MBA Tour & how to effectively use it?

Question

Hi Friends,
 I have registered for MBA Tour which happens this weekend in Bangalore, where I get a chance to meet representatives from several MBA schools worldwide.
I have just started preparing for GMAT & haven't thought much about schools yet.
I wish I completed my GMAT by now.

I would like to get your feedback /input on how to effectively use this opportunity.
Like what sort of Questions/Information can I seek.

I appreciate your inputs...

pls reply

mirfan2 · Answer

If you take the GMAT by end of October or early November, you should still be in good shape. Research the schools website, try show that you know about their program and ask specific questions about school's culture, curriculum etc. You may also ask specific questions about the admissions process, anything other than GMAT or GPA average (which is mentioned or their website) should be fine . Talk about essay questions, I got some essay tips from the admissions director at Cornell. Bottom line, if you go prepared it may leave a much better impression on the Admission officer and shows that you're really serious about their program

javamonk · Answer

Thanks mirfan2

BigRedEnvEng · Answer

Keep an open mind. Talk to reps at all the colleges in which you have any interest at all. There were a couple of schools that I had pretty much discounted and then when I went to the MBA tour last weekend I spoke with the reps and was really impressed. The opposite was true as well (schools that I was considering and when I found out more about the school, I realized that it wasn't for me).

I'm not sure if this would apply to the tour in Bangalore, but most people were in business dress at the San Francisco event. If it fits in with the culture there, err on the side of over dressing.

I agree with mirfan, come prepared with questions for the programs in which you're definitely interested. Not only will it leave a good impression, but you'll get some useful information that will help you with your decision and with your application process.

Listen in on other conversations. Some of the tables get really crowded. Don't get discouraged; walk up and listen to the questions that the other attendees are asking. There's a good chance you'll either get answers to some of your questions or you'll get answers to questions you hadn't thought of asking. Win-win situation.

If they have a one-on-one event prior to the fair, check out the schools involved and sign up. It'll give you an opportunity to speak with a rep one-on-one.

mirfan2 · Answer

BigRedEnvEng has made some really excellent points. I had my conservative blue pinstripe suit on for the event, so dress to impress is a detail that shouldn't be overlooked as it shows that you've come prepared.

Jacoby · Answer

Questions to ask:
Research schools beforehand to get a basic understanding of their program and student demographics. The rule of thumb is pretty much ask any questions that you can't find online. You would be surprised to hear how basic/blunt some people's questions are, like "I have XXX GMAT score, can I get in?" Ask interesting questions i.e. what's student life like? What are popular extracurricular activities students do? What are the neighboring towns like? Not only will the answers to these questions give you a better understanding of what a school/program is like or reveal some appealing features to you, but it's also refreshing for the school representatives to have an interesting question that they can share their viewpoint about.

Dress:
Seems like the other replies know what to wear. Dress business formal. Wear a suit (men) or the equivalent of a suit (women) and act professional. You want to impress the representatives at the fair and stand out from the rest of the crowd. It's also a good idea to have copies of your resume and business cards if you have them – if you don't hand them out then no biggie, but if you do it really makes a good impression. Also, ALWAYS ask whoever you speak to for their contact information. Ask for a business card and send them a "thank you" email 24 hours after you meet them.

Talk to everyone you can, be courteous, be professional. Before you go to an event, ask yourself, "what do I want to take away from this event?" and make sure you try to get what you want from it.

MBA Tour & how to effectively use it?

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