I want to go to business school. What are some key things I should do to prepare myself?
Business school has always been a goal of mine, and I've always wanted to go to a top school. I ask this question because I am committed to attending a top business school. I've already begun to ready myself for a good job after graduation, so what can I do now (as a college student) to prepare myself for an MBA? #college #graduate-school #graduate #undergraduate #masters-degree #mba
5 answers
Ryan’s Answer
Hi Kyle,
While I have not personally gone for my MBA, expect to do a lot of group work. I would imagine taking real world "work" skills into this new chapter of life would help.
So if you have never had a job before, try and find one. While school teaches you a lot, nothing really truly prepares you for working in real life situations.
Daryl’s Answer
Great question, I pursued an MBA and am happy to share some of things I did to prepare:
First, start thinking about standardize testing early. Most MBA programs require either a GMAT or GRE score. You will want to invest time in properly preparing for these tests. And I do think it is easier to take a standardized test when you are still in a test taking mode from your undergraduate degree
Second, start researching schools early. Subscribe to their mailing lists, it will help you get a feel for what each school values and what kind of program they believe they are.
Third, visit some school and ask to meet with current students or alumni that will give you a view of their first hand experience.
-Daryl
Shruti’s Answer
Hi Kyle,
I like your forward thinking approach. Having attended b-school myself, in hindsight here are few things I suggest that you do to prepare yourself.
- Do tons of research to see which b-school best fits you and that aligns with your area of interest.
- See whether you would like to do a general MBA or specialize in a certain area - this is another factor for you to zero down on the school
- Align and diversify your classes and any internships to not just your area of interest but also to see how well it can complement your focus area. For example, if you are wanting to focus in marketing, then any exposure to sales or finance can always be a good add-on.
- Of course prepare for GMAT
- Ensure you have extra curricular, volunteering and all things that will make you stand out .
All the best.
Shruti
Manish Kumar
Manish’s Answer
I would suggest to become aware of the format of MBA entrance tests is the 1st step. Second will be to talk to current students and recent Alumni and get their opinion. Third, personally visit few schools, meet faculty, attend a class. Fourth, decide after going through the research what are the schools you want to target and what are the admission criteria for the same.
Alexis’s Answer
That said, as a college student, I'd focus on finding a job in a career that will help open as many doors for you as possible (that's aligned to your interests of course!), with a medium-term goal of studying for the GMAT. Once you get closer to applying, schools also usually host admissions panels in large cities (usually with alumni and admissions folks), so attend if you can to get a better feel for culture, student experience, job prospects, and fit. Talk to alumni if you can. Once you start working, you may find that taking 2 years (and ~$100K!) from your career to get your MBA doesn't actually align with your career or life goals. Stay flexible. Stay curious. Good luck!