The Application Process

Hello,

I want to apply to Ross round 1 but because of a ridiculous wedding season won't be able to make it before then. Do they strongly prefer applicants visit ahead of time, or are they OK with just attending events in local cities (in my case, New York)? Would it behoove me to wait until the 2nd round and visit campus first, even though I already know I want to go there?

Thanks!

This whole visit the campus thing. How important is it? And what does one seek to do when one visits a B school campus?

Thanks a lot!

Visit the schools (I highly recommend attending each school's on-campus events for prospective and admitted students) and get a feel for your potential future classmates. After all,these are the people with whom you may spend the next two years. Sit in on a class (even if you already did so months ago), and ask yourself if you could see yourself participating in the discussion. Yes, this sounds subjective, but your experience at bschool will largely depend on how well you fit the culture, and vice versa.

On campus: Most interviews with admissions personnel and students take place on campus. The bottom line is that you should try your best to get to campus to do your interview. It might seem minor, especially because many schools make off-campus interviews readily available, but visiting campus goes a long way in showing your interest in the school (especially if you live far away). you can always mention that you also had a visit few days back to show your seriousness.

That was very helpful. Thanks a ton!