Mr. Family Media Biz

Hi Mr. Family Media Biz,
This is Debbie Choy, Senior Consultant at mbaMission. I think you have a lot of strengths in your profile – solid academics, robust career, and active in your community (during college and at present with the NGO). I think your GRE offsets your softer GPA, although it sounds like you were able to do well in your final two years in college, and got on the Dean’s list. The Admissions Committee will appreciate that you bring a unique perspective from being in the family business. Further, your personal story as a LGBTQ professional could also give you insights on diversity and inclusivity. As you put your CBS app together, be sure to describe what skills/knowledge an MBA will give you. As well, dive deep into the resources at CBS that can help you lead your family business in the future. If you can do all the above compellingly, I think you’d have a strong shot at CBS. Wishing you the best in your MBA journey!

Hi, it’s Jennifer Jackson from Stratus Admissions. I think you’ll be competitive at CBS. They’ll love your high GRE score and your work experience coupled with your post-MBA goals. CBS has fantastic family business resources so be sure to explain how you’ll take advantage of those and add to the learning of others through your experiences. Your GPA is below average but your test score likely mitigates that. You might explain in an optional essay if there’s any particular reason for it. It’s not a red flag GPA so don’t worry much about it. You’ll also want to really explain WHY you need an MBA to go back into the family business at some point. Perhaps you have had experiences in your role where you would have been more effective with the MBA, so a formalized business education coupled with other media/entertainment experience would allow you to make a bigger impact when you return to the family business. I wish you lots of luck!