MBA interview season is in full swing at Chicago Booth. Even if you’ve attended your fair share of information sessions, you might still have questions about the interview process.
To help you understand what’s expected during the interview and what can you do to ensure it goes off without a hitch, a current Chicago Booth MBA student, Kate Nimmo, shared a five-point list to help you put your best foot forward. Read on for a wrap up of her key Chicago Booth MBA interview tips.
1. Breathe!
The most important thing you can do is not stress by remembering to breathe. When you slow your breathing, you decrease your heart rate and increase your relaxation. The calmer you are, the more clearly you’ll think, and the better answers you’ll give the interviewer.
2. Know Your Application and Yourself
Carefully read through your resume and essay again before your interview. Remind yourself of the answers you’ve already provided, particularly when it comes to why you’re pursuing a Chicago Booth MBA now. By knowing your story, you’ll come across as more authentic in the interview process, and you can spend your time adding to what you already know with special anecdotes.
3. Know What You Can do for the MBA Program
It’s not just about what you can get out of a Booth MBA, but what you can give to the program. As a candidate, you need to bring something to the community and the school overall. Think about how you can impact your peers and add valuable contributions to your classmates and the rest of Booth.
4. Prepare Questions in Advance
The interview is your chance to ask questions about the Booth MBA, the school, the atmosphere, and overall culture. Prepare a few questions in advance; just make sure whatever questions you prepare don’t already have easy answers. Review the school’s marketing materials and only ask things that you can’t find.
5. Create a Pre-Interview Checklist
To ensure that the day of your interview is as relaxing as possible, prepare a pre-interview checklist.
- Rest and fuel yourself with healthy food, water, and your normal level of caffeine.
- Lay out your outfit the night before.
- Know the route in advance, including where you’ll park, what building you have to visit, and the room inside the building.
At the end of the day, remember that the interview is mutually beneficial for all sides. So take a breath and go in ready to have a great conversation.
Read the full post for more detailed insight.
