Northwestern Kellogg School of Management

Kellogg Interview: How to Demonstrate Your Fit

If there’s one thing that Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management looks for in applicants, it’s the ability to collaborate. Kellogg prides itself on its “give more than you take” culture and the B-school values students who are fully engaged and “all in” with their student experience.

Stacy Blackman, founder of Stacy Blackman Consulting, recently broke down the Kellogg MBA interview and offered a few tips on how applicants can demonstrate a perfect fit with the B-school’s team-oriented culture.

SHARE YOUR CAREER STORY

One of the biggest mistakes applicants make in the interview process is simply reiterating the information on their resume. Instead, Blackman says, use the interview as an opportunity to tell the story behind your career path and your future goals.

“Craft a narrative highlighting which of your roles and responsibilities have prepared you for your larger career goals,” Blackman says. “Use this opportunity to explain how a Kellogg MBA will help you address specific gaps in your professional experience.”

HIGHLIGHT YOUR PASSION

While a strong GPA and high test scores are impressive, academic performance is just one aspect that Kellogg is looking for. Rather than simply highlighting your impressive numbers, Blackman suggests demonstrating to the interviewer your love of learning and your creativity.

“Your interviewer will also ask questions designed to get the ‘inside story’ on what has driven some of your big life decisions so far – another method of uncovering your passions and witnessing your intellect in action,” Blackman says.

SHOW YOU’RE A TEAM PLAYER

Collaboration is an integral part of the Kellogg experience. Interviewers specifically look for applicants who can demonstrate strong interpersonal skills. Blackman recommends highlighting examples of how you’ve managed conflict in group situations.

“Try to convey that you feel comfortable playing many roles in team settings: leader, collaborator, mediator,” Blackman says. “Remember, whether you’re interviewing with a current student member of the admissions committee or with an alum, they will be thinking, ‘Would I want to work in a group with this person?’”

Sources: Stacy Blackman Consulting, P&Q