Dmitry76: Most schools say that they look at an applicant's community involvement as well. What exactly are they looking for when they say this? Is it just any volunteer work or demonstrated leadership?
Brown: It's possible that work limits your ability to demonstrate leadership, so your extracurricular activities and community service can illustrate that you're well rounded. Community service and extracurricular activity show you have interests beyond work and can contribute to the MBA community and be compassionate.
mbadin44: How do businesses in America view a degree from an international business school such as China Europe International Business School in China?
Richmond: In the future, business schools such as CEIBS and others may become significant players. However, at this point American businesses are most familiar with American business schools. This is even a continuous struggle for the more-established schools in Europe.
ScoobySteph: In searching for an admissions consultant, what should someone look for to distinguish among the number of companies that offer such services?
Richmond: In choosing an admissions consultant, one should look at the qualifications of those providing the service. It's also important to look at the type of service they are providing -- some companies assign you a dedicated counselor throughout the process. At Clear Admit, we think it's important to understand the process from several angles (MBA graduate, applicant, and admissions officer).
BWO: How can potential MBA students stand out from the large pool of applicants?
Brown: I think the critical issue for each applicant is to be truly introspective such that each will identify his or her own unique characteristics that help him or her stand out. Many applicants try to be something that they are not, which will most often fail.
NathanGen: How should applicants prepare for the interview?
Richmond: Preparation is critical to success in the interview process. In terms of what sort of preparation, it all depends on how the individual school is using the interview in the admissions process, as well as how the school conducts its interviews. For any interview, the important things are to know yourself, your application, and the school with which you're interviewing -- and practice.
timboly: Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College offers interviews to all applicants. They also have invitation-only interviews. Would it be advisable to initiate the interview or wait for the invitation?
Richmond: Initiate.
dftodc: What programs would you recommend to someone interested in entrepreneurship in the nonprofit and for-profit sectors alike?
Richmond: You should be looking for schools that are strong in entrepreneurial and nonprofit management. The best way to identify fit with these schools is to contact leaders in the nonprofit management club and the entrepreneurial club, and look at the Web sites for those academic departments as well. Also, get a sense of the alumni activity in these fields.
rohitprabhu: I have about four years of experience in the IT industry and wish to get into marketing. What is the biggest challenge faced by a person who wishes to make a career change?
Brown: It will be important to justify the change. You should consider whether you want to change function and industry. For example, doing marketing in the IT sector might be an easier transition than marketing in the CPG sector. It will be important to make connections from your previous experiences for your new career plan. But many people go to B-school to change careers.
texaspunk: I have 11 years of significant experience, but I cannot seem to break 70% in quant (but can get 88% in verbal) on the GMAT. What weight does Wharton put on the GMAT for entrance into the EMBA?
Richmond: If you've demonstrated strong quantitative abilities elsewhere in your profile, then you should just move on and focus on the rest of the application. EMBA programs tend to be a bit more flexible with this element of one's profile.
BellaGirl02: What is your advice on the different rounds, specifically Round 1 (R1) vs. Round 2 (R2)?
Brown: First I'd like to dispel a common myth: It's not easier to get in during R2 vs. R1. It's important to apply early -- but only if your application is ready. Don't apply R1 if it means rushing the process. Also, avoid the last rounds if at all possible.
pomposo: I'm an undergrad looking to transfer to USC. In the business world, what's more important -- where you completed your undergraduate business studies or where you receive your MBA?
Richmond: This is a sequential process, meaning that your undergraduate degree may have some impact on where you gain your first employment, which may in turn affect where you get your MBA, which may in turn affect where you end up in the business world in the long run.
segalo: I was told by a friend who's a graduate of Wharton that having completed the [Certified Financial Analyst exam] might be more of a hindrance than an asset. What do you think?
Brown: No matter what your background, you will need to justify why you are pursuing this degree. Having a CFA demonstrates commitment to your field, so from that perspective it can be positive.
mdimova: European or American MBA?
Brown: It depends on your goals, where you may wish to work and live in the long run. There is also a difference between one- and two-year programs. Many of the European schools are one year in length. If you are a career changer, in need of an internship, then the two-year option is likely a better fit.
BWO: Any parting advice for applicants?
Richmond: Be introspective and thoughtful, make sure your application is the best possible representation of you, and do your research on the schools by talking to current students and alumni. Make sure you budget time for the process. Get feedback from those who know you and those who don't.
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