10 New Year’s Resolutions For MBA Candidates


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Is this the year you decide to change industries, broaden your horizons and climb the professional ladder?

Whatever the reason for your MBA, as the application deadlines are fast approaching, the New Year is a great time to move forward with your application.

As you prepare to dive into the 2022 MBA application process, here are 10 New Year’s Resolution ideas for you.


1. Redefine your goals

Still don’t know what you want out of business school? Before embarking on your MBA application journey, you need to determine exactly what you want to get out of an MBA.

What type of structure – online, part-time, full-time – would suit you best? In which sector do you want to get started or evolve? What are your job and salary expectations?

This will help you narrow down your options and make your story clear to the admissions team when you submit your application.

To learn more about your post-MBA career options at top business schools, check out our MBA job postings and salary reviews!


2. Do more research

Don’t be lazy with your research. Once you determine what you want, you will be able to find the program that matches your goals.

Take a look at all aspects of an MBA – class size, electives, internships, school industrial relations, networking opportunities, and more.

Don’t just apply for a bunch of programs and hope for the best. Admissions teams can usually spot well-suited applications and those that are generic.


3. Be organized

Now is the time to improve your organizational skills. The MBA application process is long and complicated, so you need to be strategic.

Check deadlines, plan ahead, allow plenty of time to complete each task, and be sure to proofread everything. It’s also a good idea to allow a few extra days for a trusted friend or colleague to take a look at your resume, essays, and personal statement.


Read: How can MBA applicants get ahead this holiday season?

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4. Start your preparation for GMAT

If you haven’t started preparing for the test, now is the time. Whether you take the GMAT or the GRE, you will need to practice.

Sign up for GMAT preparation courses if you feel the need to, familiarize yourself with the content and structure of the tests, and don’t despair if you struggle at first.

Preparing for tests is a time consuming task, so try to create a schedule that breaks it down into smaller tasks. Don’t be tempted to burden yourself!


5. Take the time to think

While it can be tempting to get rid of the app as quickly as possible, there are some parts that you can’t rush.

Your MBA application essay should be thoughtful, and the best essays are the product of true self-reflection. So take your time with it.


6. Take more initiative at work

Work experience is a key part of the MBA application. Even if you don’t work in a leadership or management role, there are still opportunities for you to be proactive by taking on additional projects and presenting new ideas.

Admissions teams want to see how you’ve demonstrated leadership, so find ways to stand out in your organization.


7. Explore more extracurricular activities

Business schools want to know how you are going to contribute to the community beyond academic excellence and work experience.

Use the New Year to create a full application by volunteering, strengthening your language skills, or exploring your creative side. When writing your application, be sure to explain how these experiences will enrich your cohort.


8. Build your personal brand

Personal branding is how you can differentiate yourself from other highly qualified candidates.

This month, create a resume that showcases your accomplishments, skills, and interests as part of a bigger whole.

If there is a cause that is particularly close to your heart, make sure it is also included in your application.


Read: How to Pass Your MBA Essay and Promote Your Personal Brand0eeaa674fa31965ad5c96acce93b6f87ab1e905d.jpg © undrey / iStock


9. Develop your network

Hiding behind emails? Make sure you take the next step this year to expand your network before you apply to a business school.

Engage in dialogue with alumni, current students, and faculty as much as possible throughout your application. They will be happy to share tips and talk about their own experience.

Remember to also strengthen your existing network and contact potential MBA recommenders well in advance.


10. Create a plan B

It is possible that your original plan will fail, so make sure you have a backup. It will make things less stressful for you as you readjust.

If you are planning to go to business school this year, consider applying to a “security” school where you have a very high chance of being admitted.

If you would prefer to apply again next year after a potential rejection, have a few steps in mind to grow in the meantime and make sure you are a more competitive candidate next year.

Having a Plan B is important, but hopefully you don’t need it. If you keep your New Years Resolutions, 2022 should be a successful year!


Are you considering an MBA this year?

Download our MBA 2022 application guide

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