The Optional MBA Essay, Explained

Confused about optional essays? If so, you are not alone. Here are some guidelines about the optional MBA application essay.

Three Crucial Questions To Ask Before Hiring An Admissions Consultant

Are you considering working with an admissions consultant? If so, you are probably discovering that there are significant differences between firms, and wondering how to choose the best match for you. Here are three crucial questions to ask before hiring an admissions consultant.

Why the MBA Admissions Committee Said No

When I was the Associate Director of Admissions for Tuck, I was often really excited about candidates who I would meet on the road or at events. We would have great conversations, and I would start to envision them as part of the Tuck community. Unfortunately, when I finally reviewed their applications there were often avoidable but fatal mistakes that precluded the MBA admissions committee … [ Read more ]

Sample MBA Application Essays: A Really Bad Idea

I firmly believe that reading other people’s essays before writing your own is a huge, detrimental mistake. Here are three reasons why I never give my clients templates or sample application essays.

How To Ask For Business School Recommendations

It’s an honor to be asked to write business school recommendations, and also a big responsibility. Taking these steps will help you get great results, and also shows your recommenders that you appreciate their support.

What Business Schools Really Think When You Ask For A Deferral

For some of you, despite having been admitted to one or more schools, you may not feel sure that are ready to matriculate – at least not to those programs. If this sounds familiar, you might be considering asking for a deferral. Here is insight into what business schools really think when you ask for a deferral.

Should You Apply To Business School In the First Round?

Every year I am asked whether or not it’s strategic to apply to business school in the first round. In the vast majority of cases, the answer is clearly yes.

The Top Mistakes Women Make When Applying to Business School

As the former lead diversity recruiter at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, Karen Marks interacted with thousands of women who were applying to graduate school.  As the President of North Star Admissions Consulting she has gotten to know even more. In both of these roles, she have seen women make these common errors that severely limit their opportunities.

Want To Know Why You Were Really Wait Listed?

Of all the possible admissions decisions, being placed on the wait list is one of the most frustrating. For tips about how to get yourself moved off of the wait list and into the business school of your dreams, please read this post. For insight into why you were wait listed in the first place, please read on.

Have You Chosen the Wrong Business School Recommender?

Asking for a recommendation is stressful. You are making yourself vulnerable and possibly learning what people really think of you. The news isn’t always good, but it’s crucial to pay attention to what your potential business school recommender is actually telegraphing. Here are signs that you have chosen the wrong business school recommender, and should ask someone else.