What’s new at NYU Stern? New MBA programs. New application process. New deadlines. Let’s learn all about it!

It gives me great pleasure to welcome back to Admissions Straight Talk Isser Gallogly, Associate Dean of MBA Admissions at NYU Stern School of Business. I almost feel like Isser needs no introduction at Accepted. He participated in many of Accepted’s old text-only admissions chats. He’s also been a guest on AST twice before – Episode 97, where we discussed part-time options at Stern, and Episode 184, where we discussed NYU Stern’s FT MBA admissions process. So when you finish with this show and want to learn more about NYU Stern, check out those.

Welcome back, Isser!

Can you give us an overview of the changes to Stern’s MBA application process this year? [2:00]

We launched two new, focused MBA programs. We explored the idea of separate applications, and decided on having one application for all of the programs – so you can apply to up to four MBA programs with one application: the full-time MBA, part-time MBA, and our two new specialized, full-time, 12-month programs (one in tech, one in fashion and luxury). You indicate a primary program of interest and explain why it’s your primary, and then identify your alternates.

The EMBA has a different process because it’s a unique profile.

If you list an alternate, it won’t be held against you? [5:00]

Not at all. Maybe someone’s preference is the full-time MBA, because they want to be immersed – but they can also see that the part-time program would be viable, because they can see that going to school while in the work environment would be helpful for them. It’s two different paths to the same goal.

What is the EQ Endorsement? [6:35]

This is a completely new section for the MBA application, and one we thought was important!

At Stern, one of the differentiators for us is what we call IQ + EQ – our students don’t just have raw intelligence, but also emotional intelligence (EQ), to work with people and lead. EQ is always something we’re looking for. We thought there was an opportunity to get more information in the application process.

Professional letters of rec are often limited – sometimes the recommender doesn’t know you that well or hasn’t known you that long. We came up with the idea of an EQ endorsement. Someone who knows you well provides an example of your emotional intelligence.

We’re hoping to get good insight into what makes people tick – almost a preview of the interview. We’re really looking forward to the responses! Applicants are always looking for ways to tell their stories and differentiate themselves. This is another opportunity to do that. You can ask anyone aside from a family member. It opens up a wide playing field. The basic prompt will be a definition of EQ, and then ask for a specific example/instance that shows EQ.

Can you describe the Pick Six essay? [12:40]