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Why Clubs Matter in Choosing an MBA Program
Test scores. Graduation rates. Job prospects.
These are all important things to look for when deciding on an MBA program.
But the most overlooked? Student clubs.
Ilana Kowarski, a reporter at US News, recently spoke to experts on why student clubs count when choosing MBA programs.
“Clubs are very important and should definitely factor into an applicant’s research and choice, but given that business school is a major investment, clubs should not outweigh academic rigor, the strength (and connectedness) of the alumni network, and the program’s job placement track record for your desired industry,” Rebecca Horan, a brand strategist who received her MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business and later served as a Stern admissions officer, tells US News.
Making Connections
One of the best ways to make connections in b-school is to join a student club.
“Business schools are typically home to an eclectic group of student-run organizations, including clubs that focus on cultivating a specific type of business skill, like investing, and clubs that focus on socializing with people who share a hobby in common, such as skiing,” Kowarski writes.
Additionally, according to Kowarski, students can find affinity groups that align with their background.
“These affinity groups allow MBA students who come from underrepresented backgrounds to forge friendships and professional relationships with one another in a supportive and affirming social environment,” she writes.
Joining clubs can help you build not only your professional network, but your personal one too
“It’s helpful for networking, but I think it’s more helpful though for students feeling socially connected with each other,” Jack J. Baroudi, a professor and senior associate dean for academic programs at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics, tells US News. “So, for instance, we have an international student association in the business school and that becomes a very important place for our new international students to come in and say, ‘What is school like in the United States? What is business school like?’ and to meet their fellows who come in from their own country, but maybe also from other countries.”
Finding Your Career Interest
While the classroom can offer you a perspective into a certain subject, student clubs can present opportunities to actually see a career in practice.
“For MBA students who arrive at business school unsure of what career they want to pursue after they receive their MBA degree, student clubs offer exposure to a plethora of industries and business functions,” Kowarski writes. “That can help students discover the types of jobs that are the best fit for their talents and interests.”
Additionally, finding the right club can help you prepare for the job search.
“Some industry-related clubs will develop their own resume guides, conduct mock interviews, and undertake various other activities to compliment the work of career services,” Alex Brown, an MBA Admissions Expert at Clear Admit, tells Metro MBA. “So, it’s pretty important to engage with the clubs that relate to your MBA career goals.”
Holiday Checklist For MBA Applicants
With the holidays under way, it’s important for MBA applicants to stay on top of their game.
Stacy Blackman, of Stacy Blackman Consulting, recently outlined a step-by-step guide for holiday time management.
Check In With Recommenders
It’s important to ensure that your recommenders are on track to submit your letter on time.
Blackman suggests that applicants touch base with their recommenders if it’s been more than two weeks since their last check in.
“Remind them that it would be great if they could upload their responses a few days before the deadlines to avoid any last-minute system-crash drama,” Blackman writes. And thank them again for their time!”
With work slowing down during the holidays, Blackman says, it’s important to remind your recommenders to stay on track.
“Ensuring your recommenders are on track is your top priority because this is a tough time of the year for people to be pulled away from family obligations,” she writes. “You know you’ll get everything in, but this isn’t consuming their lives like it is yours.”
Document Check
It’s also critical to ensure that you have all the documents you need for your application.
“If you’re missing something at this point, you’ll probably have to hustle to secure what you need,” Blackman says.
Here are the common documents and other necessities needed for an MBA application, according to Columbia Business School:
- Transcripts
- GPA
- Resume
- GMAT/GRE Score
- Essays
- Recommendations
- Application Fee/Deposits
Resume Reviews
Blackman also suggests applicants to finalize their resumes during the holiday break.
“Many schools have cut down on essay requirements, so resumes are playing a larger role in deciding prospective students’ fates,” Blackman writes. “It’s critical that your resume tells the full story of your professional, educational and extracurricular achievements.”
Polish Your Essays
Most of your essays should be ready to submit during the holidays. However, Blackman says, it is possible to pull together quality responses in two weeks—if you are focused.
“You can have a few friends or family members on standby to help you firm up your themes and cut down extra words, but if you’re working with an admissions consultant, don’t let advice from others derail the strategy and positioning your consultant has helped you set,” Blackman writes.
Sources: Stacy Blackman Consulting, Columbia Business School
Maximize Your Employer Assistance For MBA Tuition
The MBA isn’t cheap. However, there are certain ways to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck.
One of those ways is through employer-sponsored tuition assistance.
Fortuna Admissions recently published an article on how to maximize your employer tuition assistance for the MBA.
“If you aren’t sure if your company offers tuition assistance, reach out to your manager/HR/benefits department to find out,” according to Fortuna Admissions. “You don’t want to leave any of your employer’s funds on the table.”
Know How Much You Can Receive
Knowing how much you’ll get from your employer depends on your employment status.
“Full-time employees can receive one amount and part-time employees often receive a smaller amount,” according to Fortuna. “Sometimes the amount is prorated based upon FTE status. There also may be a minimum FTE required for eligibility.”
Additionally, it’s important to ask a few questions regarding your assistance. Here are some common questions, according to Fortuna:
- Is the year the payment is deducted from based upon the reimbursement pay date, course start date, or course end date?
- Which costs are covered by the tuition assistance program? Tuition only? Or are academic fees and/or books included?
- Are 100% of the fees covered up to the annual limit?
- What is the minimum grade requirement and does the grade affect the percentage of tuition reimbursed?
Know Who To Ask
It’s also crucial to know the person who should address these questions.
“A common problem in asking for employer sponsorship is that the person you plan to talk to isn’t high enough up in organization to make the decision about sponsorship,” according to a blog post by Wharton School of Business.
Prior to asking someone, it’s important to first ask yourself a few questions.
“If that is the case, then ask if you think they are on your side,” according to Wharton. “If they’re not an advocate for you, then try to talk to the person who can make the decision. However, if they are an advocate for you, then it might be better for them to make the case on your behalf.”
When And How To Apply
Each company handles tuition assistance differently, according to Fortuna.
“Your employer may handle the tuition assistance program in-house, or they may outsource the processing to a program administrator. Either way, you’ll want to know if the application process happens after you complete each course or if you need to apply before the term begins.”
Typically, you’ll have to apply each term. Regardless of the process, Fortuna experts stress the importance in not missing deadlines.
“Your application may be denied if it is late or missing documentation. You’ll likely need to include course-specific information on the application, such as course name, number, cost per course, and start/end dates. Your employer may also require you to confirm the accreditation of your program.”
It’s also important to know the different models that the programs are based.
“Many tuition assistance programs are based on the reimbursement model, where you receive the funds after you prove that you paid for and completed courses by submitting your tuition receipt and grades. Others allow you to receive the funds up front or have the funds paid directly to your school. Prepayment by your employer is easier on you since you won’t need to pay out of pocket, but you’ll certainly want to achieve the appropriate grade so that you are not required to pay the money back.”
Sources: Fortuna Admissions, Wharton School of Business
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