MIT interview invitation

Question

hi guys...I was invited to an interview. I think Rod Garcia wil himself interview me. But there is a problem. 
I live in BAKU/Azerbaijan. But he invited me to Istanbul/Turkey. Very far.
I want to change the place to at least Georgia. What will you advise?
 Do you think that it is worth to ask for change or phone interview?

Also, it it logical to ask for compensating my travel and hotel costs?

scottshrum · Answer

First of all, congrats!

It's reasonable to ask for a change if you can't make it. But remember that it's a very competitive market, and that what is a minor inconvenience to you could be an opportunity for another applicant to show tha he's more interested. So, still try to interview with someone in person, if at all possible. Doing so shows that you're truly interested.

I wouldn't ask for travel reimbursement. That would send the wrong message. I don't know of an applicant ever being reimbursed for travel. Keep in mind that they've traveled very far, too...

Scott

MBA Wolf · Answer

Thanks Scott. I don't want to lose this chance, so I will do everything to go there. I have another question.

I am college senior. And recently I recieved an offer from Investment fund located in London - The Sturgeon Fund. They wanted to invest in my country, and offered me a job. 
I know that as a college senior my chances are quite low. So, I want to tell Rod Garcia that if admitted I would be eager to work at that company for 1-2 years, and then start my education. As I know MIT Sloan offers deferred admission to college seniors.

What do you advise? Is mentionig the recent offer good or bad for me? 

Best,
Wolf

scottshrum · Answer

Yes, I think it's worth it. We normally advise applicants to get a couple of years of work experience before applying, so I think it's a good idea. MIT may even advise that you do the same thing.

Scott

MBA Wolf · Answer

Thanks Scott. You helped me a lot.
In fact before the invitation came I thought that I will be rejected because of my lack of full-time work experience. But it seems tham my GMAT score(750), GPA, learsehip experiences and maybe country (Azerbaijan) helped me.
So, what will you advise me to emphasize during interview. I think Rod Garcia himself will interview me. 

Best,
Wolf

scottshrum · Answer

Well, it sounds like you have a feel for what your biggest perceived weakness will be -- maturity. Be ready for questions about your lack of experience, and more specifically, your lack of specific experiences, like leadership, overcoming adversity, etc. Ans also expect that he'll focus a lot on "Why do you want an MBA *now*, rather than 3 or 4 years from now?" 

Scott

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