point MBA Consultant and former Director of Admission at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business Gretchen Athas says, “When the admissions committees see someone who is back ‘at bat’ and with an even stronger profile, it’s viewed very favorably. It demonstrates commitment when we can see that someone took an unsuccessful result and turned that into personal and professional growth so they could apply again down the road.” If you’d like to discuss whether applying to deferred MBA programs might be right for you, contact us [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/free-consultation/]here[/url] for a free 30-minute consultation. The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/08/03/what-is-a-deferred-mba/]What is a Deferred MBA Program and Should I Apply?[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
11 Aug 2023, 04:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: Sloan MBA Essay Guidance for 2023-24 |
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[img]https://vantagepointmba.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Untitled-design-15-1024x536.png[/img] Aside from HBS and Stanford GSB’s notoriously open-ended prompts, MIT Sloan’s essay ‘question’ (if you want to call it a question) is undoubtedly the one that leaves applicants scratching their heads about what to write. Not only is Sloan’s ‘Cover Letter’ format unique, but the word limit is incredibly short and forces you to have a laser focus on the elements of your personality / experience that demonstrate your fit with Sloan’s culture. To help steer you in the right direction, today we’re sharing our best Sloan MBA essay guidance. If you’re just getting started on your [url=https://mitsloan.mit.edu/mba/admissions/how-to-apply]Sloan application[/url], here is the prompt for quick reference: “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 professional examples that illustrate why you meet the desired criteria above, and be addressed to the Admissions Committee (300 words or fewer, excluding address and salutation).” Sloan MBA Essay Guidance – Frameworks Let the Prompt Be Your Guide Pay close attention to the language of the Sloan cover letter prompt because it helpfully describes the qualities Sloan seeks in a successful applicant. Many of these are similar to those sought by all of the top MBA programs – intellectual strength, track record of accomplishments, and ability to bring dimension to the cohort. However, the critical things to note here are those that make Sloan different – its orientation towards an independent mindset and creative problem-solving. They don’t just want someone who ‘got the job done’, they want the person who redefined the problem and came up with a solution no one had thought of before. With only 300 words at your disposal, you simply don’t have space to separately demonstrate you possess each of the more basic traits. For these, utilize the other components of the application – your GMAT/GPA can help prove your intellect, your resume showcases your history of accomplishments, and your video essay should highlight what makes you unique. In the cover letter, make a solid case – supported by one or maybe two stories – that you are an innovative thinker who isn’t afraid of rocking the boat to enable progress. Anchor on One Story that Highlights a Capstone Accomplishment and Demonstrates Fit with Sloan The ideal story to use is career-focused (given the tone of the prompt and – new this year – the fact that it explicitly asks for professional examples), recent, and has a connecting thread with how you will contribute at Sloan if admitted. Make a list of your ‘capstone’ accomplishments and select the one (or maybe two if they are short) that highlights how you led in a way that transformed others’ thinking, creatively solved a problem that had stumped others before, or identified an opportunity that no one had thought of (or had the courage to raise) before. These are the types of stories that will resonate with the Sloan adcom. In addition to telling this story, your cover letter should read similarly to one you would use to apply for a job (that you REALLY want). The adcom has provided the ‘job description’ (i.e., what they look for in candidates), you need to convincingly pitch that YOU are the best candidate to fulfill these criteria. Tell your story but also tell the adcom why they should care. In other words, draw the connection as to why the story you’ve told about yourself (and the qualities it proves you possess) will make you a perfect fit for Sloan. Additionally, explain how you will put these qualities to use while at Sloan to benefit the experience of your peers in class, clubs, recruiting, etc. Past Accomplishments, Not Future Goals, Should Be the Focus We find that applicants always want to build in a discussion of their career goals and why MBA / why Sloan into their cover letter. We get why this is tempting! That said, 300 words is incredibly limiting, and the Sloan cover letter should be more about sharing what you will ‘give’ to Sloan than about what you will take away from it. You can certainly orient the ways you will contribute at Sloan towards things (i.e., clubs, classes) that are relevant to your future career goals. But, in our experience, it is hard to fully develop both what you will ‘give’ and what you will ‘take’ in 300 words. Sloan MBA Essay Guidance – Structure For your cover letter, we recommend a structure somewhat like this: P1: Without restating your resume, lay out the differentiating or notable qualities you bring to the table and overview why these should matter to the Sloan adcom P2: Share a story that supports this ‘brand’ and hits on the Sloan-specific qualities mentioned above P3: Drive the argument home by asserting why these qualities will make you an asset to the Sloan community, with 1-2 concrete contributions you will make while in the program *Bonus* Sloan MBA Essay Guidance – Video Statement Tips In addition to the cover letter, Sloan asks you to submit a 60-second video statement, as described in the following prompt: ‘Introduce yourself to your future classmates. Here’s your chance to put a face with a name, let your personality shine through, be conversational, be yourself. We can’t wait to meet you!’ Since your cover letter will likely be professionally focused, the video statement is a great place to share who you are outside of work and the unique attributes you would bring to the class. Specific content will vary from person to person of course, but remember that Sloan values independent thought, fearless creativity, and passion. What about you hits on these notes? Perhaps the most important thing to do to ensure you submit a strong video statement is practice. Unlike other schools’ video essays, you know the prompt and can record and re-record yourself until you are satisfied with the output. And so can the competition! So, give this application component the thought and attention it deserves to ensure you stand out. If you’d like expert, personalized Sloan MBA essay guidance, reach out to [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/request-consultation/]request a free consultation[/url]. The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/08/11/sloan-mba-essay-guidance/]Sloan MBA Essay Guidance for 2023-24[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
17 Aug 2023, 15:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: The Best MBA Programs for Entrepreneurship |
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[img]https://vantagepointmba.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Untitled-design-16-1024x536.png[/img] If you’re interested in pursuing an entrepreneurial career, either immediately post-MBA or in the long term, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re sharing the entrepreneurship-focused resources offered by the top US MBA programs. For those targeting an entrepreneurial path, it’s not just about earning an MBA, but immersing yourself in an ecosystem that nurtures and refines entrepreneurial aspirations. Without further ado, here are the best MBA programs for entrepreneurship. Our List of the Best MBA Programs for Entrepreneurship Note that while we have assigned a ranking of sorts, each of the programs below offers a strong entrepreneurship curriculum and resources. For our ranking methodology, we took into account the overall ranking of the institution, the prominence of each school’s entrepreneurship offerings, internal client feedback, and post-MBA healthcare placement statistics. 1. Stanford Graduate School of Business When you think of MBA programs for those who want to launch a business, Stanford GSB is likely top of mind. The GSB boasts a robust and influential platform for aspiring entrepreneurs, with over 60 courses in entrepreneurship and innovation including the well-known ‘Start Up Garage’. Stanford GSB offers a multifaceted program that equips students with the skills, resources, and mindset necessary to excel in the entrepreneurial landscape. The GSB reports that 19% of the Class of 2022 started their own businesses upon graduation. Learn more about the [url=https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/experience/learning/entrepreneurship]Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) Entrepreneurship Program[/url]. 2. Harvard Business School (HBS) HBS recognizes the critical role entrepreneurship plays in business and has designed a multifaceted program to cater to the needs of those eager to launch and lead ventures. With an Entrepreneurship ‘track’ embedded within the curriculum, HBS provides a structured path that immerses students in the intricacies of entrepreneurship. Central to HBS’ approach is the integration of entrepreneurship across various disciplines. This strategy ensures that aspiring entrepreneurs receive a well-rounded education that spans finance, marketing, strategy, and operations, while simultaneously delving deep into the specifics of building and scaling businesses. HBS reports that over 50% of its graduates launch at least one venture in their career, with 13% doing so directly after graduation, which helps ensure that entrepreneurs have plenty of likeminded peers on campus (and beyond). Learn more about the Harvard Business School [url=https://www.hbs.edu/mba/entrepreneurship/Pages/default.aspx]Entrepreneurship & Innovation[/url] Program. 3. MIT Sloan The MIT Sloan School of Management MBA program offers a cutting-edge and immersive education for aspiring entrepreneurs. With its fusion of academic excellence, hands-on experiences, and access to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, MIT Sloan equips graduates with the skills, knowledge, and mindset required to thrive in the world of startups and innovation. The program’s reputation for excellence and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of entrepreneurship position graduates as leaders who can drive transformative change, push technological boundaries, and leave a lasting impact on the business world. Sloan reports that 10% of its most recent class planned to start a business upon graduation. Learn more about the [url=https://entrepreneurship.mit.edu/sloan-entrepreneurship-innovation/]MIT Sloan E+I Certificate[/url]. 4. Wharton Wharton offers a dynamic entrepreneurship curriculum that seamlessly integrates with its renowned foundational business education. The Wharton Entrepreneurship courses cover a diverse range of topics, from startup strategy and venture financing to innovation and market validation. These courses provide students with a solid foundation while offering insights specific to the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Wharton reports that 7% of its most recent class planned to start their own business upon graduation. Learn more about the [url=https://mgmt.wharton.upenn.edu/programs/mba/entrepreneurship-innovation/]Wharton Entrepreneurship and Innovation Major[/url]. 5. Chicago Booth Chicago Booth’s concentration in entrepreneurship is well regarded for preparing aspiring entrepreneurs. With a rigorous analytical approach, the program equips students with the ability to dissect complex market dynamics and make data-driven decisions. Flexibility in the curriculum allows for tailored education, while a faculty comprising accomplished academics and industry experts ensures a well-rounded learning experience. The Chicago Approach, emphasizing intellectual curiosity and open-mindedness, fosters calculated risk-taking and unconventional problem-solving. Collaborating closely with the [url=https://polsky.uchicago.edu/]Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation[/url], students gain access to resources, mentorship, and real-world learning opportunities. Booth’s renowned New Venture Challenge has launched more than 300 businesses to date including Grubhub and Venmo. Booth reports that 3% of its most recent class planned to launch a business after graduation. Learn more about the [url=https://www.chicagobooth.edu/mba/academics/curriculum/concentrations/entrepreneurship]Chicago Booth Program for Entrepreneurship[/url]. 6. Haas School of Business The Haas curriculum is one that seamlessly blends foundational business education with specialized coursework in entrepreneurship. The Berkeley Entrepreneurs Association (BEA), with over 400 members, and the extensive entrepreneurship curriculum provide students with insights into venture capital, business planning, social entrepreneurship, and startup strategies, equipping them with a comprehensive skill set. Haas reports that 5% of its most recent graduating class planned to launch a business. Learn more about the [url=https://mba.haas.berkeley.edu/careers/entrepreneurship]Haas Entrepreneurship Program[/url]. 7. Kellogg School of Management The Entrepreneurship at Kellogg MBA program stands out by combining experiential learning, a collaborative culture, a tailored curriculum, global perspectives, a focus on social impact, a vibrant ecosystem, and a strong reputation. These factors collectively contribute to an educational journey that equips students with the skills, mindset, and connections to thrive as innovative and responsible entrepreneurs in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Uniquely, Kellogg offers three paths within entrepreneurship – founder-focused (for a traditional entrepreneurship path), entrepreneurship through acquisition (for those interested in a search fund or similar), and entrepreneurial finance (for those pursuing VC). It also offers a strong accelerator program called Zell Fellows and the option to do a semester in San Francisco, the heart of the startup world. Kellogg reports that 2% of its most recent class planned to start their own business upon graduation. Learn more about [url=https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/academics-research/entrepreneurship.aspx]Entrepreneurship at Kellogg[/url]. 8. Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business is committed to experiential learning. The Entrepreneurship Initiative offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers foundational business concepts while going deep into startup strategies, venture capital, and innovation management. Students are encouraged to challenge conventional thinking, cultivate resilience, and embrace a hands-on approach to problem-solving. Tuck reports that 2% of its most recent class was starting a business upon graduation.vLearn more about the Tuck [url=https://ce.tuck.dartmouth.edu/]Center for Entrepreneurship.[/url] 9. University of Texas – Austin (McCombs) UT McCombs offers a concentration in entrepreneurship and easy access to the robust Austin start up community. With its experiential learning opportunities, focus on mentorship and commitment to fostering innovation, McCombs equips graduates with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in the world of startups and innovation. McCombs reports that 2% of its most recent class planned to launch their own venture. Learn more about the [url=https://utexas.app.box.com/v/entrepreneurship]Entrepreneurship Concentration at McCombs[/url]. 10. Ross School of Business At Ross’ center is its action-based learning philosophy, epitomized by its required Multidisciplinary Action Projects (MAP) which can be focused on entrepreneurship or venture capital. This experiential learning opportunity immerses students in real-world business challenges, enabling them to collaborate with companies, startups, and organizations to develop strategic solutions. Ross also offers a robust entrepreneurship curriculum, an internship program for those looking to work at a startup or VC fund, and access to the schoolwide Michigan Business Competition. Ross’ percentage of graduates launching a new business was a small but mighty <1%. Learn more about the entrepreneurship resources at [url=https://michiganross.umich.edu/graduate/full-time-mba/careers/entrepreneurship]Ross School of Business[/url]. Selecting an MBA program geared toward entrepreneurship is an investment in your ability to innovate and lead. This decision connects you with mentors, collaborators, and the insights needed to launch and grow businesses. With every class, pitch, and connection, you’re taking steps toward realizing your entrepreneurial dreams. If you need further assistance curating a personalized list of the best MBA programs for entrepreneurship, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can provide hands on guidance and support throughout your application journey. [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/request-consultation/]Request your initial consultation today.[/url] The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/08/17/the-best-mba-programs-for-entreprenuership/]The Best MBA Programs for Entrepreneurship[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
24 Aug 2023, 14:00
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: The Best MBA Programs for Sustainability |
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[img]https://vantagepointmba.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Untitled-design-17-1024x536.png[/img] In a world where environmental consciousness and corporate responsibility are top of mind, the idea of sustainability has evolved from a mere buzzword into a driving force shaping the business world. At its core, sustainability reinforces the idea that businesses can thrive while safeguarding the environment, promoting social equity, and fostering economic resilience. Top MBA programs have quickly become the training ground for those who dream of a sustainability focused career. If this is you, be sure to read on for our list of the best MBA programs for sustainability. The Best MBA Programs for Sustainability Note that while we have assigned a ranking of sorts, each of the programs below offers a strong sustainability curriculum and resources. For our ranking methodology, we took into account the overall ranking of the institution, the prominence of each school’s sustainability offerings, and internal client feedback. While our other MBA specialty guides take post-MBA employment statistics into account, that was difficult to consider here as sustainability-focused careers span many industries and functions. 1. MIT Sloan School of Management Renowned for its pioneering spirit, MIT Sloan offers a Sustainability Certificate Program (and has since 2010!) that combines cutting-edge research with real-world applications. With a focus on sustainable business models and innovative solutions, MIT Sloan prepares graduates to make a lasting impact on the world. Learn more about the MIT Sloan Sustainability Initiative: [list] [*][url=https://mitsloan.mit.edu/sustainability-initiative/sustainability-certificate]Sustainability Certificate[/url][/*] [*][url=https://mitsloan.mit.edu/sustainability-initiative/sustainability-courses]Sustainability Courses[/url][/*] [/list] 2. UC Berkeley Haas School of Business The Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley offers a robust sustainability curriculum that empowers students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the intricate intersection of business and sustainability. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of sustainable business practices, ethical decision-making, and responsible leadership. Learn more about the Sustainability Student Opportunities at Berkeley Haas: [list] [*][url=https://haas.berkeley.edu/sustainability/student-opportunities/sustainability-course-list/]Haas Sustainability Curriculum[/url][/*] [*][url=https://haas.berkeley.edu/sustainability/student-opportunities/graduate-certificate/]Michaels Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Business[/url][/*] [*][url=https://haas.berkeley.edu/sustainability/student-opportunities/summer-minor-in-sustainable-business-and-policy/]Summer Minor in Sustainable Business and Policy[/url][/*] [*][url=https://haas.berkeley.edu/sustainability/student-opportunities/extracurricular-opportunities/]Extracurricular Opportunities[/url][/*] [*][url=https://haas.berkeley.edu/sustainability/student-opportunities/campus-sustainability-courses/]Campus Courses[/url][/*] [/list] 3. Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) The Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) MBA program for sustainability distinguishes itself through a fusion of interdisciplinary education, experiential learning, and a commitment to innovation. The program leverages its innovative ecosystem to provide students with hands-on experience in addressing real-world sustainability challenges. Incorporating sustainability into core business education, fostering practical expertise, and capitalizing on its innovative ecosystem, the Stanford GSB program empowers graduates to become effective sustainability leaders. The GSB also offers an [url=https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/programs/mba/academic-experience/joint-dual-degrees/e-iper]MS Environment and Resources (E-IPER)/MBA Joint Degree[/url]. [list] [*]Learn more about the [url=https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/newsroom/school-news/stanford-gsb-expands-focus-business-sustainability]Stanford Graduate School of Business’ Focus on Business and Sustainability[/url].[/*] [/list] 4. Columbia Business School The Climate Change and Business Program of the Columbia Business School is a dynamic initiative centered on harnessing the power of markets and business acumen to identify and execute strategies aimed at mitigating, adapting to, or even reversing the effects of climate change, both locally and on a global scale. CBS offers a spectrum of valuable sustainability resources, including a curated selection of courses designed to cultivate an understanding of the interplay between climate change and business dynamics. [list] [*]Learn more about the [url=https://business.columbia.edu/socialenterprise/initiatives/climate-change]Climate Change and Business Program[/url].[/*] [/list] 5. Yale School of Management By infusing sustainability with its curriculum, SOM graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of how sustainable practices intersect with various business functions, equipping them to lead organizations toward responsible and impactful business strategies. Yale School of Management’s global leadership emphasis prepares students to address complex global challenges through sustainable solutions, fostering a cross-cultural and socially conscious approach to leadership on the global stage. [list] [*]Learn more about the [url=https://som.yale.edu/programs/emba/curriculum/areas-focus/sustainability]Yale School of Management Sustainability Area of Focus[/url].[/*] [/list] 6. Northwestern Kellogg Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management offers a dynamic sustainability-focused MBA program the Energy & Sustainability pathway. It presents an invaluable roadmap that directs students toward a wealth of curricular resources essential for steering enterprises in natural-resource-based sectors This pathway uniquely equips individuals to incorporate sustainability into both enterprise operations and investment decisions. [list] [*]Learn more about Kellogg’s [url=https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/programs/full-time-mba/academics/majors-pathways/energy-and-sustainability-pathway.aspx]Energy & Sustainability Pathway[/url].[/*] [/list] 7. University of Michigan Ross School of Business Ross School of Business offers a unique Erb Institute dual-degree program that combines an MBA with a master’s in environmental sustainability or natural resources. This interdisciplinary approach nurtures leaders with a profound grasp of environmental challenges. [list] [*]Learn more about the partnership with the [url=https://michiganross.umich.edu/faculty-research/areas-of-study/sustainability]School for Environment and Sustainability[/url].[/*] [/list] Also offered is a concentration that complements the MBA curriculum, integrating sustainability-focused electives that encourage a holistic consideration of the “triple bottom line”. These supplementary courses equip students with a well-rounded perspective, enabling them to navigate the intricate interplay between business and sustainability. [list] [*]Learn more about the [url=https://michiganross.umich.edu/graduate/full-time-mba/curriculum/specializations/sustainability-concentration]Business and Sustainability Concentration[/url].[/*] [/list] 8. Darden School of Business Darden’s Sustainability Initiative emphasizes experiential learning, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world challenges. The program’s close collaboration with the business community provides opportunities for students to work on practical sustainability projects, fostering a culture of responsible leadership and impactful solutions. Darden’s dedication to creating a sustainable campus environment further reflects its commitment to sustainability values. Darden’s ESG concentration stands out as a comprehensive, practical, and impactful education that equips graduates to lead with sustainability at the forefront, making lasting contributions to both business and society. [list] [*]Learn more about [url=https://www.darden.virginia.edu/sustainability-initiative/curriculum]Darden’s Sustainability Initiative[/url].[/*] [/list] 9. Duke Fuqua School of Business Duke Fuqua’s EDGE Center for Energy, Development, and the Global Environment equips students with tools to drive sustainable innovation. Through experiential learning and diverse coursework, students gain a perspective on integrating sustainability into business strategies. [list] [*]Learn more about the [url=https://centers.fuqua.duke.edu/edge/education/mba-concentrations/]MBA Concentration in Energy & Environment[/url].[/*] [/list] 10. Cornell SC Johnson College of Business With a focus on sustainability, Cornell Johnson offers an array of courses and experiential opportunities in collaboration with the Center for Sustainable Global Enterprise. This equips students to address sustainability challenges from various angles. [list] [*]Learn more about the [url=https://www.johnson.cornell.edu/center-for-sustainable-global-enterprise/students/curriculum/]Sustainable Global Enterprise Curriculum[/url].[/*] [/list] We hope you found these resources helpful to decipher the best MBA programs for sustainability as you navigate your journey towards a sustainability-focused career. If you need further assistance in selecting the ideal MBA program for your goals, click here to [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/request-consultation/]request an initial consultation.[/url] The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/08/24/the-best-mba-programs-for-sustainability/]The Best MBA Programs for Sustainability[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
31 Aug 2023, 12:00
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: Round 1 MBA Application Checklist – Do These Things Before You Submit |
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[img]https://vantagepointmba.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Untitled-design-18-1024x536.png[/img] The last few weeks before the Round 1 MBA application deadlines can be a whirlwind! The team at Vantage Point MBA is here to help. Here is our seven-step Round 1 MBA application checklist to help you get across the finish line: Round 1 MBA Application Checklist [list] [*]Set calendar reminders for each of your target schools. We get it. This sounds dumb. Please do it anyway. Each year we hear from applicants who, despite spending months fine tuning their essays, still manage to miss the deadlines. In some cases, this is due to time zone differences and in others it is due to stressful periods at work. You’ve worked hard to get to this point, don’t miss the Round 1 MBA application deadlines and have to wait until Round 2 ([url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2022/07/14/round-1-vs-round-2/]not that Round 2 is bad[/url], but we’re sure you’re ready to be done!).[/*] [*]Check in with your recommenders. While some schools will be lenient around recommenders missing their delivery dates, it’s best not to tempt fate. Reach out to your recommenders as early as possible to ensure that they are on track (if you haven’t already, make sure to give them talking points and/or explain your story to them) and ask them to give you a heads up when the recs are submitted. Finally, once the recs are on their way, thank them. Send them a [url=https://www.doordash.com/]DoorDash [/url]gift card, flowers, or a bottle of wine…whatever is appropriate but remember that recommenders have put in a lot of work on your behalf.[/*] [*]Take a couple of days off. Seriously, just do it. You have been synthesizing your life’s goals and accomplishments for weeks now, if not longer. Not only do you deserve a break but taking some time off from your apps will allow you to come back with a clear head and a fresh perspective.[/*] [*]Get a second set of eyes. If your essays are “pretty close to done,” then it’s time to get some feedback from a friend or colleague that you trust. When they’re done reading your essays, ask them what the main takeaways are. If their takeaways don’t line up with what you think is in the essays, it’s time to tweak and edit.[/*] [*]Read your essays out loud. You’ll probably want to clear out your apartment for this but take a few minutes and read your essays out loud to yourself. After looking at a screen for hours on end, this is a great exercise to catch any typos and make sure that the essays flow and are readable.[/*] [*]Double check a few crucial things. Make sure that your transcripts, GMAT/GRE scores, and any other materials are ready to go or have already been submitted to your schools.[/*] [*]Take a bow. You’re about to hit “submit” and start your MBA journey. Congratulations on a huge accomplishment and making one of the most important investments that you can – in yourself. Business school is an awesome experience and you’re going to learn a ton. Come what may on decision day, you’ve given it your all, and you deserve to be proud of that.[/*] [/list] Round 1 MBA Application Deadlines [list] [*]Tuck: 9/25 (or 9/1 for a guaranteed interview)[/*] [*]Harvard: 9/6[/*] [*]Wharton: 9/6[/*] [*]Darden: 9/7 for Early Action (either binding or non-binding)[/*] [*]Stanford: 9/12[/*] [*]Yale: 9/12[/*] [*]INSEAD: 9/12[/*] [*]Kellogg: 9/13[/*] [*]Columbia: 9/13[/*] [*]Ross: 9/14[/*] [*]Chicago Booth: 9/21[/*] [*]Sloan: 9/27[/*] [/list] Good luck! After you’ve worked through our Round 1 MBA application checklist, you may also be interested to read: [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2016/09/12/inside-the-black-box-what-happens-after-you-hit-submit/]Inside the Black Box: What Happens After You Hit “Submit” | Vantage Point MBA[/url] [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2022/09/22/mba-interview-prep/]MBA Interview Prep 101 | Vantage Point MBA[/url] The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/08/31/round-1-mba-application-checklist/]Round 1 MBA Application Checklist – Do These Things Before You Submit[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
07 Sep 2023, 10:01
| FROM Vantage Point MBA Admissions Blog: Do MBA Programs Care if You Visit? Demystifying MBA Networking |
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[img]https://vantagepointmba.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Untitled-design-19-1024x536.png[/img] What is MBA networking and why exactly is it important are questions we’re frequently asked by our MBA admissions consulting clients. In an already subjective and sometimes vague process, “networking” can seem particularly abstract or worse, can simply be another “thing” on your long MBA application to-do list. While there’s no hard deliverable attached to networking, we believe it’s a critical part of the MBA application process and now’s the perfect time to get started if you’re applying in Round 2 – current students are back on campus and you still have time before you need to start working on essays in earnest. So, we’ve broken it all down for you here in order to eliminate some of the mystery and ambiguity that surrounds networking. What Is MBA Networking? Let’s start there. It’s easy to be confused about what “networking” even means. Some folks think it’s very transactional or artificial (i.e., schmoozing), where you reach out to someone to “get something” like a favor, information, or introduction to another person. While that may be true for some people, that’s not the approach or attitude that we recommend. Instead, simply put, networking is building relationships. In the case of your MBA applications, it’s building relationships with a variety of folks who are connected to the application process in some way. It’s a two-way street, where you get to know people and they get to know you. Usually, the relationship is initiated because you have something in common – a friend, an interest, a hobby, an employer, etc. – but the relationship is nurtured because you invest in it and because both parties enjoy it and benefit from it. Oh so “networking” is just a fancy way of saying “meeting new people”, right? Well, yes and no. Yes, because that’s often true but no, because you want to be strategic in your approach. By that I mean that you want to invest your efforts in building relationships with folks who can help guide, mentor, and inform your MBA application process. For instance, a former classmate from undergrad who’s a first-year student at HBS. By connecting with her, you’re sure to gain some valuable insights and advice about the school, its culture, essay tips, etc. And who knows, maybe she’s recruiting at your company for a post-MBA role, and you can share your experience with her in return. Why Is MBA Networking Important? Still skeptical as to why networking for your MBA applications is so important? Here are a few things to consider. If your competition (i.e., other applicants) is networking and leveraging all the resources at their disposal to help inform and strengthen their applications and you’re not, you risk losing out. For an even better reason that doesn’t involve “because everyone else is doing it”, networking can help you put together a more cohesive and compelling application, which in turn increases your chances of admission to your dream MBA program. Let’s dig into how that can be. First and foremost, networking is an opportunity to discover new things about a school that can help solidify your fit and answer to “why X school”. Trust us, a thoughtful and well-researched answer to this question can be the difference that gets you admitted. Most of the time, that kind of information can’t be found on a website. Networking is also a tremendous opportunity to get valuable advice from folks who have been in your shoes. Learn about the unexpected benefits of an MBA from a recent graduate, learn from past MBA students’ mistakes, and get admissions “tips” from folks who have insight into the process. The advice you get along the way can help make the process more efficient, straightforward, or at least slightly less stressful for you. Lastly, the MBA application process can seem like a long, lonely journey and it’s nice to feel supported along the way. My clients are usually blown away (I know I was) by how supportive and helpful current students, alums, colleagues with MBAs, etc. are once they find out you’re pursuing an MBA. MBA’s love to pay-it-forward, so let them! Just be sure to be appreciative and stay in touch with them once you have news about decisions so they can remain invested in your journey. MBA Networking – What Not to Do It should go without saying that all social etiquette rules apply in MBA application networking but just as a quick refresher, here are a few key “DON’Ts”. DON’T wait until the last minute: networking is not an on-off switch and should be approached like a marathon, not a sprint. Building relationships, scheduling coffee chats, etc. takes time. So, start early – like now! Give yourself space to follow-up with your new contacts and keep in touch with them throughout the process. Waiting until two days before the deadline to reach out to a current student with a list of questions whose answers you will plug into your “why school X” essay will not do you any favors. DON’T ask basic or shallow questions: when you’ve finally nailed down that coffee with an alum from your dream school, don’t waste their time asking questions with answers you could easily find on your own. Instead, come with thoughtful questions whose answers will truly further your understanding of how the school fits with your goals and objectives. (Here’s a more comprehensive [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2019/04/16/which-mba-program-is-right-for-you-use-our-mba-fit-tool-to-find-out/]school selection tool[/url] if you’re just getting started.) You want the other person to be impressed with your level of research because who knows, they may end up being an advocate for your candidacy if they also feel like you’re the right fit for their school! DON’T be disrespectful or ungrateful for the other person’s time: MBA students, alums, representatives from admissions, etc. are all very busy and while they’re happy to help, it takes effort on their part. So be sure to express your gratitude for their time and input. If they tell you they can only spare 20 minutes, remain vigilant of the time and wrap up accordingly. Those manners will go a long way in leaving a good impression. How To Get Started Networking With all that said, there’s really isn’t a wrong way to start building your network. In thinking about what the ideal network looks like, it’s comprised of current students and/or alums from your target schools, colleagues/former classmates/mentors, etc. with MBAs, and people in your target post-MBA industry/function. (Note that these three categories are not mutually exclusive – most likely one person will fall into more than one bucket.) An easy place to start is with your existing network – people from work, undergrad, personal circles, etc. who have MBA’s or are somehow connected to an MBA program. Make a list of these individuals and start reaching out to them for a Zoom chat, after-work cocktail, etc. Be present during these conversations and take mental note of what you discussed. If you chatted about a particular current event or recent trend in your industry, for example, send that person an article on the relevant topic a couple of weeks later to show that you give as well as receive. After each meeting, be sure to ask that person to connect you with someone else from his/her network who could be helpful in your application process. Then repeat. Lastly, you can take advantage of third-party platforms and events to further build out your network. LinkedIn, MBA forums ([url=https://www.reddit.com/r/MBA/]reddit[/url], [url=https://gmatclub.com/]GMAT Club[/url], [url=https://gmatclub.com/forum/?href=]Beat the GMAT[/url], etc.), and formal networking events (Poets & Quants’ CentreCourt Festival is October 3rd & 4th; [url=https://www.accessmba.com/l/eEU]Access MBA has some great in-person events[/url] in various cities in the next month or two) are all great places to engage if you feel like your network is a bit sparse. So, Do MBA Programs Care if You Visit? Even if some of the folks above are current students or graduates from your target schools, you should also plan to engage with the schools directly. A great way to do this is through a campus visit, ideally coordinated through the school so you have a chance to sit in on a class and meet current students in addition to sitting through a presentation from admissions. If a school visit isn’t possible, plan to attend at least one virtual information session or webinar. These are great opportunities to hear what the schools believe are their selling points while giving you a chance to ask questions. Current students as well as representatives from admissions typically host these events so it’s a great time to initiate a dialogue with a few of them. Those conversations could even turn into a follow-up meeting or call, depending on how well you connect. Not only will engaging with the schools in as many ways as possible help you determine which programs are the right fit for you and why, but it indicates to the admission committee that you’re serious about their program and have made the effort to get to know it. Some schools make this a critical part of their admissions decisions so it’s worth putting in the time (i.e., more is more!). It’s ultimately up to you to find your own personal style of networking that makes you feel comfortable and authentic, but rest assured that doing this right will only contribute to stronger applications. Interested in personalized, best-in-class coaching for your Round 2 MBA applications? [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/initial-vpa-consultation/]Click here[/url] to request an initial consultation. The post [url=https://vantagepointmba.com/2023/09/07/mba-networking-2/]Do MBA Programs Care if You Visit? Demystifying MBA Networking[/url] appeared first on [url=https://vantagepointmba.com]Vantage Point MBA[/url]. |
