Working Professional and Executive MBA Application Tips – Page 3

Category: Working Professional and Executive MBA Application Tips (page 3 of 4)

How To Submit A Successful MBA Recommendation

The Texas McCombs Working Professional and Executive MBA applications require one professional letter of recommendation from a person who has supervised your work and/or has directly assessed your work performance during your career.

A recommendation letter is the only component of your application where you rely on someone else to provide information, so it is important that you carefully decide who you will ask to be your recommender. The Admissions Committee uses this recommendation to assess your work capabilities, such as your motivation, contribution, strengths, areas of growth, etc.

What is in the Recommendation Letter?

First of all, this is NOT the traditional letter of recommendation you typically think of where someone writes a letter on your behalf to vouch for your professional performance. Texas McCombs uses the GMAC Common Letter of Recommendation. Your recommender will receive a link to assess specific competencies/traits and answer three short-response questions.

Keep in mind that while there are other programs using this form, some schools will ask a different series of questions. If you’re applying to more than one MBA, you may be asking your recommender to separately fill out different forms. Make sure they do not copy and paste their responses.

Who should write your MBA Recommendation?

Circumstances differ for every applicant and deciding who you should ask might vary. Below are some scenarios to help guide you in choosing the best recommender for your MBA application.

Your Supervisor
Your current direct supervisor is traditionally the best choice. This is likely the person in your network that knows your strengths and weaknesses better than anyone else and can speak to your professional capabilities.

However, in some instances, your current supervisor may not be a viable option for you. Perhaps you aren’t able to communicate to your employer that you’re applying to business school or you do not work with your direct boss that closely. It could also be that you attained a new role recently and your current supervisor has not had a chance to work with you very long. Or, you’re an entrepreneur and don’t have a supervisor.

All of these are valid reasons to look for other recommendation sources. If you choose to request a different recommender than your current supervisor, please explain your choice in the Optional Essay.

Your Former Supervisor
If you cannot ask your current direct supervisor to write your recommendation, maybe you can ask a previous supervisor? Depending on how recently you worked with them, the “old boss” may be the best choice, especially if you had a strong professional relationship with that person. This is the most common alternative option.

Your Indirect Supervisor
Asking an indirect supervisor can be another option, especially if you’ve worked with this person closely on long-term projects or significant assignments. This is a nice alternative to a supervisor that you may not work with closely.

Your Client or Vendor
This recommendation source is typically useful for entrepreneurs or for applicants who work for a family business. If you work for a family business, it is preferred that you ask an individual outside of your family to write your letter of recommendation.

Mentor or Other Options
Mentors can be from inside or outside of your workplace who have a clear understanding of your professional value. Also, there are many individuals who may fall in the category of “other recommenders.” For example, a former professor, a colleague, or a coach. However, be sure that the person you select has worked with you on measurable tasks and understands your professional experiences to ensure they will provide a recommendation with depth. This is the least preferred option by the admissions committee.

Other Tips:

Don’t focus only on title – the CEO of a large company may sound like an impressive recommendation, but unless they work with you closely, the recommendation letter will likely fall short of delivering the information that the Admissions Committee is looking for.
Steer clear of asking a direct report (someone who reports up to you) to submit a letter of recommendation.

When it comes to other options, use your best judgment. An undergraduate professor may not be the best person to address some of the questions posed on the recommendation form and the Admissions Committee is looking mainly at your post-undergraduate work experience.

You’ve chosen a recommender. What’s next?

First, before asking your recommender to take this on, keep in mind that they are likely a busy individual – be sure to give them plenty of notice prior to the application deadline.

Secondly, give them a heads-up about your request. You don’t want to blindly email someone and ask them to write something for you without having a conversation. It may be a good idea to revisit certain projects you worked with them on. Most importantly, explain to your recommender why you’re pursuing an MBA. Giving them some context behind your ask will go a long way and will likely result in a stronger letter.

Finally, make sure you give them all the information on the recommendation before you ask, especially the timeline for when you will be submitting your application. Let them know they will be receiving a link to fill out the recommendation, and that they do NOT need to write a supplemental letter.

If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Join us at an upcoming event to connect and learn more about Texas McCombs. Please sign up for MBA news and follow us on Instagram at @UTexasMBA to stay updated.

Hook ’em!

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Completing the Executive MBA Video Assessment and Interview

November 3, 2022 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

Getting to Know our Candidates: Executive MBA Video Assessment and Interview

Shortly after you submit your MBA application and your application fee is paid or waived, you will receive two “action requested” emails – one pertains to your Video Assessment, and the other to your Interview.

All Executive MBA applicants are required to complete both the Video Assessment and the MBA Interview in order to complete the application process.

The Video Assessment and Interview are two opportunities to share your story and tell us why you chose McCombs in your own voice.

Video Assessment

This application requirement helps the Admissions Committee better understand who you are in your own voice and allows us to assess your communication skills. All applicants have seven days to complete the assessment upon receiving access to the video submission platform. The Video Assessment has four question prompts and will take between 20 – 30 minutes to complete. Applicants will be allowed to practice before submitting their Video Assessment and will have between two and three minutes to answer each prompt, depending on the question.

Within the Video Assessment we are evaluating the following competencies for every Texas McCombs Executive MBA student:

Leadership
We are looking for well-rounded individuals who have a wealth of knowledge and life experience in informal or formal leadership positions. Consider how you’ve added your own unique perspective and skill set when engaged in the pursuit of leading others.

Collaboration
We’re looking for applicants who excel at collaboration with their active listening skills and empathy. They easily see others’ perspectives and are slow to judge, creating an inclusive space to solve problems as a team. They value team wins over their own.

Coachability
We’re looking for applicants who are coachable, demonstrated by their growth mindset, acceptance of constructive criticism, and dedication to continuous self-improvement. They’re adaptable in the face of unexpected challenges and remain positive. They’re curious, exhibited by their willingness to learn from others.

Problem Solving/Enterprising Spirit
The ideal applicant has the ability to think on their feet, remaining composed and clearly articulating their thought processes when faced with ambiguous, complex problems. They see the broader picture when problem-solving, showing creativity and resourcefulness in identifying viable approaches before reaching an informed decision

Tips for Completing Your Video Assessment

Practice: You will have the ability to practice responding to test questions for as long as you wish. Practicing helps you become more comfortable with the technology when answering the real prompts.
Test Technology: Virtual Assessments are conducted through the Kira platform. It will require a desktop or laptop computer (no iPhones/iPads) with a functioning webcam, microphone, and internet connection. We recommend connecting directly to your internet for the most reliable internet connection – and make sure you have plenty of charge on your laptop or that you are plugged in! Most browsers are compatible (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera) but the platform will not work well on Safari.
Pace Yourself: Videos have a time limit. Keeping responses concise, yet clear, is important. However, make sure you are answering the question in full. Those practice questions will be a great way to gauge what three minutes actually feels like when responding to a question. And don’t feel compelled to use the entire time limit if your response can be achieved in less time.
Be Professional, but Loosen Up: If you still find yourself nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a partner/friend and ask them how you did. Did you answer the question? Did you rush through it? Take a moment to outline your answer in your mind first, and then address it calmly and confidently.  Don’t get too comfortable, though. While we’re an easy-going group, maintaining an appropriate level of professionalism is always a good idea. This includes professional language and attire.

MBA Interview

The Interview provides an opportunity for you and a member of the Admissions Committee to have a one-to-one conversation about you and your MBA candidacy. It’s a chance for us to get a deeper understanding of your readiness for the demands of this rigorous program, as well as how you will contribute to and engage with the Executive MBA cohort.

Similar to the Video Assessment, we’re assessing your verbal communication skills and your professional presence. Interviews are mostly conducted via Zoom, with periodic opportunities for in-person interviews during campus visit events. The interview lasts 30 minutes total, including time for your specific questions.

Tips for Completing Your MBA Interview

Be On Time: Arriving on time is “Interviewing 101,” yet it still manages to trip up even the most prepared of candidates. Please follow all the instructions in your confirmation email about how to connect with your interviewer via Zoom. If you’re interviewing on campus, scope out the location of the MBA Program Office in advance.
Test Technology (virtual interviews only): Virtual interviews are being conducted through Zoom. If you don’t have one already, create a Zoom account. You’ll want to find a good space to conduct your interview, ideally with good lighting, stable internet, and access to a plug. We recommend connecting directly to your internet for the most reliable internet connection.
Pace Yourself: Come prepared with examples for behavioral-type interview questions. And just like we recommend for the Video Assessment, keep your responses concise, yet clear. Make sure your examples answer the question in full.
Be Professional but Loosen Up: Given McCombs’ and Austin’s collegial and laid-back culture, our interviews are relatively informal.  If you find yourself nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend or colleague and ask them how you did. Did you answer the question? Did you rush through it? Take a moment to outline your answer in your mind first, and then address it calmly and confidently.
Know What We’re Looking For: We listen for confidence, clear and concise communication of career goals, concrete examples of teamwork and leadership, in-depth knowledge of our MBA program, and overall genuine enthusiasm.
Come with questions: You’ll have about 10 minutes for questions with your interviewer, so please come prepared with 2 or 3 questions.

Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events. Check out our Application Process page for more information on application components. Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Good luck and Hook ’em!

Interviewing for a Working Professional MBA Program

November 1, 2022 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

After you submit your MBA application, the next step in the application process is your admissions interview. For the 2022-23 admissions cycle, all applicants for the MBA at Dallas and MBA Houston programs will be interviewed. All interviews will be conducted virtually.

Working Professional MBA Interviews

For our Working Professional MBA programs–Evening MBA, MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth, and MBA at Houston–interviews will be conducted by a member of the Admissions Committee.

You will receive an interview invitation that will allow you to select an interview time slot that works with your schedule. Be sure to schedule it as early as you can.

Interview invitations typically come within two weeks of your application submission. Be sure to check your email (and your spam folder) regularly after you submit your application, so you can secure your preferred time slot.

An Un-Biased Approach

Going into each interview, our interviewers have limited access to anything about you or your application, except for your resume. (It’s always a good idea to have a copy of your resume on-hand during the conversation.)

All of our interviewers are fully trained on conducting interviews that are professional, fair, impartial, and helpful. Interviews typically last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

Most interviews follow the general framework of introductions, questions from the interviewer for you to answer, then leave time at the end for you to ask questions about the program and/or application process.

Top Tips

The interview is your official opportunity to share your story, provide examples, and tell us why you chose McCombs like no one else can. Some applicants anticipate an interview and feel nervous, which is natural. If you are nervous, here is some key advice:

Be On Time: Arriving on time is “Interviewing 101,” yet it still manages to trip up even the most prepared of candidates. Please follow all the instructions in your confirmation email about how to connect with your interviewer.
Test Technology: Virtual interviews are being conducted through Zoom. If you don’t have one already, create a Zoom account. You’ll want to find a good space to conduct your interview, ideally with good lighting, stable internet, and access to a power source.
Pace Yourself: You’d be surprised how many times, at the end of an applicant’s long answer, we are asked to repeat the original question. Most often this happens to people who try to put too much into the first answer for fear of not being given an opportunity later on to address their prepared examples. Don’t worry, you will have time to get to it. Plus, there is often an opportunity at the end of an interview to mention anything you didn’t address in the formal line of questioning.
Be Professional But Loosen Up: Given our program’s famously friendly culture, our interviews are relatively informal.  If you are nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend and ask them how you did. Did you answer the question? Did you rush through it? Take a moment to outline your answer in your mind first, and then address it calmly and confidently.  Don’t get too comfortable, though. While we’re an easy-going group, maintaining an appropriate level of professionalism is always a good idea. This includes professional language and attire, as if you were interviewing for a job.
Know What We’re Looking For: We listen for confidence, clear and concise communication of career goals, concrete examples of teamwork and leadership, in-depth knowledge of our MBA program, and overall genuine enthusiasm.  Also, the interview can be a place to showcase secondary skills that are difficult for us to determine solely based on your application: interview skills, self-awareness, communication style, and “hire-ability.” Keep these in mind so we can get a feel for your application’s intangibles.
Come with questions: A good list of questions for your interviewer can illustrate a few key things about you as a candidate: You’ve done your research, you care about our program, you have envisioned yourself as an MBA student, and you can formulate coherent thoughts under pressure. We usually leave anywhere from 10-15 minutes for questions, so limit your list to 2-3 good ones and have a few backups.

Take advantage of this opportunity. It can be just the thing the Admissions Committee needs to understand your application’s elements and gives us the chance to get to know you better!

Hook ’em!

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Working Professional and Executive MBA Essay Questions

October 18, 2022 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

Your MBA application essays are an important part of sharing your unique story with the Admissions Committee. The most successful essays will thoughtfully address the prompts, clearly communicate why you want to attend Texas McCombs, and authentically share who you are.

There are TWO required essays for the Working Professional MBA and only ONE required essay for the Executive MBA. Additionally, you can provide an optional essay if there is something you wish to explain about your candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere in your application.

Texas McCombs MBA Essay 1 – Working Professional MBA only

Evening MBA, MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth, MBA at Houston

We want to get to know you beyond your resume and professional experience. Tell us about yourself. You can discuss your upbringing, core values, formative experiences, special talents/interests, etc. Feel free to be creative and share anything that you think the Admissions Committee will find interesting. Select only one communication method for your response.

Write an essay (250 words)

Share a video introduction (one minute in length)

First, this prompt is purposely open-ended. It grants you the freedom to introduce yourself in a way that is genuinely “you.” Think about what defines you, what energizes you, or an event that has shaped or influenced who you are today. We want to see what drives you outside of your work and career, and that you are well-rounded and have passions in your personal life.

Don’t forget about the first sentence of the prompt: “We want to get to know you beyond your resume and professional experience.” The Admissions Committee has already read the rest of your application (resume, transcript, recommendation letter, etc.). We want to better understand you outside of your professional life.

Finally, the choice is yours: written essay or video. We have seen significant success with both mediums and do not have a preference for one over the other. Therefore, play to your strengths! If your skill is in writing, focus on the essay. Make sure there is clear organization and a flow to your essay. If you’re not shy in front of a camera, then record a video. However, for the video submission, we do not advise submitting a photo slideshow; this doesn’t allow the admissions committee to actually see and hear from you, which is really what we are looking for in a video submission. Have fun with either submission and do not take this essay for granted— it can go a long way in setting the stage for your MBA application and creating another great impression.

Texas McCombs MBA Essay 2 – Working Professional and Executive MBA

Essay Two provides an opportunity to explain why you want an MBA and why you’re excited about Texas McCombs.

Take time to reflect on your MBA journey and the direction you want to take in your professional career. Explain how the Texas McCombs MBA program will help you realize your professional goals, and how you will contribute to the McCombs MBA community. (500 words)

In your response, we want to understand why the Texas McCombs MBA is right for you, your aspirations and career plans, and how you want to develop yourself both in and out of the classroom. What resources, organizations, classes, and experiential opportunities specifically relate to your career plan?

TIP: Connect the dots between your career goals and how McCombs will get you there.

By answering the second part of the prompt, we will learn what you will bring to the program to make it better than when you arrived. How do you envision yourself becoming an active member of our MBA community? Do you plan on being an active member or leader of a student organization, or even starting a new club? Let us know!

Make sure to give us specifics. If you’ve engaged with the program, you know there is a lot to look forward to: challenging classes, organizations, student/alumni networking, award-winning professors, unique career-oriented opportunities…the list goes on. Illustrate what attributes of the program you plan to take full advantage of and how you plan to make a positive impact while you are a student. What will be your MBA legacy? Convince us that you have a unique contribution and are indispensable to our community.

MBA Optional Statement – Working Professional and Executive MBA

Please provide any additional information you believe is important or address any areas of concern that you believe will be beneficial to MBA Admissions in considering your application (e.g. gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances). If living outside of the metro area that the program is held in, please provide an explanation regarding your plans to commute or relocate to the program location. (250 words)

Optional statements should focus on filling gaps or answering questions we are likely to have about you and your candidacy. Remember that it is just that – optional. Only applicants who feel some piece of their profile deserves more explanation should submit an optional statement. This section of the application is not to tell us more about your extracurricular activities or expand upon your personal or professional introduction. While we love to see how excited you are to share additional information with us, the bottom of your resume or your interview are likely better ways to let the Admissions Committee know about additional projects or information.

Our Top Essay Writing Tips

Take time to reflect, brainstorm, write, and rewrite. It will likely take more than one draft to realize your final submission.
Stay on prompt. Make sure you are completely addressing the essay question prompts. If you bypass the actual questions in an effort to tell us something you think we want to hear, you will not provide the information we are looking for. This includes sticking to the word counts and time limits that are given.
Keep in mind the reader. They are reading your entire application including your essays, so do not re-use content from one essay to another or assume the reader knows the professional acronyms or jargon from your job.
Don’t copy and paste. Do not use the same content for multiple business schools. We can always spot recycled content.
Be honest. These essays are our way to learn more about you. Our community values authenticity and we look for essays that reflect your authentic self.
Edit and revise. Have someone you trust read over your essays. Those closest to you can provide valuable insights, feedback, and perspectives as you highlight your personal gifts and qualities.

We hope these insights were helpful and gave you some ideas to think about when writing (and rewriting) your essays. Good luck and happy applying!

Please email us if you have any questions. Join us at an upcoming event to connect and learn more about Texas McCombs. Please sign up for MBA news and follow us on Instagram at @UTexasMBA to stay updated.

Hook ’em!

Texas McCombs Weekend MBA Application Now Open

Start Your Weekend MBA Application Today

October 10, 2022 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

The application for the Texas McCombs Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and MBA at Houston programs is open! Start your application today to be a part of the next century of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

APPLICATION COMPONENTS FOR THE 2022-2023 ADMISSIONS CYCLE

Our Admissions Committee dedicates itself to a diligent, holistic review of each application. Our objective is to determine if you are a good fit for Texas McCombs and ensure that we are the right school for you and your goals. There are no fixed criteria or weighted portions of the application. The following application components will be required this cycle:

Standardized Test (GMAT, GRE, Executive Assessment) or merit-based test waiver
Undergraduate transcripts and graduate transcripts (if applicable) – must be offical and issued in the last 12 months. International transcripts must include mark sheets, degree certificate, and English translation if applicable.
Resume
One Professional Recommendation
Two Written Essays
MBA Admissions Interview

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Applications for the Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and MBA at Houston programs are accepted in four rounds, and the program enrolls annually every August. Applications should be submitted by 11:59 PM Central Time on the deadline date for each round. Applications are accepted and evaluated on a rolling basis, with a 4 – 6-week turnaround for a decision.

Round 1 Deadline
Application Due: October 25, 2022
Decision Delivered: December 2, 2022

Round 2 Deadline
Application Due: February 14, 2023
Decision Delivered: March 31, 2023

Round 3 Deadline
Application Due: April 4, 2023
Decision Delivered: May 12, 2023

Round 4 Deadline
Application Due: May 30, 2023
Decision Delivered: July 14, 2023

TESTING REQUIREMENTS AND WAIVERS

Applicants have several options when considering how to complete the standardized test requirement in their application.

All applicants are required to submit a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) score. We will waive the testing requirement if:

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

Standardized exams like the GRE, GMAT, and EA help us to evaluate a candidate’s academic preparedness for the rigor of business school and is also one metric used to compare candidates within a large pool of applicants. However, there are some scenarios where a candidate’s application might shine without the standardized test.

Learn more about the criteria required to apply for a general test waiver.

SUBMITTING YOUR ESSAY

The essay is a critical means of assessing an applicant’s motivation for attending the McCombs School of Business, their background and goals, and their communication and writing skills. Strong applications convey careful research on Texas McCombs and enthusiasm for the program.

The essay prompts for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle are as follows:

We want to get to know you beyond your resume and professional experience. Tell us about yourself. You can discuss your upbringing, core values, formative experiences, special talents/interests, etc. Feel free to be creative and share anything that you think the Admissions Committee will find interesting. Select only one communication method for your response.

Write an essay (250 words)

Share a video introduction (one minute in length)

Take time to reflect on your MBA journey and the direction you want to take your professional career. Explain how the Texas McCombs MBA program will help you realize your professional goals, and how you will contribute to the McCombs MBA community. (500 words)

Additionally, and if applicable, applicants can provide an optional statement in the essay section of the application. Applicants should only provide an optional statement if there is something they wish to explain about their candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere.

Learn more about submitting your essay.

MBA ADMISSIONS INTERVIEW

Every MBA candidate will complete an interview with a member of the Admissions Committee. Expect to receive an email with a link to the online schedule after your application fee is reconciled.

Please note: All MBA Admissions interviews are currently being conducted virtually until further notice.

Learn more about the MBA Interview.

The Weekend MBA 2022-2023 Application is open! Please sign up for MBA news and follow us on Instagram at @UTexasMBA to stay updated.

Join us at an upcoming event to connect and learn more about Texas McCombs.

Hook ’em!

Texas McCombs MBA Insider

Category: Working Professional and Executive MBA Application Tips (page 3 of 4)