Feedback Sessions
It’s great that so many schools are now offering feedback sessions. It’s further support for the idea that reapplicants are welcome, encouraged, and quite often successful. Wharton has even claimed that reapplicants have a slight edge in the applicant pool. So – sign up for feedback sessions whenever you can, and make the most of your time.
Because your time will be limited, it’s important to prepare in advance of the session. Write down a few pointed questions that will help you make the most of your meeting. If there is anything you questioned throughout the process, now is your chance to clear things up. Note that there is an art to extracting information. It is doubtful that a member of the admissions committee will tell you flat out that you are NOT qualified. Nor will they tell you to change your life plans, just for the sake of the application. In order to gather real information, your questions should sound something like this:
- Was there any concern about my quantitative abilities? If so, what can I do to demonstrate my capabilties?
- Were my career goals clear?
- Are my reasons for wanting an MBA sound?
- What were some of the biggest weaknesses in my application? Do you have any suggestions for how I can ease your concerns in those areas?
Don’t expect to receive the secret key to success; take what you can get and do not beg too much for information. Keep in mind that this is one additional opportunity to build a relationship, so be pleasant, engaging and polite. Treat this as an extension of your interview, and don’t forget to follow up with a thank you note.
For some insights direct from the Wharton adcomm, read their Reflections on MBA Feedback Sessions.
