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photo of austin skyline with text that reads "Things to Do in Austin"

Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA’s Best in Austin List – 2024

March 20, 2024 / / 1 Comment

This post is written by Noah Graham. 

Austin, Texas – a city that pulsates with energy, creativity, and a unique blend of cultures. Known for its eclectic music scene, mouthwatering cuisine, and tons of outdoor activities, Austin offers an unforgettable experience for locals, visitors, and students. Whether you’re a foodie tasting the latest culinary delights, a music lover ready to discover a new sound, or an outdoor enthusiast eager to explore the city’s natural swimming pools, Austin has something for everyone!

Our Full-Time MBA Ambassador Committee and MBA program staff compiled a list of their Top Ten Things to Do in Austin.

 

10. Blue Starlite Drive-in Theater

Cars lined up to watch a drive-in movie with the Austin skyline in the distance

Image courtesy of Visit Austin

Looking for a unique movie experience? Check out Blue Starlite Drive-In Theater! As a staple of Austin, Blue Starlite has been offering relaxing, outdoor viewings since 2009. Choose between multiple locations ranging from the quiet serenity of Central I-35 to the buzzing atmosphere of Downtown Austin. Locations offer a variety of classic films or new and recent movies! With additional indoor and easy food-delivery options, this drive-in makes for an unforgettable night.

Visit the website to learn more about showtimes and locations! Showtimes vary by location.

 

9. De Nada Cantina

An overhead view of a table of food being shared by two people. They are enjoying chips and beverages which playing with dominoes

Image courtesy of De Nada Cantina

In the mood for tacos and drinks? Check out “Austin’s Loveliest little taco spot”, De Nada Cantina! As a winner of The Austin Chronicle’s “Best of Austin” award for 2023, this spot has some of the best authentic tacos and margaritas. Stop by during Happy Hour from 3:30 – 6:30 PM  and browse the extensive drink selection or stop by close to midnight to try some of their late-night menu. When visiting Austin, you can’t miss out on De Nada Cantina.

Open from 11AM – 12AM Monday through Saturday and 11AM – 10PM on Sundays. Visit the website to see more of the amazing dishes and drinks they have to offer!

 

8. The Domain

Outdoor view of the domain. People walking in an open space with restaurants and stores along the side.

Photo Courtesy of Visit Austin.

In need of a shopping spree? Visit Austin’s premier destination for all things fashion, luxury, dining, and family fun – The Domain. This massive outdoor shopping center hosts over 100 unique shops and restaurants.  Shop the latest styles from traditional stores like H&M, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, and Zara to luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton,  Lululemon, Rolex, and more! Grab a bite to eat at Blue Sushi Sake Grill, Maggiano’s, Gloria’s, Culinary Dropout, or Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, then top off the trip with a visit to The Yard Milkshake Bar. The Domain offers an all-inclusive destination where leisure meets luxury. 

Open 10AM – 8PM Monday through Thursday, 10AM – 9PM Friday and Saturday, and 10AM – 6PM on Sundays. Visit the official website for more information on hours and the plethora of shops available.

 

7. Honeymoon Spirit Lounge

Beautiful bar with colorful furniture and moody lighting

Image courtesy of Honey Moon Spirit Lounge – Yelp

In the mood for a high-end dining experience? Visit the Honeymoon Spirit Lounge on W. 34th! Bring your friends and enjoy savory dishes such as the Seoul Hot Fried Chicken and Cider Glazed Crispy Pork Belly, or take a look at the impressive 3-page drink selection and get a custom cocktail. Boasting a beautiful array of dinner, brunch, and drink options, this beautiful restaurant has both the decor and food presentation that will leave you impressed. 

Open 4PM – 10PM Tuesday through Thursday, 4PM – 11PM Friday & Saturday, and 10:30AM – 3:30PM Brunch on Saturday & Sunday. Check out the website for more info!

 

6. Lady Bird Lake Trail & Greenbelt

Into biking? Bring some friends and visit Lady Bird Lake Trail! This 10-mile-long walking/biking trail is a beautiful way to traverse and see more of Austin. Some even use it to commute from one side of the city to the other! Along the way, you can check out Capital Cruises Bat Watching Tours, home of the largest electric paddle wheel boat in the country, and see the bat colonies under Congress Bridge. This staple of Austin is a center of fitness, fun, and community.

The Austin Greenbelt is the best location for hikers and explorers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, rock climbing, bouldering, swimming, or just casually walking. The Greenbelt got its name from the lush trees, hidden waterfalls, and swimming holes. Learn more about the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail.

 

5. Mozart’s Coffee Roasters

Get energized with Mozart’s Coffee Roasters! Located on Lake Austin, you’ll be able to enjoy their endless coffee bar and delicious custom bakery items while gazing into the beautiful Austin scenery. Come early in the day to indulge in coffee and paddleboarding or stay later to enjoy the sweet treats and live music. With consistent community events, a beautiful location, and unlimited coffee, you won’t want to miss Mozart’s.

Open 7AM – 12AM everyday. See the website for more info!

 

4. Mueller Lake Park & Farmers Market

photo of the lake at Mueller Park

Image courtesy of The Austin Things.

Step into a world of outdoor recreation and community at Mueller Lake Park! Created by the Mueller Community as a walkable town with a welcoming atmosphere, this beautiful area includes a 3-mile running trail loop, dog-friendly community park, an amphitheater, dozens of tasty restaurants like Dish Society and Colleen’s Kitchen, and happy hour spots like Blue Lacy. On Sundays, Muller Park hosts Austin’s Best Farmers’ Market with over 120 vendors of art and produce. So whether it’s food, exercise, or community you’re looking for, you’ll never run out of entertainment at Mueller Lake Park. 

Open from 5AM – 10PM every day. Farmer’s Market opened on Sundays. Visit their website to learn more about future events and nearby restaurants!

 

3. East 6th Street

A large back-patio filled with people enjoying drinks

Image courtesy of The Infatuation

Live music venue in the back porch of a dive bar.

Image courtesy of Tribeza.com / Roger Ho

Immerse yourself in the center of Austin’s busy nightlife – East 6th Street. Notorious for its abundance of trendy restaurants, mouth-watering food trucks, and lively bars, East 6th is never short of a party. Whether you’re looking for a high-class dining experience at Suerte or Canje, wanting to kick back with friends at bars like Zilker Brewing Co., Nickel City, Latchkey, and Violet Crown Social Club, or anything in between, there’s something for everyone to have a great night. It doesn’t matter if you’re an Austin local or an eager newcomer, East 6th is a place for everyone to get together and experience Austin’s nightlife culture.

Honorable Mention: Barbarella on Red River Street

“It’s a McCombs tradition to end your Thursday night dancing to 2000s music at the club affectionately known as ‘Barbs’! Stop by after your night out at the Red River Cultural District Food Court – a diverse, delicious collection of food trucks right outside.” – Colby Bermel

 

2. Kemuri Tatsu-Ya

A delicious arrangement of Japanese and Texan food.

Image courtesy of Kemuri Tatsu-Ya

Discover Austin’s very own Japanese & Texan fusion restaurant, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya! Whether it’s a savory brisket, fresh tuna collar, or chili cheese Takoyaki you’re looking for, this restaurant offers delicious Japanese flavors with a Texan twist. Don’t miss out on their wide array of expertly crafted cocktails that suit perfectly with the bold and savory dishes. With a diverse menu, extensive drink selection, and warm atmosphere, this is a place that stands out even among Austin’s already incredible food choices.

Open from 5PM – 10PM most days. Check out the website to see more about hours and menu items!

 

1. Zilker Park

Aerial view of Zilker park. A clear sky over a river that runs through a lush park

Image courtesy of nowplayingaustin

Located in the heart of Austin, Zilker Park invites you to explore its many activities! Go swimming at Barton Springs Pool, play volleyball, take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens, or see a concert at the Hillside Theater! Make sure to soak up the sun by renting a paddleboard from Zilker Boat Rentals or taking a dip in Barton Springs Pool! Not to mention, the very convenient free shuttle service! Pack your picnics, grab some friends, and immerse yourself in the spirit of Austin.

Open from 5AM – 10PM everyday. Visit the Zilker website to learn about all of its amenities.

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!

person at a laptop with a banner that reads "The MBA Application: letter of recommendation - Working Professional and Executive MBA

How to Submit a Successful MBA Recommendation Letter

September 22, 2023 / / Comments Off on How to Submit a Successful MBA Recommendation Letter

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, your previous 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) or a family member 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 before 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! 

 

person smiling and waving at a laptop. Text banner reads "THe MBA Application: Video Assessment and Interview - Working Professional and Executive MBA

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

September 14, 2023 / / Comments Off on Getting to Know our Candidates: Working Professional and 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 Working Professional and Executive MBA applicants are required to complete both the Video Assessment and the MBA Interview in order to successfully submit their application. 

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

Video Assessment 

This application requirement helps the Admissions Committee better understand your goals and the work that you do  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 4-5 question prompts and will take between 20 – 30 minutes to complete.  Applicants will be allowed to practice before beginning their video assessment and will have between two and three minutes to answer each prompt, depending on the question. You do not need to fill the full amount of time if you reach your conclusion earlier. 

The video assessment evaluates different competencies for every Texas McCombs MBA student. Below are some of the topics you may be asked about:

  • Career Goals
  • Engagement/Impact
  • Problem-Solving
  • Leadership
  • Collaboration
  • Resilience
  • Coachability

Tips for Completing Your Video Assessment 

  1. Test Technology:  Virtual Assessments require a desktop or laptop computer (no iPhones/iPads) with a functioning webcam, microphone, and internet connection. Most browsers are compatible (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera) but the platform will not work well on Safari. 
  2. 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 the response time  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.
  3. Be Professional: Approach the video assessment the same way you would a live job interview. If you wouldn’t wear a t-shirt to an in-person job interview (and you shouldn’t), then don’t for your video assessment. Ensure that there are no noise or visual distractions where you record your videos. Texas McCombs is known for its “famously friendly” culture, but we still want to be able to see your professional side. This includes your language, attire, and setting.
  4. 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. 

    Our questions aren’t meant to be a trick or to catch you off guard. If you search the internet for commonly asked MBA or business job interview questions, you will likely find variations of what we ask. Think ahead about how you will answer them. Reflect on successes or learning moments from your career that might be good examples to bring up. 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. 

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 Working Professional and 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. 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. 
  3. Come with questions: You’ll have about 10 minutes for questions with your interviewer, so please come prepared with 2 or 3 questions. 

If you have any questions during the application process, 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.  

person concentrating on work with an open laptop while writing with a pen on paper. Text reads "The MBA Application: Cover Letter - Working Professional and Executive MBA

Cover Letter for Working Professional & Executive MBA

September 5, 2023 / / Comments Off on Cover Letter for Working Professional & Executive MBA

MBA Cover Letter 

The application cover letter is a critical means of learning who you are as an applicant and assessing your writing skills. Here is your prompt.

Please write an application cover letter summarizing your aspirations, qualifications, personal and professional experiences that make you a strong candidate for the Texas MBA program you are applying to. (max 500 words)

MBA Optional Statement 

Please provide any additional information you believe is important or address any areas of concern that you believe will be beneficial to the MBA Admissions Committee in considering your application. (e.g. gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances) (250 words)  

 Honestly, the most important piece of advice we can provide you on the optional statement is to remember that it is just that– optional. Only applicants who feel some of their profile deserves more explanation should submit an optional statement.

This application section is not designed for you to tell us more about your extracurricular activities or expand upon the essay prompt. While we love to see how excited you are to share additional information with us, there are other ways to let the Admissions Committee know about additional projects or passions. Your resume and the video assessment are better forums for these additional details.

Optional statements should focus on filling gaps or answering questions we are likely to have about you.  

Tips for Writing Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter is an opportunity to sell yourself to the Admissions Committee and make your case for why you belong in our programs. The best cover letters will catch our interest immediately (please do not start with “My name is…”), will flow seamlessly from topic to topic, hit all of the points we’ve asked you to cover and wrap up with the closing thoughts you want to leave with us. We understand this is not a creative writing program, but being able to communicate your ideas clearly, succulently, and persuasively is a vital skill in business and in our classes.  

  • Be patient with yourself. Take time to reflect, brainstorm, rewrite, and EDIT. It will likely take more than one draft to craft your final submission. 
  • Don’t copy and paste. Do not use the same content for multiple business school applications or repeat things verbatim from your resume. We can always spot recycled content, and we want to know you’ve put time and care into your application. 
  • STAY ON PROMPT. Approach this as you would drafting a cover letter for a job – who are you, why do you want to come to McCombs, and how will you contribute to the program?  
  • Show your personality. The cover letter is a way to learn more about you. Our community values authenticity and we appreciate submissions that give us an understanding of who you are and what kind of student you will be.
  • Have someone you trust read over your cover letter. Those closest to you can provide valuable insights, feedback, and perspectives as you highlight your personal gifts and qualities.

We hope these insights into the written portions of our application give you some ideas to think about and some points to revisit as you write (and rewrite) your cover letter. Good luck, and happy applying! 

If you have any questions during the application process, 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.  

student on laptop with a banner reading "The MBA application: reapplying to texas mccombs"

Reapplying to Texas McCombs

August 23, 2023 / / Comments Off on Reapplying to Texas McCombs

With each new admissions cycle, questions come in from those who have applied in the past about applying again to join the next class of Texas McCombs MBAs.  

First, having applied in a previous year is not considered a negative factor in your application.

We are pleased to see your continued interest in the program and will evaluate your new application on its merits and in the context of the new applicant pool, just as if you are applying for the first time. Below is an overview of important info and tips for reapplying to the MBA program that we hope you find helpful.
 

burnt orange button that reads "watch our reapplication webinar"

Application

All candidates reapplying are required to complete a new application. We have also updated our application components to include a cover letter, video assessment, and optional peer interview. You will be required to submit these new items and pay the application fee. Our cover letter prompt has changed from last year, so copying and pasting old essay responses from a previous application cycle is not recommended. In addition, rewriting your cover letter shows effort!  

Review the application process and components 

Learn more about the new application updates 

Official Transcripts

We keep your official transcript on file for one year. You will need to submit your transcripts again if you have taken any additional coursework or if you applied more than one year ago. After you apply, you can always review your application status on the “MyStatus” page to make sure you have up-to-date transcripts.  

Test Scores

GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE and Executive Assessment scores are also kept on file for one year, and overall, scores are valid five years after the date the test is taken. Candidates also have the option to apply for a merit-based test waiver; however note that if you have already sent us official scores, we must consider them in the evaluation process. The McCombs Admissions Committee considers only the highest total submitted score in the evaluation of applications. 

Recommendation Letter   

Although not required, we suggest you submit a new letter of recommendation. Determine if another recommender may provide a more current, insightful, and thorough perspective on your experience. If you choose to submit a prior recommendation, you will need to email MBA Admissions with a request to resubmit.  

Video Assessment 

Reapplicants will be asked to complete the new 2023-2024 video assessment as part of their new application; due to differences in timing and questions, we will be unable to use any video assessments from the prior year. 

 How Have You Improved?  

While completing your application, you will be asked, “Since your previous application, what steps have you taken to enhance your candidacy?” The Admissions Committee reviews this answer closely so please ensure that you spend time reflecting on and explaining these improvements.  

Choosing to reapply to the MBA program shows perseverance and dedication. We encourage you to consider giving yourself a fresh start when you approach your new application. Think through and reassess your application, address any weak areas, and add new information that may be helpful in the admission process. 

If you have any questions during the application process, 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. 

Good luck and Hook ’em!

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