The Highs & Lows Of An Applicant's Journey To Business School

The Second Half Of The Journey Map For MBA Applicants

The Goal-Oriented Ghost

Has a shorter list of criteria: location, rankings, & cost. May have other constraints including location for spouse’s work or decision to keep working full-time. Has a good idea of what an MBA will do for him. Applies to fewer programs and is very methodical and efficient with application and finds little need to attend extra events.

Lowest Points of Journey	Highest Points of Journey
1) Planning a new life schedule	1) Submitting admit decision
2) Getting recommendations	2) Mulling admit decisions
3) Communications with school after admission	3) Submitting MBA applications
4) Awaiting decisions from schools	4) Admissions interview
5) Writing Essays	5) Discussing with family & friends

Source: Georgetown University McDonough School

The ‘Good Feeling’ Seeker

Wants to click with those she interacts with and may be swayed by an event where she connects with someone from her industry or a beautiful day on campus. Seeks opportunities for multiple interactions with the school and may approach the MBA as a chance for adventure and exploration. Decides with her gut based on how the school made her feel.

Lowest Points of Journey	Highest Points of Journey
1) Taking the GMAT exam	1) Acceptance calls from schools
2) Awaiting decisions from schools	2) Admissions interviews
3) Mulling decisions after acceptances	3) Discussing with family & friends
4) Submitting the applications	4) Welcome to school with others
5) Establishing criteria to select schools	5) Writing essays

Source: Georgetown University McDonough School

The Data Enthusiast

Wants to weigh her options thoroughly and may have a decision matrix. Looks at the statistics behind the rankings and appreciates detailed information on school websites and materials. Constantly refines school list and may need extra time when making decisions. Feels the weight of the decision.

Lowest Points of Journey	Highest Points of Journey
1) Taking the GMAT exam	1) Acceptance calls from schools
2) Awaiting decisions from schools	2) Admissions interviews
3) Mulling acceptance decisions	3) Discussing with others post-acceptance
4) Establishing criteria to select schools	4) Welcome to school with others
5) Getting undergrad transcripts	5) Submitting decision to attend

Source: Georgetown University McDonough School

The Fit Questioner

Has a good idea of his future goals. School focus and programs available are particularly important. Wants both an intellectual and cultural fit. Wants a like-minded community where people share his values on business and learning. May take multiple trips to school to assess fit.

Lowest Points of Journey	Highest Points of Journey
1) Taking the GMAT exam	1) Acceptance calls from schools
2) Awaiting decision from schools	2) Submitting decision to school
3) Researching schools before applying	3) Admissions interview
4) Mulling decision to attend a school	4) Writing essays
5) Financial costs & ROI	5) Welcome to school with others