How to get into HBS after undergrad? (if it is actually possible)

Wildflower
Thu, 13 Nov 2008 05:51:51 +0000

“What are good reasons then? So far all I have is that I think it’s the best way to supplement the experience that I am hoping to have (which if things go well will be very good experience) without having to start a FT career then take a break. Please give examples of reasons that they would see as better ones than mine…”

You don’t know your reasons to go now? You don’t know and you expect strangers to argue your case and tell you the reasons why you should get an MBA now? I hope you realize the futility of this.

“I was simply asking why those people got in.”

I also hope you realize that chances are the people who got in don’t even know; so it follows that no one here knows. No one here works on HBS’ admissions committee. Most people here won’t have a clue, except what they read somewhere (in which case, ask them to recommend you the books) or what they were told (in which case, ask by who and when). You have to evaluate the sources. I hope you realize this.

“I was purely asking advice on how to maximise my chances.”

Again, to whom were you asking? You have to realize that most people here 1) don’t go/have gone/have any connection to HBS; and 2) most people on this forum are in favor of working before getting an MBA (not sure why [except perhaps herd thinking], but that’s what they seem to believe).

The advice they (or anyone else) can give you is pretty “common-sense,” but here you go:

a) have excellent grades;
b) ace the GMAT;
c) get excellent recommendations;
d) write excellent essays (which show why you are ready for an MBA now; you have to persuade admissions); e) either do something remarkable and entrepreneurial (ie be successful) or get top internships like top investment banks or MBB consulting.

Also, HBS and Wharton have VERY different cultures. Some people at HBS would be miserable at Wharton, and vice-versa.

Good luck.