Your Non-Traditional Background is Just What MBA Programs Need
A major misconception of many is that in order to attend business school, you must have a background in consulting for finance. However, this misconception is just that-a misconception- as having a non-traditional background by no means makes you less qualified for the program. Believe it or not, your unique background can give you an advantage during the application process.
Business schools are looking for evidence of your potential and ability to foster growth both personally and professionally. This could be expressed in many forms from personal accomplishments, business achievements to community commitments. Whether you come from a non-profit, fashion, tech, or any other background, utilize this advice to help you use your non-traditional experience to leverage your business school application:
Use Your Story To Add Value
The most common way to add value to your application is through your essays. These essays are a great place for you to elaborate on areas where you’ve demonstrated leadership, problem-solved, or excelled, and detail how those experiences influenced your professional endeavors. As you navigate other areas of the business school application, treat each section as a window of opportunity into your unique experience. Take advantage of all the available space to expand on your roles, skills and accomplishments. Keep your responses impactful and to the point and be sure not to exclude any important information. For example, you can use the “additional information” box at the end of the application to expand upon and address gaps in your application or provide further explanation to a matter previously discussed.
Show Aptitude
The most prominent business schools function in a fast-paced, oft-challenging environment. Your second task is to show the admissions officers that although you don’t carry the same experience as an applicant with a traditional background, you are prepared and have the ability to be an active participant in a variety of contexts. You can use your academic performance and test results from GMAT or GRE to prove your aptitude to understand analytical and quantitative concepts. If you are not a strong test taker, consider strengthening your profile by taking other courses or certifications such as the CFA exam, extended coursework on statistics, or others. The admissions officers want to know how your unorthodox experience makes you a better candidate than an applicant with a traditional background.
Exude Enthusiasm
Business schools are looking for individuals who are enthusiastic and want to be a part of their program. Simply liking a program or wanting to go to business school because of its status is not nearly enough. You have to be able to answer, “Why business school?” and more importantly, “Why this program?” As a non-traditional candidate you need to use your application to specifically demonstrate how business school will help you achieve your goal. In addition, you should also include what you will contribute to the business school’s community.
According to Harvard Business School, “The right candidates must be eager to share their experiences, support their colleagues, and teach as well as learn from their peers.” MBA programs are looking for candidates that have diverse skills, accomplishments and abilities.
Remember, even the top business schools do not have a one-size-fits-all type of mold when vetting applicants. If you have a unique background that would be best nurtured by obtaining a business degree, don’t allow your non-traditional experiences to hold you back from applying. You should embrace your unique experiences and ambitions; because the truth is business schools are looking for diverse, motivated candidates just like you.
At Ivy Advisors, let us help you discover your unique strengths and guide you through your entire application process, so your non-traditional experience is coveted by admissions officers.
