Texas McCombs MBA Insider

Category: Executive MBA (page 3 of 12)

Congratulations Texas McCombs MBA Class of 2023

A Message to Our Texas McCombs MBA Graduates

May 2, 2023 / / Comments Off on A Message to Our Texas McCombs MBA Graduates

Congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone in your lives! As you prepare to receive your diplomas and move on to the next chapter of your careers, take a moment to reflect on all that you have accomplished and learned during your time at Texas McCombs.

You have worked tirelessly to develop your skills, expand your knowledge, and build relationships that will last a lifetime. You have faced challenges and overcome obstacles, demonstrating your resilience, perseverance, and dedication to your goals. And finally, you have made an indelible mark on the Texas McCombs community, leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations of MBA students.

As you step out into the world as an alumnus, know that you carry the values and traditions that make Texas McCombs so special. You are part of a proud and accomplished network of leaders and innovators who are making a difference in every industry and city around the globe.

American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and businessman John Paul DeJoria, will address Class of 2023 graduates at the McCombs School of Business MBA Convocation, on May 5, 3:00–5:00 p.m. at Gregory Gym on the University of Texas at Austin campus.

Photo of John Paul DeJoria holding up a peace sign.John Paul DeJoria is widely recognized for co-founding two iconic global multi-billion-dollar-valued brands: John Paul Mitchell Systems and Patron Spirits International.

Born in Los Angeles in 1944, DeJoria grew up in a low-income household and faced numerous challenges throughout his childhood and adolescence. He is admired for his innovative and socially responsible approach to business and has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and the environment.

In 2011, Mr. DeJoria signed the “Giving Pledge” created in 2010 by Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffet. John Paul’s main philanthropic investments through JP’s Peace, Love & Happiness Foundation are focused on homelessness, food insecurity, and entrepreneurship. Mr. DeJoria endowed a chair at the University of Texas at Austin’s Dell Medical School to improve the health of people experiencing homelessness. In addition, he has made investments in housing through Mobile Loves & Fishes and the Salvation Army. He funded and created Grow Appalachia, the largest organization of its kind that helps people grow their own food and contribute to resilient food systems.

John Paul was inducted into the Texas Business Hall of Fame in 2021 for his transformational impact on the state’s economy and communities and received the Texas Medal of Arts in 2017 from the Texas Cultural Trust as Corporate Arts Patron. John Paul DeJoria’s life and career are a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the entrepreneurial spirit that Texas McCombs hopes to ignite in each of our students.

If you or your family can’t make it to Gregory Gym, tune into the MBA Commencement live stream, or join us at Rowling Hall to celebrate.

MBA commencement live stream button

Once again, congratulations on your graduation from the Texas McCombs MBA program. May this achievement be just the beginning of a long and fulfilling journey, filled with success, happiness, and endless possibilities.

Hook ’em! 🤘🎓

Picture of a man at a desk in a wheelchair smiling at a laptop in his lap. Text reads - Applying in Round 4 - Submit Today, Start Classes in August

Why It’s OK (and sometimes
better) to Submit Your MBA Application in the Final Round

May 1, 2023 / / Comments Off on Why It’s OK (and sometimes
better) to Submit Your MBA Application in the Final Round

This MBA Insider content comes from Christie Jenkins, Senior Recruiting and Admissions Officer for the Evening MBA Program.

Let’s start with a game of two truths and a lie! Can you spot the lie among the statements below?

  • Texas McCombs is always seeking the most qualified candidates for its MBA programs.
  • The Admissions Committee reviews applications holistically, considering a candidate’s academic performance, work experience, program fit, and a variety of other hard and soft skills.
  • Candidates must apply early to have the best chance at admission.

The first two statements are true. We are looking for the best people we can find, and we review a candidate’s academic profile, work history, and how a Texas McCombs MBA can help them achieve their goals.

The last statement is a myth – and it’s one of the most common misconceptions about applying to our MBA programs.

We are not simply trying to fill the next incoming class as soon as possible; we want to ensure that we have the strongest and most dynamic class we can get. Therefore, we have the same rigorous admissions standards regardless of when you apply. Often, some of our best students apply in the final round!

Depending on the format of the MBA program you are pursuing, either as a Full-Time student or in our Working Professional or Executive MBA programs, your preparation process will likely differ.

Full-Time MBA applicants are choosing to leave the workforce for two years and often relocate to a new city. These steps require advanced planning, and usually, applicants have been working towards them for months. However, there are a variety of valid reasons an applicant may wait until the final round to apply to a Full-Time MBA program. Perhaps there have been unexpected changes to your work or living situation, and suddenly, now would be the ideal time to make a move. Or, you just wrapped up a big project, and you can finally focus on submitting a top-notch application. Or maybe, you’ve only recently come to the realization that pursuing an MBA is the best next step forward to reach your goals.

Working Professional and Executive MBA candidates, who are planning to earn their MBA while continuing to work full-time, typically have a different set of considerations. Of course, you will still notify your employer of your intent to start an MBA, but you can tell them a bit later in the application process. Those conversations will center on your growth plan with your company and if they can offer schedule flexibility or financial sponsorship. You’ll also want to gain support from friends and family, and set expectations with them on how you will manage your time with your new priorities. Because Working Professional and Executive MBA students can continue working and living in the same area, they tend to apply later.

Often, it’s not clear that the time is right to pursue your MBA until later in the application cycle, and candidates don’t want to wait a year before getting started. Sometimes an application can be even stronger when you wait to submit until after you’ve landed a promotion, closed that latest deal, or had more time to prepare. The Admissions Committee recognizes this dynamic. When you’re ready to apply, we’re ready for you.

Bottom line: The best time to submit your application is when you feel ready to do so and you’re confident it will be the best representation of you and your potential in the program.

button that reads "Start or Submit Your MBA Application"

Ready to get started on your MBA journey? Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs, application components, deadlines, and upcoming events, or take a peek into student life on Instagram. Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

picture of a person smiling on computer. Text reads "Video assessment & mba interview - executive MBA"

Completing the Executive MBA Video Assessment and Interview

November 3, 2022 / / Comments Off on Completing the Executive MBA Video Assessment and Interview

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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!

person's hand holding a pencil on top of an open notebook. Text reads "Writing Your MBA Application Essays - Working Professional and Executive MBA

Working Professional and Executive MBA Essay Questions

October 18, 2022 / / Comments Off on Working Professional and Executive MBA Essay Questions

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 Executive MBA Application Now Open

Start Your Executive MBA Application Today

September 27, 2022 / / Comments Off on Start Your Executive MBA Application Today

The application for the Texas McCombs Executive MBA program is now open! Start your application today to be a part of the next century of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.  

START YOUR EXECUTIVE MBA APPLICATION

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  
  • English Proficiency Test (TOEFL, IELTS) or waiver (international students only)  
  • Undergraduate transcripts and graduate transcripts (if applicable)  
  • Resume  
  • One Professional Recommendation  
  • One Written Essay  
  • Video Assessment   
  • MBA Admissions Interview 

 APPLICATION DEADLINES  

Applications for the Executive MBA program are accepted in two 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 between rounds, with a 4 – 6-week turnaround for a decision. 

  • Round 1: February 14, 2023 
  • Round 2: May 30, 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 prompt for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle is as follows: 

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) 

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.  

VIDEO ASSESSMENT  

Texas McCombs is excited to introduce the video assessment as a new application component for the 2022-23 Executive MBA admissions cycle. 

All applicants will complete the video assessment, which will give all MBA candidates the opportunity to share their story with us in their own voice.  Through the video assessment, the Admissions Committee will have a chance to experience the “real” you, beyond what we see and read in your application. Lastly, the video assessment will enable Texas McCombs to reduce bias in the admissions process by providing all applicants with a structured and consistent assessment experience.   

MBA candidates with a submitted application, whose application fee has been paid or waived will be invited to take part in our Texas McCombs Video Assessment. The video assessment is virtual and on-demand, so applicants can complete it from anywhere in the world at a time in the day convenient to them.  

Applicants will be asked to use the video assessment tool to record responses to four questions, with each response lasting no more than three minutes each. Detailed instructions will be provided with the video assessment invitation so you know what to expect, and applicants will have the opportunity to practice as many times as they wish before completing the final video assessment.  Applicants will have seven days from the invitation to complete the final video assessment.  

This is your time to show us your personality and enthusiasm! We recommend that you prepare for the video assessment similarly to how you might prepare for an interview.  Think reflectively about your work experience, strengths, and weaknesses, and practice your delivery.  

MBA ADMISSIONS INTERVIEW  

Every Executive MBA candidate will complete an interview with a member of the Admissions Committee. The interview format is behavioral-question based and lasts 30 minutes including time for your questions. Expect to receive an email with a link to the online schedule after your application fee is reconciled. 

 The Executive 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! 

Older posts Newer posts

The Latest RSS Items

  • No items found in feed URL: http://feeds.feedburner.com/StefaniasBlog?format=xml. You requested 5 items.

    • powered by RSS Just Better 1.4 plugin

    © 2024 Texas McCombs MBA Insider

    Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑

    Skip to toolbar