Leveraging MBA Networking Events

Before attending admissions events, do some research that will lead into some juicy questions.

Don’t ask them about stats you could easily find online. Rather, ask questions that demonstrate you’ve 1) researched the program and 2) believe it is a fit, based on that research. Use that as your jumping-off point for deeper conversations. Initiate as many meaningful conversations as possible, without sacrificing quality.

After each conversation, take their business card, and write down what you discussed. Within 24 hours, email your new contact to follow up, the same way you would send a thank you note after an interview. It’s helpful to reference what was discussed, to reinforce the connection and make you more memorable. You can also ask them to set you up with a student mentor, and if possible, have them arrange a school visit. This will win a lot of points.

The biggest headache for business schools is extending offers to people who choose another school. In this way, there is a reciprocity bias. Showing a specific interest in a school will increase your chances.
You can get even more mileage out of each event by noting a meaningful piece of information in your essay; i.e., I spoke with Flor (’12) at the Buenos Aires admissions event, and she mentioned XYZ about Cornell. XYZ = something that would make me a fit at your school.

And please probably don't mention collaborative culture unless you have a specific example of what resonated with you because 99.99% of schools claim this and 99.99% of applicants state this.

If possible, reference an alumni or admissions officer conversation in your essay(s) that points to how the school is an especially strong fit with your unique career goals or values.

If you are unable to attend any events in person, make sure to subscribe to their You Tube and attend the online admissions events. If you attend an online event featuring alumni, and something they say resonates with you, message them on LinkedIn and see if you can ask questions that would help provide good responses for the essay questions around goals and contribution.

You might even ask for names of other alums in your industry or city. Get creative to show the school you are passionate about their program!

In sum: make a good impression – before and after the event!