Mr. MBB Hopeful

Hi Mr. MBB Hopeful,
I like your go-getter spirit getting into the wealth management industry, and I bet schools will too! This is Debbie Choy from mbaMission. You have a lot of strengths in your profile – your robust work achievements (producing roll, top quartile for new business, promotion, CFP), solid academic track record (GPA and GMAT), as well as your community leadership (JA, financial literacy mentoring and Boys & Girls club). As you put together your applications, AdCom will be curious to understand why MBA and why now, especially given your current work achievements. Also be sure to connect this to your future career goals of pivoting into consulting. Additionally, think about how this will connect to your long-term career goals (say 10-15 years post-MBA). Most grads entering the consulting industry stay for a few years before specializing in an industry (pivoting to the industry side). Is there an industry down the road you’d like to focus on? If so, why? I think if you can weave these into a compelling narrative, you’d have a strong shot at Darden. Wishing you the best in your MBA journey!

Hi Mr. MBB Hopeful, Melisa here from Stratus Admissions. Congrats on your recent promotion! I think you have a strong profile that matches well with your school list. I am sure it’s not a coincidence that Darden has risen to the top of your list since the dean came from MBB. You’ve done a nice job of selecting a group of schools that will position you nicely for consulting. You’ve done a nice job here of highlighting your hustle and drive, which will be valued. Schools will also be interested in your leadership experience – president of your fraternity will show your leadership in undergrad and so you want to make sure you can highlight your leadership either professionally or in the community after undergrad. You have fantastic involvement – and maybe there is an opportunity for you to take on a leadership position in one of your volunteer roles. Where I think you need to dig deeper is why consulting – and where you hope consulting to take you long term. One way to stand out amongst other finance male applicants heading to consulting (or visa versa) is to make your goals story personal and unique to you. What problems do you want to address with through consulting – and longer term what will consulting prepare you for. While Darden can definitely help you transition to consulting, they will want to see you’ve thought through your career plan. Wish you the best of luck and reach out if you have any questions.