MIT Sloan is consistently ranked one of the top business schools in the country, and is one of the elite M7 programs known for their excellence and competitiveness. In this episode of the mbaMission Podcast, we discuss what makes MIT Sloan the dream MBA program for so many applicants. Our guest for this week's episode is Dawna Levenson, Assistant Dean of Admissions at MIT Sloan. Dawna shares her thoughts on what makes Sloan unique, what the Sloan admissions committee is looking for, what first-year MBA students find surprising about the program, and more.

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For many business school hopefuls, standardized testing is the most daunting part of the application process. Applicants often find that they cannot reach their desired scores through traditional study techniques. Why is that? And how SHOULD you prepare for an adaptive exam like the GMAT or the GRE? In this episode of the mbaMission Podcast, we’re turning to the expert on all things GMAT and GRE for answers. Stacey Koprince has been teaching the GMAT, GRE, and EA for almost 20 years and is one of the most well-known and sought-after instructors in the industry. She also leads Manhattan Prep’s content and curriculum team, literally writing the books and lessons on test prep.

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Business school applications typically open in late spring or early summer -- but when should you actually start preparing your MBA candidacy? Earlier than you might think! In this episode of the mbaMission Podcast, Harold Simansky, Jeremy Shinewald, and Gavriella Semaya discuss the many components of MBA applications and the importance of starting the process early. They share sample timelines and outline the work you should be doing to build your MBA candidacy one year, two years, or even 3-5 years before you apply to business school.

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It has been just over a year since the Graduate Management Admission Council, or GMAC, introduced the new GMAT Focus Edition which replaced the traditional GMAT exam. What have we learned? How can you best prepare for it? What score do you need to hit to be competitive at top-10 or top-15 business schools? And how does the GRE fit into all of this? In this episode of the mbaMission Podcast, we’re turning to the expert on the subject to answer these questions and more. Stacey Koprince has been teaching the GMAT, GRE, and EA for almost 20 years and is one of the most well-known and sought-after instructors in the industry. She also leads Manhattan Prep’s content and curriculum team, literally writing the books and lessons on test prep.

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In our first podcast episode of 2025, mbaMission's Harold Simansky, Jeremy Shinewald, and Jessica Shklar share their takeaways from the 2024 MBA application season and make predictions for the 2025 application season. They discuss macro trends related to the economy, the impact of AI on business school admissions, trends in GMAT scoring, and more.

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In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Michael Guttman discuss the intricacies of being waitlisted by business schools, particularly focusing on strategies for applicants to improve their profiles, demonstrate interest, and effectively communicate with admissions committees. They emphasize the importance of proactive engagement and the potential for success even after being placed on a waitlist.

Takeaways

• Being waitlisted is still an impressive accomplishment.
• Accept your spot on the waitlist and follow instructions.
• Improving your quantitative profile can boost your chances.
• Show continued interest in the school through engagement.
• Updates should be meaningful and spaced out every four to six weeks.
• Patience is key; don't overwhelm the admissions committee with communication.
• Consider taking supplemental courses to enhance your profile.
• Understand the timing of the waitlist process and your options.
• Reapplying after being waitlisted can still be a positive move.
• Stay focused on your goals and keep working on your profile.

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In this episode of the mbaMission Podcast, Harold Simansky and Gavriella Semaya discuss the critical role of resumes in the MBA application process. They emphasize the importance of crafting a distinctive resume that highlights accomplishments over responsibilities, the significance of formatting, and how personal interests can add value. The conversation also touches on common pitfalls in resume writing and the interplay between resumes and application essays, providing listeners with actionable insights to enhance their application materials.

Takeaways

• Don't underestimate the importance of the resume.
• A one-page resume is ideal for most applicants.
• Focus on accomplishments rather than just responsibilities.
• Selected Transaction Experience can effectively showcase your best work.
• Make your resume easy to read and understand.
• Avoid creative flourishes in your resume format.
• Personal interests should reveal something distinctive about you.
• Do not copy and paste your resume into the application.
• Highlight real proactive initiatives in your experiences.
• Be mindful of common resume pitfalls to avoid.

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In this episode of the mbaMission Podcast, Harold Simansky interviews Christine Patel, a graduate of the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Christine shares her enriching experiences at the GSB, highlighting the unique culture, the genuine connections she made, and the various activities and programs she participated in. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity among students and the lasting relationships formed during her time at Stanford.

Takeaways

• Christine loved the close-knit community at Stanford GSB.
• She took classes across disciplines, enhancing her learning experience.
• Outdoor Adventures helped her build lasting friendships.
• Study trips to Costa Rica and South Africa were highlights.
• Stanford offers a plethora of social activities and events.
• Authenticity is a key trait among Stanford GSB students.
• Christine remains connected with her Stanford peers.
• Board Fellows provided her with valuable nonprofit experience.
• The culture at Stanford fosters genuine relationships.
• Christine is actively involved in alumni networks.

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In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Rachel Beck discuss the complexities of the MBA application process, focusing on what can go right and wrong. They explore the competitive nature of admissions, the importance of academic metrics, the role of recommendations, and the art of storytelling in essays. They also provide insights on how applicants can move forward after facing rejection, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and strategic planning for future applications.

Takeaways

• The MBA application process is highly competitive with limited seats.
• Not standing out in a crowded field can lead to rejection.
• Luck plays a significant role in admissions decisions.
• Academic metrics like grades and test scores are crucial.
• Recommendations can significantly impact application outcomes.
• Crafting compelling stories in essays is essential for success.
• Engagement in activities outside of work enhances an application.
• Reapplying requires demonstrating new achievements or experiences.
• Self-reflection after rejection can guide future applications.
• There are many paths to achieving career goals through various MBA programs.

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In this episode, Harold Simansky and Christine Patel discuss the landscape of MBA programs focused on healthcare. Christine shares her background in healthcare and her experiences applying to various MBA programs, including Stanford, Wharton, and Berkeley. They explore the differences between healthcare management programs and traditional MBA programs, the importance of geographical location in choosing a program, and the flexibility of curriculums in healthcare-focused MBAs. Christine also offers advice for prospective students on how to effectively convey their interest in healthcare during the application process.

Takeaways

• Christine Patel has a strong background in healthcare and management consulting.
• Wharton offers a dedicated healthcare management program with a strong alumni network.
• Geographical location plays a crucial role in healthcare education and opportunities.
• Many business schools have excellent entrepreneurial programs in healthcare.
• Healthcare is a broad field with various specializations and opportunities.
• Stanford GSB allows flexibility in course selection, including classes outside the business school.
• Prospective students should be specific about their interests in healthcare in their applications.
• Networking and alumni connections are vital in the healthcare sector.
• Berkeley Haas has a notable joint MBA/MPH program.
• Vanderbilt is recognized for its strong healthcare program due to its location in Nashville.

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