University of Michigan's Ross School of Business Admissions

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What are my chances on getting into the ROSS School of Business at U of M - Ann Arbor?
Secondly, I still have to take my GMAT, should I take a class before I take the test or should I buy a few books and study?

Here is my background:
I spent three years in the Army after high school. I have an Associates Degree in General Studies from a community college (3.7 GPA). Recently graduated with an BS in Electrical Engineering from University of Michigan Dearborn with a 3.28 GPA (took 6 years total because I worked all the way through college). I have 3 years of Co-op experience, and I now currently work as an Electrcial Engineer for the same employer that I was a Co-op for.
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by Lisa Anderson » Fri Feb 15, 2008 6:48 pm
Dear sbradford48195:

You will absolutely need to score well on the GMAT. Think about how you learn best to determine if a prep course is a good fit for you. Some folks need a classroom environment with the accountability and others are fine with self-direction. It is critical that you practice with computer-based tests either way to get comfortable with how the test is administered and familiar with the GMAT-style of questions.

As for the rest of your application, you should talk about your path from the military to college and what you have learned from those experiences in addition to your professional work experience. My guess is you have strong leadership examples you can highlight in your essays and through your recommendations.

If you are in the area, make yourself known (in a positive way) to the admissions staff in Ann Arbor now. Visit campus, ask to attend a class, meet with current students, etc., to show your interest and commitment to attending Ross.

Best of luck to you!
Lisa
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Close To MBA Campus

by GoBruins » Mon Feb 18, 2008 3:08 pm
Hello,

I was reading above, and notice what you said about using proximity to campus as an advantage. Would visiting classes work for UCLA as well. How would you approach the school.

Brian

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Close To MBA Campus

by GoBruins » Mon Feb 18, 2008 3:22 pm
Hello,

I was reading above, and notice what you said about using proximity to campus as an advantage. Would visiting classes work for UCLA as well. How would you approach the school.

Brian

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by Lisa Anderson » Mon Feb 18, 2008 6:34 pm
Dear Brian:

It is always helpful, for both the school and you, to visit a program you are considering. The best way for you to educate yourself on the programs and get an idea of their culture is to visit in person, attend a class, and speak with current students. Sometimes a program looks perfect for you on paper (as in the website, the rankings, etc.) but when you visit you aren't comfortable with some aspect of the school. Perhaps it isn't as collaborative an environment as you want or the size is too big. Likewise, visitng a program can confirm that it is a great fit for you and will allow you to incorporate your observations in your essays and interview.

As for the school, it is always helpful for the staff to meet candidates at several opportunities to really get to know them beyond the application and interview. If you are close to UCLA or can afford to visit campus, I highly recommend contacting them to set up a visit.

Regards,
Lisa
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