MBA admissions and jobs in the US

Students have been advised to do extensive research and proper homework on B-Schools before they apply

The MBA Tour, a consortium of some of the reputed B-Schools of North America, Asia and Europe, recently conducted its information dissemination workshop in the city.

Two workshops were conducted on -- admission decisions of B-schools and managing career in US after MBA. The panellists provided quite a few important insights on GMAT, admission process and job dynamics.

On the GMAT exam, the panellists emphasised on sound command over the English language. Aspirants were asked to write the analytical essay in clear English. According to panellists, it is imperative to apply in the first cycle as students can have a faster decision on admission and stand a better chance of getting funding. Students were suggested to do extensive research and proper homework on B-Schools before they apply. Brijender Marweh, representative of College of William and Mary, said that seriousness of the candidate reflects in the application. “You should be able to give the reason why you have opted for a particular programme and a particular school, otherwise you cannot be taken seriously,” he said. Having campus visits, talking to alumni and reading available literature could be few best methods that work, he said.

Franccsca Roveda of Bocconi University, Italy, stated that GMAT score doesn’t determine the admission process completely, although it was one of the prime pre-requisites. The application form, academic record, recommendation letters, GMAT score, work experience and the sector of work -- all the components have their own importance. “For example, if you are from non-profit sector, it gives little advantage against the candidates from most represented sections such as software engineers since the B-schools look for diversity,” she said.

Students were also asked to maintain consistency in application form and interviews since most of the questions would be asked on the information furnished in the application form. The candidates who were managing their family business were suggested to get the recommendation letters from third parties such vendors and customers.

Job search

On job search, panellists stated that it is important to cultivate good relations with people in the industry, particularly the alumni, through various fora. C.J. Fonzi of Cornell University said that 65 per cent jobs in the US get filled up before they are notified and it is important for students to develop relations in the sector they want to work.

For those who want to shift their function and sector, it is important to do the internships of 8 to 10 weeks period with industry and companies they are looking forward to work with.