Top Ten Blog Posts-July 2020 Edition
Wondering which blog posts this year’s crop of MBA applicants visits the most on the Stacy Blackman Consulting site? We were, too! Thanks to modern technology—AKA Google analytics—you now have the news you need right at your fingertips. Without further ado… SBC’s top ten most-visited blog posts for the second quarter of 2020.
The COVID Round
Coronavirus Admissions Update for Round 3
There is a lot of uncertainty worldwide as we grapple with the COVID-19 outbreak. For business schools, that has meant adapting to meet the circumstances of MBA applicants. Many MBA programs chose to extend Round 3 deadlines, some as far as mid-summer, to accommodate last-minute submissions.
Application Strategies Worth Noting
Character Prevails: Stanford & HarvardBusiness School MBA Applications
Have you heard of the term “double admits”? That’s what we call those singular applicants who receive admissions offers from both Harvard Business School and Stanford Graduate School of Business.
We’ve worked with many top applicants this MBA admissions season who achieved this impressive feat—some with scholarships to boot. Here we analyze eight cases—and we have eight specific takeaways to share.
Successful Reapplicant to Harvard Business School, Stanford GSB
When we first met Ed Redden, he had submitted six failed applications. But the rejections from Harvard Business School and Stanford Graduate School of Business, in particular, made him question whether he should even try to apply again.
What Makes a Great MBA Recommendation Letter
The recommendation letter forms an integral part of your MBA application package and can make—or break—your chances of admission. Ideally, the MBA recommendation letter provides the admissions committee with a fresh perspective on your skill sets. Above all, your recommenders should enhance your application by offering new and valuable insights into you as a person.
Don’t Fear Those MBA Admissions Background Checks
The vast majority of people shouldn’t stress over this verification process. Business schools aren’t on a mission to grill candidates about every last detail of their applications. They simply want to ensure that applicants have honestly represented themselves, their experience, and their accomplishments.
Face-Off: Oxford vs. Cambridge
In SBC’s blog series Face-Off, we tease out the strengths and differences between two similarly ranked, or located, b-schools. Plus, we’ll highlight unique elements of their admissions processes. Let’s kick things off by looking at the differences between the Oxford MBA application versus that of the University of Cambridge Judge School of Business.
Blog Posts with Program-Specific Intel
Harvard MBA Essay Tips for 2020-2021
Harvard Business School will again use the same essay question as last year. According to MBA Admissions Director Chad Losee, “Amidst all the uncertainty globally, we plan to minimize changes in our application process this year.” The admissions committee understands that the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted plans, employment, and personal lives.
Stanford MBA Essay Tips for 2020-2021
The admissions committee at Stanford has gained significant insight into applicants by asking, “What matters most, and why?” along with “Why Stanford?” These questions are simple, yet the answers are revealing.
One of SBC’s former GSB Admissions Officers shared, “GSB is looking for people who will make a big difference AND have a better shot than most in being able to execute. Stanford GSB students also seem to have this ‘X’ factor associated with them. Almost like an ‘unexpected’ trait, talent, or experience.”
Columbia MBA Essay Tips for 2020-2021
These Columbia MBA essay questions include a new question about leadership and your fit with the School. As one of SBC’s former CBS Admissions Officers shared, “With CBS, it really is a holistic approach, but the fit is VERY important. They want to know why CBS- that is a big part of their culture. They want to know you’re going to fit in.”
Wharton MBA Essay Tips for 2020-2021
The Wharton School seeks to understand who you are and what motivates you in this set of essays. Admissions Director Blair Mannix comments that “the Admissions Committee is looking for candidates who will contribute to all aspects of Wharton life.” Beyond your credentials and experience, fit is important.
Above all, Wharton values diversity and teamwork. Wharton seeks a class that will work well with each other and wants to admit passionate learners.
Looking ahead…
We hope this roundup of blog posts serves as a helpful jumping-off point as you begin to prepare for your application journey in 2020 and beyond.