The Internet has opened up a world of options so it is now possible to research MBA programmes without leaving your home! However, given the time you will be investing and the money the MBA experience demands, there is no substitute for meeting the admissions personnel of Business Schools at MBA fairs face-to-face.
MBA career fair take place in most major metros every year and admissions teams from many of the world’s top schools collect under one roof. This gives you the ideal opportunity to gather information on a whole host of topics from programme length and content to local conditions, job opportunities and so on.
How to make the most of an MBA fair?
In order to make the best of an MBA fair, you need to do a tiny amount of prep work.
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Draw up a list of the programmes that are suited to your goals and abilities so that when you visit the fair you will know which B-school to head to.
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Visit the relevant school’s websites to gather more information.
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There is no point in wasting time on courses that don’t interest you.
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Use your time at the fair to chat to B-school representatives about accommodation costs, grants, bursaries etc. Check if they have any deals on loans with local financial institutions and so on. This way you will know more or less how much your financial outlay is going to be.
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Draw up a list of questions, and doubts you may have in advance so that you don’t miss anything out on that day. Ask about the faculty, student mix, specializations, and future career options.
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Keep your questions direct and to the point as admission personnel may not have too much time to devote to you alone.
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B–school fairs also see alumni alongside their admissions personnel. If you do bump into former students make sure you glean as much knowledge from them as you can.
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MBA fairs are your first point of contact with a B-school, so use the opportunity to find out what programmes are offered; when and how to apply.
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The QS World MBA Tour for instance isn’t just a venue for meeting individual schools, you can also learn a lot through information sessions on topics such as GMAT and the applications process.
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Finally, make the most of your MBA fair experience. Shop around and find the school that suits you and the programme you’ve chosen for yourself the best!
Lessons Learnt
In order to make the best of an MBA fair, you need to do a tiny amount of prep work. Use your time at the fair to chat to B-school representatives about accommodation costs, grants, bursaries etc.
MBA fairs are your first point of contact with a B-school, so use the opportunity to find out what programmes are offered; when and how to apply.