Don’t Be a Delusional MBA Candidate

by Stacy Blackman Consulting, Aug 8, 2013

As you continue your business school research and narrow down your list of favorites, there are several things to keep in mind throughout the process. Here are my eight suggestions for cutting through the clutter to determine which MBA program truly is the best fit for you and your career path.

1. Rankings are not tattoos, they aren't permanent.

The best MBA program in the country might not be the best program for you. Choose where to apply based on the No. 1 school FOR YOU. Thats the only ranking that really matters, and its the only ranking that isnt temporary. Know what the best schools are, but only apply if theyre the best for you.

2. Don't round up.

You know those average numbers and admit profiles the schools send out or post on their website? Yeah, those. Read them! Be honest about where you fall. If youre under the bar, the school is a reach. Its great to shoot for the stars, but not okay to bank on them.

3. Size matters.

Or does it? Compile a list of what matters to YOU. Youre the one going to business school. So be honest and be specific about what youre looking for in a business school program. Then become an expert in the programs that offer what YOU need.

4. Get real!

When youre applying to b-school, everyones going to have an opinion on where you should be applying. But since they dont have to get in, its important for you to get real with yourself. Ultimately, the opinion that really matters is yours.

5. B-school is not a blind date.

Whenever possible, go visit the schools. Sometimes what you see online and in a brochure is nothing like what youre actually going to get on campus.

6. Yes, you do want to fit in!

B-school can be long and lonely if youre not a fit with the school culture. Talk to alums and current students. Get a feel for the school and get a feel for the types of students on campus. Youre going to be in the trenches together. You want to feel like your colleagues are your people.

7. You should be dazzled.

Go to info sessions for target schools and ask real questions. This is their time to impress you.

8. Consider the source.

Online reviews can be super helpful, but consider the source. Its possible that the person writing the business school review is either a current student who thinks their school is the best or a disgruntled applicant who didnt quite make the cut. Get as much information on each school as possible, but dont get sucked in. And if a source is anonymous, go ahead and question or ignore the opinion.

This post originally appeared as the second installment of a new seriesB-School Admissions Tips You Cant Live Withouton the MBA websitePoets & Quants.

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If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, Stacy Blackman Consulting can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Contact us to learn more.