Texas McCombs MBA Insider

Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA Application Updates and Changes 2024-2025

Deep Dive Into the 2024-2025 Full-Time MBA Application Deadlines and Components

Application components for the top-ranked Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA program have been updated for the 2024-2025 cycle with a few exciting new additions alongside the continuation of successful existing offerings. Together, these elements create a robust application experience designed to comprehensively evaluate each candidate’s unique profile and fit for the program. These additions not only provide increased flexibility but also create more opportunities for meaningful self-expression, allowing candidates to put their best foot forward.

Refreshed Essay Prompts: The essay section has been refreshed with new essay prompts that provide an invaluable opportunity to showcase different facets of your unique background, goals, and fit for Texas McCombs. These prompts allow you to express yourself authentically and highlight what distinguishes you from other applicants.
Expanded Standardized Testing Options: Texas McCombs continues to offer flexibility by accepting the GMAT, GRE, and Executive Assessment (EA). The school also maintains its merit-based test waiver process for exceptional applicants whose academic records and professional achievements demonstrates readiness for the program’s rigor.
Avenues for Authentic Self-Expression: We continue to prioritize getting to know applicants as well-rounded individuals beyond just written materials. The video assessment allows you to showcase skills like communication, critical thinking, and professionalism through recorded video responses. The virtual interview with a current MBA student, while optional, allows for a candid conversation and personal connection where you can gain insights into the student experience while demonstrating fit for Texas McCombs culture and values. Both the video assessment and interview component create powerful avenues for self-expression.
Extended Application Window: We remain committed to providing flexibility throughout the process. As such, the program is continuing to offer a Round 4 deadline for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle. Prospective students have until May 15, 2025, to submit their materials for Round 4 consideration. The admissions committee understands that applying to top MBA programs requires significant time and effort. By maintaining a later deadline, candidates have increased flexibility to thoughtfully prepare their application materials without being rushed.

APPLICATION COMPONENTS FOR THE 2024-2025 ADMISSIONS CYCLE

Our admissions committee dedicates itself to a meticulous, holistic review of each application. Our objective is to determine if you are a good fit for Texas McCombs and to be sure we are the right school for you and your goals. There are no fixed criteria or weighted portions of the application. Unless otherwise noted, the following application components will be required this cycle:

Standardized Test (GMAT, GRE, Executive Assessment) or merit-based waiver
English Proficiency Test (TOEFL, IELTS) or waiver (international students only)
Undergraduate transcripts and graduate transcripts (if applicable)
Resume
One Professional Recommendation
Three Essay Prompts
Video Assessment
MBA Interview (Optional)

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Applications for the Full-Time MBA program are accepted in four rounds, and the program enrolls annually every August. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Central Time on the deadline date for each round.

Round 1: October 15, 2024
Round 2: January 15, 2025
Round 3: April 1, 2025*
Round 4: May 15, 2025

*Final deadline for international applicants.

STANDARDIZED TESTING REQUIREMENTS

Most applicants will need to submit a valid GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) score as part of their application package. These exams help evaluate academic preparedness for the rigor of business school; however, the admissions committee will waive the testing requirement if:

Expired (taken 5+ years ago) GMAT, GRE, or EA score is submitted
General Test Waiver (merit-based) is approved

For those planning to take the GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment, adequate preparation is crucial. These exams evaluate various skills, including quantitative reasoning, verbal abilities, and analytical writing. Investing time and effort into focused studies can undoubtedly boost your performance and increase your chances of earning a competitive score.

Note that the majority of applicants applying to the Full-Time MBA program take either the GMAT or the GRE due to the competitiveness of the pool. In many cases, having a strong GMAT or GRE score will make you more competitive for both admission and scholarship opportunities.

ESSAY PROMPTS

The essay prompts serve as a powerful storytelling tool, allowing you to share narratives and insights that may not be captured elsewhere in your application. The essay section has been refreshed for the 2024-2025 cycle, now featuring three prompts with a 250-word limit for each response. These are purposefully designed to elicit thoughtful and introspective responses that reveal your motivations, values, and aspirations.

As you approach this section, resist the temptation to restate information from your resume or transcripts. Instead, use this opportunity to provide context, share personal anecdotes, and convey your genuine passion for pursuing an MBA at Texas McCombs. Remember, the admissions committee is not merely evaluating your accomplishments but also seeking to understand the person behind the achievements.

VIDEO ASSESSMENT

The video assessment component evaluates your ability to think critically, communicate clearly, and present yourself professionally in a virtual setting – invaluable assets in today’s digital environment.

During the video assessment, you will be prompted to respond to a series of questions within a specified timeframe. While the format may seem daunting initially, it is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your poise, quick thinkings, and ability to articulate your thoughts coherently under pressure.

Preparation is key to excelling in this component. Practice responding to sample questions, familiarize yourself with the technology, and ensure a distraction-free environment.

MBA INTERVIEW (OPTIONAL)

The optional interview serves as the culminating “last dance” in your application journey – a final platform to convey your authentic self and solidify fit before the admissions decision. This candid two-way dialogues with a current student allows you to showcase interpersonal skills, reaffirm motivation, and make a lasting positive impression. More than just answering questions, you can gain an insider’s perspective into the MBA experience while the student ambassador evaluates your potential to collaborate and contribute to the community. Approach this final opportunity present, ask insightful questions, and reinforce why Texas McCombs is the perfect next step in your journey.

HOLISTIC REVIEW PROCESS

As you prepare your application, remember that Texas McCombs is dedicated to understanding you as a multidimensional individual. The new components create meaningful opportunities for self-expression that allow your unique story and fit for the program to truly shine through. With thoughtful preparation, you can craft an application that showcases your potential to thrive at Texas McCombs.

Stay tuned for our blog series on key application components over the summer and mark your calendar for our Full-Time MBA Class of 2027 application opening in August 2024.

Working Professional MBA Class of 2023 Career Outcomes

Impressive Outcomes from Texas McCombs Working Professional MBA Class of 2023

May 15, 2024 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

For ambitious professionals seeking to elevate their careers without taking a break, the Texas McCombs Working Professional MBA program, encompassing the Evening MBA, Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth, and Weekend MBA at Houston, continues to be a launchpad for success. The impressive outcomes of the Class of 2023 stand as a testament to the program’s commitment to empowering students to achieve their professional aspirations while working full-time.

When students enter the program, the identify themselves along one of four career paths:

Enhancers aim to continue an upward trajectory in the same career function or industry.
Switchers know they want to transition to a different role, function, and/or industry.
Explorers are curious about other opportunities and want to learn about different career paths while pursuing their MBA.
Entrepreneurs want to start their own business.

One such success story is Jaenero Gaither from the Dallas MBA program, who now works as a Supply Chain & Operations Consultant at Ernst & Young (EY). Jaenero entered the program as a supply chain analyst, considering herself an “Enhancer.” However, by getting involved with student organizations like Graduate Women in Business (GWiB), McCombs Ambassador Committee (MAC), and the Consulting Club, she quickly realized her “Explorer” mindset. Although introverted, Jaenero took the advice of the Career Management team and alumni, conducting informational interviews that helped her combine her supply chain experience with a newfound interest in consulting.

Through McCombs’ recruiting resources, Jaenero achieved her goal of landing a role at EY. She credits her ease in securing the position to those informational meetings and additional career conversations with alumni at the firm. Today, Jaenero is known for solving complex supply chain problems and guiding clients through difficult transitions. She remains connected to McCombs, volunteering whenever opportunities arise.

Stefani Sereboff, Senior Assistant Dean for Career Management & Corporate Relations at Texas McCombs.
Photo by Lauren Gerson.

In an exclusive interview with Stefani Sereboff, Senior Assistant Dean for Career Management & Corporate Relations, we delve into the achievements of the graduating class and the unwavering support provided by the McCombs Career Education & Coaching team.

Q: Can you speak to the salary increases and mobility among graduates? What employment trends are you noticing among working professional grads?

A: In our 2023 employment outcomes, our working professional students secured an average salary of $148,657, which is a 30% increase from when they started the program to post-graduation. 80% of our 2023 Working Professional MBA graduates made a career change in industry, function and/or role which highlights the desire of our students to grow in their careers which can be accomplished through career education, coaching and effective planning.

Our career education and coaching team specializes in meeting working professional students where they are at when they enter the program and providing them with education, support and resources to navigate their next career goals successfully.

Q: Can you elaborate on the types of roles or industries that graduates from the class of 2023 have entered?

A: Our working professional students’ top industries for the Class of 2023 were energy, manufacturing, consulting, technology, and financial services. We saw growth in energy, manufacturing, and financial services from the year prior. We see many students grow in their careers as well moving from manager to director and/or director to executive levels.

Q: How does Texas McCombs support its Working Professional MBA students in achieving their career goals?

A: Our Working Professional MBA Career Education & Coaching team provides dedicated team members to each program with a focus on career education, planning, resources, and support to empower our students to secure their ideal career path. We offer unlimited one-on-one coaching for our students and a thoughtful roadmap to lead students from career exploration though their entire career journey successfully.

We include alumni mentoring, programming, and networking opportunities throughout the two years at McCombs. Upon graduation, we introduce our students to alumni career management which provides coaching, resources and support for life for our alumni.

Q: How does Texas McCombs continue to evolve its career management resources to meet the changing needs of Working Professional MBA students?

A: We spend ample time researching market trends, insights, resources, and skills need for the future workplace. As our team researches, we identify new content, technologies, and experiential learning activities to incorporate in our student career experiences. It is key to us supporting our students for their future career growth.

The achievements of the Texas McCombs Working Professional MBA Class of 2023 serve as a powerful testament to the program’s excellence and commitment to empowering ambitious professionals to unlock their full potential. With its robust career management resources and the guidance of the experienced Career Education & Coaching team, McCombs continues to pave the way for transformative career journeys, enabling students to confidently navigate the path to success.

If you have any questions about Texas McCombs, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA. Hook ’em!

Photo of Emi FitzGerald, Executive MBA '23 with text that reads "Unlocking the Power of Community: The Executive MBA Experience"

Unlocking the Power of Community: The Texas McCombs Executive MBA Experience

April 26, 2024 / Texas MBA Admissions / 0 Comments

Pursuing an MBA is more than just gaining a degree; it’s about the relationships you build, the experiences you share, and the community you become a part of. At Texas McCombs, our Executive MBA program offers not only top-tier education but also a supportive and collaborative culture. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an up-and-coming leader, you’ll find yourself surrounded by individuals who are not only eager to share their knowledge but also genuinely invested in your success. Here, competition takes a back seat to cooperation as students come together to tackle real-world challenges and opportunities.

Collaborative Culture

One of the defining characteristics of our Executive MBA program is its collaborative nature, unlike traditional MBA programs that may foster competition. Our students come from diverse professional backgrounds and industries, and they bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. Instead of competing against one another, our students work together, leveraging each other’s strengths to achieve mutual success. Whether it’s tackling group projects, participating in case studies, or engaging in classroom discussions, our students thrive in an environment where collaboration is not only encouraged but celebrated.

Emiko FitzGerald, Executive MBA Class of 2023, made strong connections while at McCombs. Recognized as one of Poets & Quants’ Best & Brightest in 2023, Emi actively contributed to the graduate community as the Communications Chair for Graduate Women in Business, while also serving on the McCombs Ambassador Committee. Additionally, she excelled as a McCombs+ Leadership Fellow and engaged in a high-impact Go-To-Market Consulting Project with Stripe. Emi’s dedication extended beyond campus as she served as a mentor in the Global Sports Mentoring Program.

“One of the main reasons I chose the McCombs Executive MBA program was for the diverse cohort in geography, backgrounds and networking. It is as advertised and my professional network is exponentially stronger because of it. In the Executive MBA program, students come from different backgrounds and different strengths.Those stronger in finance helped those who didn’t have as much experience in finance classes (like me). But when it came time for marketing classes, I could tap into my strengths and experiences to help students with less familiarity in the subject. Everyone helped each other become stronger in the subject matter rather than compete.”

Supportive Environment

Another key aspect of the Texas McCombs Executive MBA experience is the unwavering support provided by our faculty, staff, and fellow students. From day one, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a community of individuals who are invested in your success. Whether it’s offering mentorship, providing resources, or simply lending an empathetic ear, our community is here to support you every step of the way. No matter the challenges you may face, you can count on your Texas McCombs family to have your back.

Emi and her Executive MBA classmates for the Executive MBA Women’s Empowerment Summit.

Emi (center) and her classmates and co-organizers of the first Women’s Empowerment Summit for Executive MBA.

A group of women in my cohort wanted to do more for our Graduate Women in Business chapter and celebration of International Women’s Day. The program staff worked alongside us to create a GWiB Women’s Empowerment Summit by helping us secure rooms, drum up publicity, bring speakers to campus and partner with other McCombs departments. They recognized the important role of women in business and were creative in their resources and time to support us. It was a defining moment for me in my McCombs journey!

Lifelong Friendships

Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of the Executive MBA journey is the lifelong friendships you’ll forge along the way. As you navigate through the program together, sharing triumphs and overcoming obstacles, you’ll develop bonds that extend far beyond the classroom. These connections aren’t just limited to your time in the program; they continue to grow and flourish long after graduation. Whether you’re celebrating career milestones, seeking advice, or simply catching up over coffee, your Texas McCombs classmates will always be there, ready to support and uplift you.

In the year since graduation, I’ve kept up with a number of colleagues through family meet ups, rounds of golf, discussions about new business ideas and phone calls. One colleague was recently promoted and building out his marketing department, so another marketing-focused classmate and I have been a sounding board for him. We are cheering each other on from various corners of society.

Emi and some of her classmates from the Executive MBA Class of 2023 and 2024.

An Added Bonus

While pursuing your Executive MBA at Texas McCombs, you’re not just investing in your education and career advancement; you’re also gaining access to a vibrant and supportive community that will enrich your life in countless ways. From collaborative projects to lifelong friendships, the value of our community extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. So if you’re considering taking the next step in your career, why not choose a program that not only offers academic excellence but also fosters a culture of collaboration, support, and lifelong connections? Join us at Texas McCombs, where your success is our top priority, and where the power of community is truly transformative.

Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events or take a peek into student life on Instagram. For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to the MBA Admissions Team. We look forward to connecting with you on your journey to success.

Hook ‘Em!

5 Reasons to Pursue an Executive MBA at Texas McCombs

April 23, 2024 / hrc754 / 0 Comments

You’ve been in the game for a while, building your expertise and making your mark. Now it’s time to make a change. Welcome to the Texas McCombs Executive MBA program, designed for seasoned professionals with robust leadership experience, and a place to enjoy the benefits of an internationally ranked business school without losing any career momentum. Through a blend of dynamic, in-person classroom sessions and experiential learning opportunities, the program equips executives with the knowledge and insights necessary to address complex business challenges confidently. Here, we embrace the Texas motto of friendship, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and placing emphasis on connections and bonds forged within the McCombs community in Texas and around the country. Let’s explore the top 5 reasons why pursuing an Executive MBA at Texas McCombs can be your catalyst for unparalleled career advancement and personal development.

#1. Connect with a Community of High Impact Business Leaders Every Month

At the heart of Texas McCombs lies a culture that thrives on three core principles: curiosity, courage, and community. This program fosters a mindset of perpetual curiosity – a hunger to explore new ideas, industries, and perspectives. With courage as the compass, students are empowered to step beyond their comfort zones, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. And through our tight-knit community, forged through shared experiences and collaborative learning, connections are cultivated that extend far beyond the classroom.

The McCombs Executive MBA program places more emphasis on leadership and strategy, preparing students for conversations with high-level leaders and board members. We go beyond traditional business education by integrating a dedicated leadership development class into our curriculum starting day one. This class provides students invaluable time and specialized resources to sharpen their leadership abilities, something that may be difficult for seasoned professionals to incorporate into their busy lives. By prioritizing leadership development and providing a supportive environment for growth, the Executive MBA program ensures students are equipped with both technical and interpersonal business acumen, as well as the management-skills successful executives employ to drive positive change in their organizations and beyond.

**#2. Enjoy an Unrivaled Return on Investment (and Interactions – in Austin, New York, Dallas, and DC!)**

When considering the return on investment (ROI) of pursuing an Executive MBA, Texas McCombs stands out as an unrivaled choice, offering a unique blend of tangible and intangible returns. Ranked No. 15 among Executive MBA programs (U.S. News and World Report, 2024), Texas McCombs boasts a stellar reputation for delivering exceptional quality education equipping you with the skills and insights needed to thrive at the highest levels of leadership in today’s competitive business landscape.

The return on investment is more than financial achievement. Here, it’s also about forging enduring relationships within a unique cohort, finding support through life’s milestones, and becoming a part of a vibrant community where classmates contribute to each other’s personal and professional growth. The Executive MBA experience is designed to maximize the return on interactions, offering a variety of opportunities to engage with peers and alumni across all Texas McCombs MBA programs through tailored programming. Executive Immersions, available solely in the EMBA program, engage executives with McCombs’ network in key locations such as New York, Dallas, DC and abroad! With a network boasting over 100,000 McCombs alumni worldwide, students gain extensive exposure to various industries, geographics, and backgrounds, enriching their learning experience and networking opportunities.

Through these interactions, students gain a wealth of perspective, experience, and insights that enrich their learning journey and broaden horizons. Whether collaborating on group projects, engaging in discussions, or networking with industry leaders, every interaction becomes an opportunity of growth and discovery. This exposure enriches the learning experience and enhances marketability, positioning students for accelerated growth and success.

#3. Gain Career Momentum and Mobility

For many Executive MBA students, the decision to pursue advanced education stems from a desire to propel their careers forward, to break free from stagnation and pursue new opportunities. We’ve witnessed countless success stories from students who have not only enhanced their current roles but also made significant career transitions, switching functions, industries, or companies.

Take, for example, the Executive MBA Class of 2023, which saw a roughly doubled the number of people in executive roles within three months of graduation. Within the same time, 69% of the class achieved employment change, primarily driven by job level promotion.

These achievements underscore the effectiveness of our general management curriculum, which equips students with the business acumen and strategic mindset necessary to navigate complex challenges and seize emerging opportunities. By fostering a culture of empowerment and instilling a growth mindset, students gain the confidence and skills needed to chart new paths and embrace change mid-career.

#4. Networking, Networking, Networking

Networking is the cornerstone of success in today’s interconnected business landscape, and at Texas McCombs, immersive experiences are critical to fostering meaningful connections. Executive MBA students participate in seven dynamic Executive MBA immersions strategically spread throughout the duration of the program and designed to enhance academic learning and cultivate a strong sense of community in the cohort. From bustling cities like New York and Dallas to international destinations, each immersion blends coursework with real-world experiences, executive speakers, and networking opportunities.

The connections made during the program not only open doors to new career opportunities but also enrich the learning experience by bridging theory with real-world insights. Whether forging partnerships or seeking mentorship, the network built at Texas McCombs extends far beyond graduation, serving as a lifelong resource for growth and support.

#5. Experience a Breadth of Resources at Your Fingertips

Beyond the classroom, Texas McCombs is committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders through a comprehensive range of resources and developmental opportunities. Our two-year curriculum is meticulously crafted not only to impart knowledge but also to cultivate essential leadership skills.

In addition to our embedded leadership course, our program offers a comprehensive suite of resources, including career and specialty coaching (including topics on leadership, communication, emotional intelligence, managing teams, and setting priorities), as well as our prestigious Leadership Fellows program through McCombs+. Texas McCombs+ provides experiential learning and global programs designed to grow influential business leaders through action-based co-curricular and academic initiatives. These offerings, combined with other opportunities like the Capstone project, provide tailored support and personal and professional growth, ensuring every student emerges from the program equipped to lead with impact.

Why Executive MBA?

The Texas McCombs Executive MBA program offers seasoned professionals the opportunity to advance their careers while maintaining their momentum. With a curriculum designed to foster leadership and strategic thinking, coupled with a tight-knit community that embraces the Texas motto of friendship, the program provides a transformative experience that transcends traditional education. From immersive classroom sessions to invaluable experiential learning opportunities, Texas McCombs equips executives with the skills, insights, and connections needed to confidently tackle complex business challenges. With a strong return on investment, a focus on maximizing interactions, and a commitment to fostering career momentum and mobility, the Executive MBA at Texas McCombs opens doors to new possibilities and propels students toward their professional goals. So, is it worth it? Without a doubt. Dare to take that leap, embrace the journey, and unlock the endless possibilities that await.

Hook ‘Em!

FIRST-GEN FORWARD - Eric Martinez MBA '24

First-Gen Forward: Navigating the MBA Admissions Process – Q&A with Eric Martinez

April 19, 2024 / Texas MBA Admissions / 0 Comments

First-generation (or first-gen, for short) college students are students whose parents or guardians have not had the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree in the United States. Many students whose parents have degrees from outside of the U.S. also identify as first-gen. First-Gen Longhorns—including first-gen faculty and staff—are a fundamental part of our campus and a strong and proud part of the UT family. There are almost 10,000 first-gen college students currently enrolled at the University of Texas. That’s one in four students!

My name is Eric Martinez, and I am a member of the Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA Class of 2024. At McCombs, I was happy to have had the opportunity to contribute to student organizations that promote inclusion in our community and the workplace, such as the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, where I served as one of three liaisons, and the Engaged Queer and Ally (eQual) MBAs, where I served as co-president.

What were you doing before pursuing your MBA?

Prior to pursuing my MBA, I worked at a nonprofit association committed to advancing the field of neuroscience. While there, I gained skills in a variety of roles across program administration and digital strategy.

Where were you located before coming to Austin, TX?

Before coming to Austin, I was living in Washington, D.C.

What was your main motivation for pursuing an MBA?

After witnessing layoffs at my company in the fall of 2020, I revisited the idea that furthering my education would strengthen my candidacy for any job I might have in the future.

Having only ever worked in the nonprofit sector, I was originally interested in pursuing a Master of Public Administration but, upon doing more research, I learned the MBA could pivot my career altogether and give me the chance to work in a new sector I have never worked in before.

Why did you choose Texas McCombs for your MBA?

As a Houston native, I’ve always loved visiting Austin. So, when I sat down to do my initial research on MBA programs, I was excited to learn McCombs had one of the best MBA programs in the country.

Later, when I started to engage with members of MAC, I found students were going the extra mile to connect me with their classmates who shared similar backgrounds and career interests as me. Their transparency about their experiences in the program, their friendliness, and their willingness to help a stranger were very much appreciated.

Separately, it was easy to picture myself getting along with them both in and outside of the classroom.

Can you describe your experience applying to MBA programs as a first-gen student?

From beginning to end, applying to MBA programs was almost a two-year process for me. Once I’d learned about the value of an MBA, I spent a lot of time researching how it could help advance my career in the nonprofit sector.

Somewhere along the way, as I mentioned before, I realized the MBA could help me learn skills from the tech sector that I might later in my career bring back to a leadership position in the nonprofit sector. At that point, I started looking at which programs had a proven record of placing students into careers in the tech sector. After I’d narrowed my selections down to a handful of programs, it was time to prepare for the GMAT.

I chose to take the GMAT since I had no formal background in business, and I wanted to make up for my less than stellar undergraduate GPA. I’ve since learned that the admissions committee truly has no preference between submitting a GMAT or GRE score but, at the time, it was important to me that I at least reach the median score reported by the programs I was interested in.

After months of preparation, I finally achieved a score I was happy with and moved my focus to sourcing my letters of recommendation and writing my application essays.

Throughout this process, I was fortunate to have learned about the Consortium early enough that I could apply to multiple schools using their streamlined application. In addition to paying less in overall application fees, another perk of applying through the Consortium was that my recommenders only had to upload their letters in one place rather than each of the schools’ portals.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the MBA admissions process as a first-gen student, and how did you navigate these challenges?

I think the biggest challenge I faced during the admissions process was understanding the recruiting timelines MBA students were working with. Since my parents are educators, and since I didn’t study business during undergrad, I didn’t know, for example, that consulting recruiting started early in the fall of your first year and wrapped by the end of January.

So, when it came to writing application essays that addressed my plan A and plan B recruiting goals, it was difficult to know whether my plans made any practical sense. It was only through talking with current students that I started to create a clearer picture of recruiting timelines for myself.

Did you seek any specific support or resources during the application phase, and if so, what were they? How did these resources help you along the way?

During the application phase, I attended many events hosted by the Consortium and by Reaching Out MBA. In addition to learning about each of their partner schools’ offerings, their events also helped provide me with key insights into each schools’ culture. Additionally, both the Consortium and ROMBA were helpful in providing information about potential scholarships that could help me fund the MBA.

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How did you approach crafting your application essays, and were there any unique perspectives or strengths you brought as a first-gen applicant?

When I wrote my application essays, I was repeatedly explaining that my decision to follow a pre-med course of study during undergrad was a mistake. If I were to write them again, I think I would more elegantly explain that it was a necessary step to finding where my true strengths lie. After all, if everybody in the program had a background in business or shared the same kind of work experience, I don’t think discussions in the classroom would be nearly as engaging (or insightful.)

Can you share any tips or advice for other first-gen students who are considering applying to MBA programs? Were there any key lessons or insights you gained from the application process that you wish you had known earlier or that you believe would be helpful for other first-gen students?

Sure! I think the biggest piece of advice I have for prospective first-gen students is to make a list of all the career paths you’re potentially interested in exploring through an MBA. Then, talk to second-year students who have completed internships in those areas, and understand the responsibilities they held in those roles as well as the recruiting timelines they had to navigate. Doing these things will help you determine 1) whether a certain path is one you actually want to pursue, and 2) whether you’ll be able to explore two paths at the same time (for example, investment banking and consulting are very time intensive during the first semester.)

Lastly, one key lesson I gained from the application process is that – even if your work experience is nontraditional – there is space for you in the classroom. Don’t shy away from your unique perspective and remember that your skills are transferable to other industries.

Good luck with the application process!

Read Eric’s feature on Poets & Quants.

Hook ‘Em!

Texas McCombs MBA Insider