Asking people who have been through something to describe it is the best way to imagine what it will be like for you. Therefore, it is important to ask current faculty, staff and students to have an accurate idea of what your MBA experience could look like. This is why it’s important to go to business schools while classes are proceeding and speak to current faculty and students. They should be capable of proving if getting an education there would be worth the investment. When you go to a business school campus, you should be ready to pose challenging questions. Here are seven examples of questions you can ask:
What surprised you most about business school?
This question is for current students. This open-ended question allows current students to share whether their MBA program met or surpassed their expectations. They can also identify where the program's sales presentation differs from the student experience. Additionally, they can also point out areas where the school could improve.
2. Is the culture of the school more collaborative or competitive?
This question is intended for current students again. It is critical for a prospective student to learn from a present student whether the school environment is competitive or supportive. For example, the advice and encouragement of your MBA classmates could help you break into a field that you've always wanted to work in. However, if you are aware that you do not perform well in a competitive setting, this could be damaging to your MBA experience.
3. Can MBA students work as research assistants for professors?
You should ask this question to a faculty member. It is possible for MBA students to receive scholarships and other forms of financial aid that include graduate assistantships. In addition, a student serving in this capacity could lend their assistance to various faculty endeavors.
4. Do you think I am a good fit for your MBA program?
This is a question for the admissions officers. MBA applicants who want to know how competitive their application is shouldn't be afraid to ask. It invites the admissions officer to provide candid assessment and strategic guidance. In a way, you have the right to interview them as much as they have the right to interview you, within reason. The compatibility between the school and the candidate is essential. The financial component of the transaction is also important.
5. What kinds of financial aid am I eligible to receive at your business school?
This is a question for Financial Aid Officers. Before narrowing down your business school options, you should inquire about financial aid. To increase your chances of receiving a scholarship, you must be able to apply to the appropriate colleges. Because you couldn't say no to the money, you might end up attending a school that wasn't your first, second, or third choice.
6. How can I become a compelling candidate for merit scholarship dollars?
This is yet another question for Financial Aid Officers to answer. Inquire about how you may strengthen your MBA application to increase your chances of receiving merit scholarships. Writing a strong application is the greatest approach to acquire a fantastic financial aid package. So keep in mind that if the school wants you, they will pay for you to attend their program.
7. How often do recent graduates work in my target industry?
This is a question for Career Service Counselors. Every business school has strengths and weaknesses. And potential MBA students must select schools whose academic strengths match their career goals. If you are interested in a specific subfield of business you should look to see if the school has a strong presence in that field. Otherwise, you may end up attending a school, spending $100,000 or more on your education, and discovering that you are not advancing in the business area that you are interested in.