Ready For Finance: Think Before You Leap

Think Before You Leap

MBA-Bound?

Here are some “starter” questions to consider.

Do you have 3-4 years of work experience? This is a plus, but is not a fast and firm pre-requisite at many schools.

Have you studied for and/or taken the GMAT? GMATs are a pre-requisite for applying to 99% of accredited business schools—Stanford is one exception, they also accept GRE scores.

Will you require financial assistance? Many students do—exploring loan, fellowship options and other financing issues is an important step in the process.

Do you prefer a large school environment or a smaller school? Do you want a school that teaches using case methodology or are you looking for the more traditional lecture format? Top-ranked schools have different focus areas, class formats—do your homework to determine which suits your learning and leadership style.

Do you know what your major will be? ToigoTalks focuses on careers in finance.

Before you begin the MBA application process, you should consider the minimum requirements to be a viable candidate. At most of the top business schools, for example, two to four years of professional work experience is required, as are strong GMAT scores and well-written essays.

Grades are important, GMAT scores are, too. But stellar grades and GMAT scores alone will not get you in to business school. Your essay response, recommendations and interviews factor heavily in MBA admission decisions. If your grades or test scores are not as strong as you would like, make sure you strategically address this issue in your essay and interview responses.

What is An MBA Worth?
Aspiring to be a great business leader? There are plenty of top level C-suite executives who have “made it” without the academic credential of an MBA. Only you can answer the “is it worth it” question.

Ask any MBA graduate and they will affirm the fact that the MBA is more than classroom learning—it is an experience that has opened up new career possibilities that, without it, would have been beyond their reach. And, of course, it has fostered life-long friendships.

Finding Your Match
Many schools are known for having a particular field of emphasis: finance, marketing, or general management for instance. Finding your focus will help you narrow your search. For many, the school’s commitment to community service and diversity has become another metric. Do you want a school that will provide an international experience as well as domestic? Many schools today have alliances with international schools—which may also factor in your decision.

Once you have developed your “short list,” take time to meet with representatives from the admissions and career services offices at those top choices. Sit in on a class. Talk to the students and ask for names of alumni so you can reach out to them. If information sessions are available, take advantage of them. You will find that you may have an immediate reaction (either positive or negative) to a school once you visit it and can envision yourself on that campus for two years.

There are numerous choices. And you may decide that there is only one right school for you. We encourage you to think differently. We believe there is more than one school that will challenge you to grow and flourish as a business leader. In today’s increasingly competitive application environment, you will serve yourself well to apply to a number of schools and be open and flexible in your thinking.