Application Tips From the Ultimate “EMBA Insiders”

You’ve done your research and are now ready to start preparing your application for admission to the Michigan Ross Executive MBA Program. Congratulations! We know from years of experience that you will look back on this decision favorably, recognizing it as a pivotal moment that helped shape who you have become both personally and professionally.

Before you put “pencil to paper” and begin drafting essay answers, updating your resume, ordering transcripts, etc., I thought it might be beneficial for you to hear from those who have come before you. Specifically, I reached out to last year’s admitted students asking them for the “tips and tricks” they used to successfully navigate our process and begin their EMBA journey. Here is some of what they had to say:

• “Approach the admissions interview differently from a job interview. Instead of focusing on a particular set of skills or credentials, you will want to tell your career “story” (what you have done professionally since graduation and why). That story should also have a focus on the future and include plans on where you want to take your career. Being able to tie the Ross EMBA Program to those plans will help you stand out as an excellent candidate!”
• “Tie your essay question answers to the professional story you have detailed on your resume. Being able to add color to specific moments and key experiences helps highlight the cohesiveness of your overall journey and will give the admissions committee a clearer picture of who you are and why you belong in the program.”
• “I would highly encourage candidates to reach out to Ross alums as they are going through the process. Alums provide a unique perspective of the program and culture that is difficult to get from other sources. For me, speaking with an alumnus helped confirm my choice of Ross for the EMBA and also allowed me to speak more effectively about that fit in my application essays, interview, etc.”
• “During the interview, I came prepared to discuss not only my work experience and the “Why Ross” questions, but also the strategies I intended to employ to ensure that I would have the adequate time and attention to devote to the program. My interviewer seemed to really appreciate the thought I had put into my approach and demonstrated commitment to the program.” 

I hope you found these tips helpful. If you have questions during the application process, the EMBA admissions team is always here to help you, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time.