North Star recently turned 12, and in this week’s advice column I want to answer one of the big questions that I have been asked most frequently over the years: “What’s the secret to getting into a top business school?” Essentially, it all boils down to self-awareness, personality and the ability to get real.
- First, figure out why you really want an MBA.
Honestly, do you just need a break from work for 2 years? Do your parents expect you to get the degree, and you don’t want to let them down? Are you totally confused about what you want to do professionally, but clear about the fact that you want to make as much money as possible? Seriously, even though you likely can’t be this direct with the admissions committee, the process will go better if you are honest with yourself. (And be sure to articulate genuine (or at least plausible) goals.)
- Don’t get too hung up on the rankings.
Most of my clients go to M7 schools. I totally get it – an MBA is a huge investment, both literally and in terms of opportunity cost, and the ROI needs to make sense. However, the most successful applicants look beyond rankings to figure out their personal ROI. Rankings can be manipulated, and they aren’t an absolute referendum on prestige or value. Cultural fit is important, as is the ability to get a job afterwards. Depending on your profile, the best school for you might not be the highest ranked.
- Don’t ignore the interpersonal aspect.
Your personality actually matters in this process. When I was the Associate Director of Admissions at Tuck, I was always alert for clues about what an applicant was truly like as a person. The entire process is designed to elicit this information, from the interview to essay questions about your value system and ability/desire to help other people. Recommenders are asked to basically vouch for your ability to get along with others, among other qualities. One of the biggest ways that you can move the needle in your quest to get into a top business school is by demonstrating that you are a decent person. Help the committee understand that you are someone that they really want in the class, by letting your personality shine through your materials. (Also, be sure to interact politely with current students and alums, and send your interviewer a thank you note.)
- Get real about your profile.
Although getting into a top business school is truly about more than grades and test scores, which many of my clients who have gotten into M7 with below average numbers can attest to, you still need to be realistic about your profile. If your numbers are low, what can you do to convince the schools that you can handle the work, and that you are worth the hit to their class profile? If you don’t have much work experience, have switched jobs 11 times in two years or have been unemployed for a long stretch, address it head on. Be sure to get in front of potential issues – the committee will respect your insight and ability to address their concerns proactively.
If getting into a top business school is your goal, set yourself apart from the competition through reflection and authenticity. Remember that the top ranked school might not be the best fit for you, and make sure the schools understand that you, personally, will be an asset.
