Work Experience Dilemma

Hello saygan,

Thanks for posting these questions! Regarding your first two questions, the single overarching thing that matters most is that you pursue and build upon your personal strengths and interests, regardless of what department or startup sector that leads you to join. Far and away, in our decade-plus of experience advising MBA applicants, we've found that AdComs are drawn to candidates who clearly express authentic passion for whatever work they do -- when it's real, it shines through in the essays, the letters of recommendation, and even in the resume to an extent. Rather than asking what department or sector you ought to join to maximize your chances of MBA admission a few years from now, your point of departure should be: "What department do I think I would really thrive in, based on my skills and my talents? What startup sector most intrigues me and offers the most growth potential in my opinion?"

Regarding your third question, absolutely, any experience managing a business (whether it's a side business of your own or a business unit within a company where you're employed) will be viewed as very valuable by AdComs. Anything that provides evidence of your ability as a promising future business leader will boost your chances of admission! Moreover, enthusiasm, persistence, and resourcefulness are all qualities that AdComs value, so starting your own business is a great way to demonstrate that you have those qualities in spades.

Best,

Doris