Meet Virginia Darden’s MBA Class of 2017

Barker Squire

University of Virginia, Darden School of Business 

Hometown (City and State): Emporia, VA

Undergraduate School and Major: Virginia Military Institute, B.A. History

Employers and Job Titles Since Graduation: United States Marine Corps—Infantry Officer (Captain)

Recalling your own experience, what advice do you have for applicants who are preparing for either the GMAT or the GRE? There are many things in the MBA application process over which you have no control—the GMAT is not one of those things. Put in the time necessary to master the content and use the adaptive nature of the test to your advantage. Particularly with the quantitative section, choose which questions are worth your time and which ones aren’t. Lastly, do not forget that, like time, your brain is a resource that must be wisely managed throughout the test.

Based on your own selection process, what advice do you have for applicants who are trying to draw up a list of target schools to which to apply? Get a general sense of programs via admissions materials and third party reviews. As you narrow down your list, visit schools in person. Try to spend time with current students outside of planned admissions events. If you feel at home, add the school to your list. If you don’t feel comfortable, then don’t waste your time with the application.

What advice do you have for applicants in actually applying to a school, writing essays, doing admission interviews, and getting recommenders to write letters on your behalf? Stay organized and use the many resources that are out there to help with these things. In my opinion, the attitude you have throughout the process is the most important factor. Find that one thing that gets you motivated about b-school and use it to get the most out of yourself. If it helps, keep in mind that whatever up-front investment you make during the application process will pale in comparison to the awesome opportunities you will receive for the rest of your life, post-acceptance.

What led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA? Darden is the “real deal.” The academics are very rigorous and the opportunities after graduation are limitless. But what sets it apart from other top programs is its emphasis on human interaction. If you have spent any time in the business or military world, you know that interaction between people and teams is usually the largest determinant of success. I chose Darden because the program and the people here—students, faculty, and staff members—are committed to helping me become the best communicator, leader, and person I can be. I know these traits will make me successful and fulfilled regardless of which career path I choose.

What would you ultimately like to achieve before you graduate? Ultimately I would like to secure funding for my first company. That would be awesome.