Forging genuine partnerships and building connections is an intrinsic part of the human experience. We’re social beings who thrive through collaboration, dialogue and shared experiences. Yet, when it comes to applying to business schools, many MBA applicants overlook this crucial aspect of their journey. The process can feel solitary—just you and your application form. However, […]
Forging genuine partnerships and building connections is an intrinsic part of the human experience. We’re social beings who thrive through collaboration, dialogue and shared experiences. Yet, when it comes to applying to business schools, many MBA applicants overlook this crucial aspect of their journey. The process can feel solitary—just you and your application form. However, building connections and networking with people within your target schools can significantly enhance your application process and increase your chances of finding a program that aligns with your personal and professional goals.
The beauty of building connections with faculty, current students, alumni, and broader affinity groups lies in the diverse perspectives you’ll gain. These relationships offer more than just insights into your target schools—they help you develop lasting connections that can lead to new friendships, career opportunities, and an enriching MBA experience. In this blog, we’ll explore several practical tips on how you can start building these valuable connections before even setting foot on campus.
With the advent of virtual platforms, MBA applicants no longer need to physically visit campuses to establish meaningful connections. The COVID-19 pandemic may have accelerated this shift, but the practice is here to stay. Now, prospective students can attend virtual information sessions, webinars, and even mock classes without ever leaving their homes.
Many business schools offer regular virtual events hosted by the admissions office, academic departments, and student-run clubs. These virtual events are designed to introduce prospective students to the school’s culture, academic offerings, and community. Not only can you ask questions about the curriculum and student life, but you can also gauge whether the school aligns with your professional goals.
A quick visit to the school’s website should reveal an array of upcoming virtual events, conferences, and open houses. If an event piques your interest, don’t hesitate to reach out to the organizers if you have questions or want to participate. Virtual events can be excellent for building connections faculty members, alumni, and current students—all of whom can provide first-hand insights into life at the school.
This digital-first world has democratized the process of networking, offering applicants endless opportunities to build connect, ask questions and learn. By participating in these virtual spaces, you show a proactive commitment to the school and gain an authentic understanding of what the MBA experience will be like.
Every MBA program offers a wide array of student-run clubs and extracurriculars. These organizations play an essential role in shaping the social and academic fabric of the school. Whether you’re passionate about entrepreneurship, healthcare, or environmental sustainability, chances are there’s a club for you.
Start by exploring the websites of your target schools and identifying the clubs that match your interests. Next, look for the co-presidents or club leaders and reach out to connect to them. Many times, their contact details will be available online, and if not, a quick LinkedIn search can help you connect.
When you reach out, be polite and professional. Ask if they’d be willing to spare 15–20 minutes to chat about their experience at the school. These conversations can provide you with unique insights that may not be covered in glossy brochures or official webinars. Plus, by connecting with student leaders, you demonstrate your enthusiasm and initiative to build relationships—qualities that stand out during the admissions process.
Additionally, student leaders can sometimes offer behind-the-scenes information about upcoming projects or initiatives within the school that you wouldn’t learn about otherwise. These chats can be a way to figure out if the club culture suits your personality and whether it aligns with your long-term goals.
Alumni are a treasure trove of knowledge when it comes to learning about life after business school. They can offer valuable perspectives not just about the MBA program, but also about how their education helped shape their career trajectory.
While connecting to alumni may feel intimidating, don’t let that stop you. Most alumni are incredibly generous with their time and are more than willing to share their experiences with prospective students. Their insight can help you understand the post-MBA job market, the value of the school’s network, and even the social dynamics of the program.
If you don’t have direct access to MBA almni in your personal or professional network, don’t hesitate to connect to the admissions office for help. Many schools are happy to connect prospective students with alumni from their field or industry. LinkedIn is also a powerful tool for building connect with alumni who work in your desired industry or share a similar background.
The key here is to approach these conversations with curiosity and respect. Explain that you’re in the exploratory phase of your MBA journey and are eager to learn more about the program from someone who’s been through it. Alumni can offer advice on how to make the most of your MBA experience and even point you in the direction of specific opportunities or clubs you might not have considered.
National affinity groups such as Forte Foundation, Prospanica, and ROMBA (Reaching Out MBA) are invaluable resources for prospective MBA applicants looking to connect with like-minded individuals. These organizations often build connect and partner with top business schools to offer mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and even exclusive admissions events.
By joining these groups, you open yourself to a community of professionals who share your background, interests, or goals. Many affinity groups host annual conferences, where MBA applicants can network with school representatives, current students, and alumni in person or virtually. These conferences often provide intimate, off-the-record conversations about what life at different business schools is really like. In addition to networking, joining an affinity group allows you to tap into mentorship opportunities. Mentors from these groups can offer personalized advice on how to navigate the MBA admissions process, manage work-life balance during business school, and position yourself for success after graduation.
Networking doesn’t end once you’ve had an initial conversation. Follow up with the people you connect with—whether alumni, faculty, or current students. Send a polite thank-you email after your meeting or virtual session, expressing your gratitude for their time and insights. You might even share how their input has influenced your MBA application process or decisions if appropriate.
Remember, every connection you make is a potential stepping stone not only for your MBA journey but also for your future career. Whether it’s online, on campus, or at a national conference, take advantage of every opportunity to build connect with people who can offer you guidance, perspective, and support. These conversations might make all the difference in finding the right MBA program for you.
In conclusion, building meaningful connections is a powerful tool in your MBA journey. From faculty to students, alumni, and affinity groups, these networks can offer you deeper insights into programs, enrich your application, and help you discover where you truly belong. So don’t be shy—reach out, network and embrace the opportunities that come your way. These connections can make all the difference in your business school experience and beyond.
Ready to enhance your MBA application journey? Don’t do it alone! Start building genuine connections today by networking with your target schools’ faculty, students, and alumni. Leverage virtual platforms, attend events, and connect with affinity groups to uncover unique insights and foster meaningful relationships that can guide you toward the right MBA program. Your future network is waiting—take the first step now! For more such tips and resources contact Onwardo and don’t forget to evaluate your profile on the evaluation tool.
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IMS and Manya Education, India’s leading test prep and admission consulting firms, have come together to build Onwardo, an admission consultancy that has guided thousands of aspirants to international programs, that perfectly match their ambitions, aspirations, and academic goals. Onwardo is the culmination of a legacy spanning decades and takes pride in its personalised approach to counselling.
