Walter: Rounding Out Round 1

October 16, 2013 :: Admissionado Team

So, you guys must be wondering what I’ve been up to post my HBS app submission. Well, not hard to predict, I’m making a back-up plan for any risk mitigation. Given the competitive nature of admissions, it’s good to apply to a few schools (without compromising on efforts/quality) since life may not always give us our top choice.

Although HBS is definitely my dream school, considering the resources available in almost all top schools  (professors, network, community, career opportunities), I should be able to achieve my goals at most of them. (Assuming, of course, some specifics are met — on-campus recruitment in my desired field, transformational experience etc. etc.)

My next school targets are Kellogg and Wharton. However, I’m a bit shocked to see the Kellogg’s sudden alterations in dates of their admissions process for International candidates. Kellogg is a great marketing school and the team oriented culture runs through the entire school. I’ve a few friends there who are having a wonderful time. Now, the close deadline and the new video component seem to demand a lot of time and effort. As a re-applicant here too, I want to apply to Round 1 only, to show my interest toward their program. Actually, I don’t know how my applying to Round 2 as a re-applicant will be perceived by adcom. I’ll love to hear any comments.

Wharton also has a great marketing department with an amazing faculty. One of the professors actually founded Conjoint Analysis, something that’s used by most marketing managers today. I think Wharton’s MBA program was recently ranked Number 2 in a major survey too. I’ve lived in Philadelphia before as well for a short duration and really enjoyed meeting a few Wharton folks. So, it seems I’m starting with my Wharton application now! Once I’m done with this, I’ll shortly know about HBS Interview Results that will determine my further approach.

So, that’s where I’m at right now. This MBA application process doesn’t seem to ever end, but I know that it will all be for the best.

Walter’s been chronicling his HBS application experience from the beginning. Follow the entire process right here.