<p>For all you freshman - I wouldn’t shape my college experience on getting into a program that only accepts ~100 people. Freshman year, I would keep my grades up, try and get involved around campus, possibly secure an internship over the summer (this may not be necessary), take classes I’m interested in with professors I admire, and lay the groundwork for leadership positions later in my college career (freshman tend to have fewer leadership positions open to them, which is not a detriment).</p>
<p>I would NOT choose a major based on what I think 2+2 “wants,” start activities for the sole reason of getting into HBS, etc.</p>
<p>Sophomore year: I would continue to excel GPA-wise and focus on securing a summer internship for the summer between soph and junior year (this, I think, is key. I didn’t meet anyone at my 2+2 interview that did not have internship experience). Again, I would focus on what <em>I</em> was interested in, rather than trying to brand myself for HBS. I would get heavily involved in my campus community, perhaps take on some leadership positions in clubs or student government, etc.</p>
<p>Junior year: Obviously, this is the key year for the 2+2 program. Beyond taking the GMAT (which, as was pointed out, requires ZERO business knowledge), and maintaining a high GPA, this year, you should really define yourself in terms of leadership. Organize a speaker, become a club president/on the board, start a small business, and make sure it is something YOU are interested in, not something you think HBS wants to see. They recognize and reward passion, they are bored when they feel like you are doing it all for them. It should be for you. Craft your essays and create your brand NOW - do not try and do it in freshman year.</p>
<p>That is just my perspective as a 2+2 admit. I figure everyone admitted probably needs:
- Campus involvement
- A high GMAT/GPA (there are exceptions, of course, but these are good things to have whether you apply to 2+2 or not)
- Internship experience, in business or elsewhere - while they are trying to take some kids who wouldn’t have pursued business, and don’t want you as much if you are getting a BBA, if you have pursued business extracurriculars, it probably won’t hurt you. As an adcom said at an info session at my school, “Obviously these kids are at least a little interested in business - they’re applying to business school!”
- Solid recommendations. That is something, again, regardless of the 2+2 program, you want to have. From freshman year onward, develop a relationship with “mentors” - professors, supervisors at internships or campus jobs, etc. The longevity and impact of your relationship will go far towards their writing a stellar LOR for you.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>