Mr. Apple Network Architect

Mr. Apple Network Architect – Thanks for posting your profile. Susan Cera here from Stratus.

For the purposes of this assessment, I’m assuming that you are looking at the part-time EWMBA program at Berkeley-Haas. Your chances for the full-time programs at Haas are in the single digits (overall acceptance rate is typically ~12%).

For the part-time program, adcom will focus on whether or not their program can help you to develop the skills necessary to accelerate your career. They are less focused on your extra-curriculars. While completing a marathon is a great accomplishment, few can demonstrate how that activity has helped others or allowed them to develop as a teammate or leader.

With 10+ years of WE and a masters under your belt, you are solidly outside the range for full-time, 2 year programs. If you have your heart set on going full-time, you might take a look at the Cornell 1Y program.

Due to the pandemic, you may be able to expand the list of programs you could look at beyond your local geography. Take a look at Michigan Ross, Duke Fuqua and UCLA Anderson’s part-time programs.

Wishing you all the best!

Hi Mr. Apple Network Architect, Melisa here from Stratus Admissions and Haas alum. As a Network Architect, I am sure you have seen some interesting things at Apple. What jumps out to me first, is your years of experience – 14 years is quite a bit above the mid 80% range of 3-8 years at most business schools. I am wondering if you would consider a part time or executive program – especially since you mentioned that your goals are to grow within leadership in tech. If you are interested in a residential program, you could also consider the MsX program at Stanford, the MIT Fellows 1 year program that is geared to those with >10 years of experience or either the NYU or Cornell Tech MBAs. In these programs, you’d be sitting with others with similar years of experience. All this said, let’s talk about the rest of your profile. Your current GMAT score is below the averages for the programs you mentioned – you may want to consider retaking. Your score would be higher than the average of Haas’s part time program. Schools are going to want to see that you have taken part in your overall community – have you had been involved at Apple or Cisco outside of your specific role? Maybe in recruiting or mentoring teammates? I am super impressed with your multiple marathons – are you involved in a local running community? You will want to highlight your leadership stories – maybe your datacenter launch? Also, have you had any promotions in your time at Apple? School will look for upward trajectory on your career. You assessment here is based on a full time application with your current stats – and I think you would be a strong candidate in part time or 1 year Tech programs. Reach out if I can answer any other questions.