Enhancing Your MBA Application Amid Exam Prep
Embarking on the journey to attain an MBA is exciting and challenging, with a significant hurdle being the GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment. While exam preparation should be a cornerstone of your plan, and we recommend studying for several months, it's vital to remember that it's just one component of a successful MBA application. There are many other parallel activities to participate in that will significantly enhance your application and boost your chances of admission.
Engage With Your Community
It's no secret that MBA applicants studying for the GMAT and working full-time are very busy. Consider opportunities within your current schedule that align with your interests and don't require a hefty time commitment. For example, you could lead an employee resource group, offer mentorship to an intern, spearhead a social initiative, or volunteer for a local group that holds activities during weekends. Engaging in industry-specific clubs or organizations also shows a proactive attitude toward your career interests. Involvement in these areas highlights a well-rounded character, showcasing your ability to manage time effectively and your drive to contribute to the broader community.
Network
As part of your preparation, seek out current students and alums of your targeted schools and talk to them about their experiences. LinkedIn is a great resource! Also, attend online information sessions held by the programs. While not a direct application component, these interactions can enrich your understanding and prepare you to write a compelling story of why you belong at the school.
Update Your Resume
Your resume is a snapshot of your professional journey and achievements. If you have taken on new responsibilities at work, highlight your key accomplishments and quantify results where possible to demonstrate impact. Tailor your resume to emphasize qualities that MBA programs look for, such as initiative, leadership, problem-solving, and ambition.
Outline Your Story
Admissions committees want to understand who you are beyond your scores and resume. As you prepare for the admissions test, reflect on your experiences, values, and aspirations, and begin crafting your personal story. Identify key themes in your life and what unique perspectives can differentiate you from the MBA competition. Instead of stating facts about yourself, connect the dots and convey the journey meaningfully and intentionally. This will be crucial for your essays and interviews, helping you present a cohesive, authentic, and compelling narrative.
Develop a Strategy
Mark your calendars!! The deadlines and required application materials differ for each school, so familiarize yourself and formulate a game plan. Along with balancing the admissions exam and your full-time work, you will also need time for essays, recommendation letters, interviews, and possibly school visits. Create a timeline and set attainable goals to stay organized and ensure you're prepared for each step of the application process.
Stay Informed on Business Trends
Keeping up-to-date with current trends in the business world will prepare you for potential interview topics and show the admissions committee that you are actively engaged in your chosen field. Reading business news, attending industry events, and joining relevant professional groups will also enrich your classroom discussions when attending the programs! Additionally, subscribing to the newsletters of your target programs will ensure you avoid missing any important updates or announcements.
Meet With an Admissions Advisor
Need help managing everything? We'll provide valuable insights into what schools are looking for, build your personalized timeline, analyze your profile, and help you execute all application components successfully. Our 1:1 coaching is tailored to your unique situation, and we provide support throughout the entire MBA admissions journey. Book a free consultation with us!
While studying for the GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment is crucial, it's equally important to remember that an MBA application is multifaceted. Diversifying your focus beyond the exam will provide more comprehensive preparation and increase your chances of a successful application.
