In the highly competitive world of MBA applications, your GMAT score and resume are just the beginning. To truly stand out, you need to go beyond the numbers and show admissions committees who you are and why you belong at their school. A key part of this strategy is engaging in meaningful pre-application conversations with the very people who can provide invaluable insights into a program’s culture and values.
1. Connect with Admissions Committees
Think of the admissions committee (AdCom) as the gatekeepers to your dream school. They are the best source of information for understanding what makes an ideal candidate. Reaching out to them isn’t about getting an unfair advantage; it’s about demonstrating genuine interest and a proactive approach to your future.
How to Engage: You can find contact information and opportunities to connect on the school’s website, at info sessions, or through webinars. When you reach out, be prepared. Have a clear, concise introduction and a few well-thought-out questions. Instead of asking for information you can easily find online, inquire about what qualities they seek in a successful applicant or what unique challenges students in their program have recently overcome. Remember to take good notes; these details can be used to tailor your essays and interview responses later on.
2. Learn from Current Students
The campus tour and official website can only tell you so much. To get a real feel for a school, you need to hear directly from those living the experience. Current students are your best resource for unfiltered information on academic life, the social scene, and a program’s true culture.
How to Engage: Utilize school websites and professional social media platforms like LinkedIn to find and connect with current students. Attend student-led events or webinars if available. Ask questions about the day-to-day life of an MBA student, the rigor of the curriculum, and the support systems in place. You can also ask them for advice on the application process from a student’s perspective. Their insights will help you determine if your personality and goals align with the school’s vibe.
3. Tap into the Alumni Network
While current students provide a snapshot of the present, alumni offer a window into the future. They are living proof of a program’s value and can provide incredible insight into career paths, industry connections, and the long-term benefits of an MBA from that institution.
How to Engage: Leverage alumni networks and LinkedIn to identify individuals who have followed a career path you aspire to. Ask them about how the school’s curriculum prepared them for their current role, the strength of the alumni network, and any advice they would give to someone looking to follow in their footsteps. Their feedback can help you strengthen your essays and articulate a clear vision for your post-MBA career.
Why This Matters
These conversations are not just for gathering information; they are part of your application. They show your commitment, your diligence, and your fit with the school. The notes you take from these conversations will become the foundation of your application, giving you specific details to weave into your essays and interview answers, proving that you’ve done your homework.
The MBA application process can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. ARINGO MBA Admissions Consulting offers comprehensive support, helping you with everything you need for your MBA applications. Contact us today for a free profile evaluation.
For more detailed insights on the pre-application conversation, watch our full webinar:
