Ask Stacy Blackman

Dear Amy - just a couple of random questions

- For recommendation letters, does it help if the recommender has a management degree (provided he knows the applicant well?)
- Which round should an International student typically target. I know we should apply "whenever we're ready", but I think I might be able to apply to Wharton/Columbia if I stretch myself a little.
- Also I am an female Indian applicant, working in UAE for the past 1.5 yrs. I worked in the hospitality consulting space, so in that sense I am an "atypical" candidate (I am not an engineer, and have no technical background). In terms of the relevant applicant pool (Indian applicants), would it be advisable to apply for the First Round? I have heard that Round 2 is when the colleges try to round out their candidate spread. Is that correct?

Thanks for all your help!

There's a sticky thread about 'applying R1 Vs R2'

For schools like Columbia apply as early as you can since they have rolling admissions...

Wharton usually take bunch of Indians,.. Amy knows better
over to you Amy.

Hi Cybermusings,

It sounds like you have some great experience and background to contribute, and being female without a tech background is more atypical.

I would refer to the sticky thread on R1 vs R2 for more information on that.

As far as an MBA helps the recommender to understand the process and what schools are looking for well, that's great, but I don't think it makes a huge difference to their credibility. Keep in mind that many, many recommenders will have an MBA.

Good luck!

Amy