In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Rachel Beck discuss the complexities of the MBA application process, focusing on what can go right and wrong. They explore the competitive nature of admissions, the importance of academic metrics, the role of recommendations, and the art of storytelling in essays. They also provide insights on how applicant…

In this episode, Harold Simansky and Christine Patel discuss the landscape of MBA programs focused on healthcare. Christine shares her background in healthcare and her experiences applying to various MBA programs, including Stanford, Wharton, and Berkeley. They explore the differences between healthcare management programs and traditional MBA progr…

In this mbaMission podcast episode, Harold Simansky interviews Kimberly Hoey, an mbaMission colleague and Kellogg MBA alum, about her experience at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. Kimberly shares that Kellogg was transformative for her, helping her pivot from finance to brand management. She highlights Kellogg's strong teamw…

In this episode of the mbaMission Podcast, Harold Simansky and Rachel Beck discuss effective strategies for MBA interviews. They emphasize the importance of authenticity, preparation, and understanding common interview questions. Rachel shares her insights from her experience as a journalist and alumni interviewer, providing practical tips for cand…

In this episode of the mbaMission podcast, Harold Simansky and Harshad Mali discuss the intricacies of the MBA admissions process, focusing on the importance of personal storytelling, overcoming demographic challenges, and the significance of fit in consultant relationships. They emphasize the need for applicants to present their unique perspective…

In this episode of the mbaMission podcast, Harold Simansky and Debbie Choy discuss the unique aspects of the MBA experience at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Debbie shares her insights on the intimate and collaborative environment at Stanford, highlighting the strong relationships formed during her time there. She also reflects on the ch…

In this episode of the mbaMission Podcast, Harold Simansky and Kim Hoey discuss the common fatal flaws that lead to rejection from business schools. They emphasize the importance of strong letters of recommendation, addressing weaknesses in applications, and focusing on results in resumes. The conversation also highlights the need for clear and log…

In this episode of the mbaMission podcast, Harold Simansky and Devi Vallabhaneni discuss the intricacies of preparing for the Harvard Business School (HBS) interview. Devi shares her personal journey with HBS, her experiences as an interviewer, and the evolution of the interview process. They delve into the importance of preparation, self-awareness…

In this episode of the mbaMission Podcast, Harold Simansky and Kate Richardson discuss the unique team-based discussion format used by Wharton for MBA admissions interviews. They explore the structure of the interview, the importance of collaboration, and strategies for success. Kate shares insights on the roles candidates can play during the discu…

In this conversation, Harold Simansky, Kate Richardson, and Katrina Evans discuss the Wharton team-based discussion, which is a unique interview format for business schools. They explain how the team-based discussions are structured and what Wharton is looking for in candidates. They also discuss the process of organizing mock team-based discussion…

In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Rachel Beck discuss Columbia Business School. Rachel shares her experience as a student and highlights the core curriculum as a valuable aspect of the program. She also emphasizes the diversity of the student body and the wide range of backgrounds and experiences represented. Columbia is often associated wi…

In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Debbie Choy discuss school selection for MBA programs. Debbie shares her experience of choosing Stanford and emphasizes the importance of being authentic in the application process. They also discuss factors to consider when selecting schools, such as geography and industry connections. Debbie dispels the m…

In this conversation, Harold Simansky interviews Kate Richardson, a University of Chicago Booth MBA, about her experience at Booth. Kate highlights the reputation of Booth as a quant powerhouse and the flexibility it offers for career changers. She also mentions the focus on entrepreneurship and experiential learning that has grown at Booth over th…

In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Rachel Beck discuss how to assess one's chances of acceptance into business school. They cover topics such as academic credentials, including GPA and university attended, the importance of standardized testing, and the value of leadership potential. They also emphasize the need to demonstrate fit with the s…

In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Kim Hoey discuss the importance of recommendations in the MBA application process. They address the question of how to handle constructive criticism in recommendations and emphasize the need for balance and authenticity. Kim shares her background and how she transitioned from investment banking to brand man…

In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Gavriella Semaya discuss how to choose an MBA admissions consultant and the qualities that make a consultant effective. They emphasize the importance of finding a consultant who works well with you and pushes you to elevate your application. They also address common questions about whether a consultant need…

In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Gavriella Semaya discuss Cornell Tech, a school that focuses on technology and entrepreneurship. They talk about the facilities and resources available at Cornell Tech, as well as the unique experiences and opportunities it offers to students. Gavriela shares her personal experience at Cornell Tech and how …

In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Gavriella Semaya discuss the topic of school selection for MBA programs. They emphasize the importance of considering both professional goals and cultural fit when choosing a school. They also highlight the value of talking to current students and recent alumni to get a better understanding of the school's …

In this episode of the mbaMission podcast, Harold Simansky and Gavriella Semaya discuss the importance of the short answer section in MBA applications. They emphasize that the short answers are not just a repetition of the information in the resume, but an opportunity to showcase the impact and significance of the applicant's experiences. They also…

In this conversation, Harold Simansky, Jessica Shklar, and Devi Vallabhaneni discuss their experiences at Harvard Business School and delve into the changes in the Harvard Business School application process, particularly the new essay questions. They provide insights into how to approach the essays and highlight the importance of showcasing leader…

Summary In this conversation, Harold Simansky interviews Nisha Trivedi, a certified business etiquette trainer and mbaMission MBA admissions consultant, about the importance of business etiquette in the MBA admissions process and in the professional world. Nisha shares her expertise on making a positive first impression, dressing appropriately for …

Summary In this conversation, Harold Simansky and Nisha Trivedi discuss The Consortium, an organization that focuses on uplifting underrepresented groups in business. They explain how candidates can apply to be considered for membership and have access to a network of companies and professionals, as well as fellowships. They also discuss the applic…

mbaMission senior MBA admissions consultant Harold Simansky talks with mbaMission executive director Katy Lewis about the important role recommendations play in business school applications, as they provide evidence of leadership, which is a key trait that top schools look for. Recommendations are like a transcript of leadership and serve as a mark…

Summary In this conversation, mbaMission Senior MBA Admissions Consultant Harold Simansky interviews Katharine Lewis, an executive director at mbaMission, about the process of applying to business school. They discuss the importance of clarifying objectives and understanding that business school is about leadership, not just business. They also tal…

Summary In this podcast episode, Senior MBA Admissions Consultant Harold Simansky and mbaMission Founder and President Jeremy Shinewald discuss the importance of recommendations in MBA applications. They highlight the common mistakes applicants make and provide tips on how to choose the right recommenders and prepare them effectively. Harold and Je…

Summary: In this episode of the mbaMission podcast, Senior MBA Admissions Consultant Harold Simansky and mbaMission Founder and President Jeremy Shinewald discuss fatal flaws in MBA applications. They highlight the importance of setting realistic and aspirational goals, demonstrating fit with the school, mitigating weaknesses, and showcasing leader…

In this episode of the mbaMission podcast, Harold Simansky, a Senior MBA Admissions Consultant at mbaMission and Jeremy Shinewald, mbaMission Founder and President, discuss the MBA admissions process. They discuss how to start the application process; including researching schools, preparing for the GMAT or GRE, and building a strong profile. They …