MBA Insider's Blog

Reapplying to UCLA Anderson

At UCLA Anderson, we love our reapplicants and we often see them succeeding the following admissions cycle.

Here's some encouraging news: if you decide to reapply, you're already well-versed in the application process, giving you a distinct advantage. While the composition of the applicant pool evolves annually, you have the luxury of extra time and newfound insights to craft a more compelling application. As a reapplicant, you embark on a fresh start because we don't refer back to your previous application when reassessing your profile.

We've simplified the reapplication process to assist individuals who submitted their full-time MBA application in the past two years. Please note that if your last application was more than two years ago, you will be classified as a 'new' applicant and should adhere to the guidelines for new applicants. The streamlined process entails submitting only one new recommendation, and there is no obligation to compose a new essay. Instead, we provide you with the chance in your reapplication to spotlight the developments since your last application across various categories. 

Test Scores, Academics, Professional/Employment, Extracurriculars, and Other. These sections are a great place to show the Admissions Committee that you have taken additional time to strengthen your candidacy and direct their attention to your achievements and improvements.

Here are some specific examples of what you could choose to highlight:

• Test Scores: Many of our reapplying candidates take advantage of the extra time to consider retaking the GMAT/GRE in an effort to enhance their application. While a higher score is advantageous, it's advisable to consult our class profile for GMAT averages and the 80% range to help you determine whether retaking the test is warranted. It's important to note that we admit individuals both below and above these averages annually. Ultimately, if you believe you can achieve a better score and it would significantly bolster your candidacy, it might be worth your time, effort, and investment to retake the exam. Some reapplicants have also chosen to switch to a different exam (for instance, switching from GMAT to GRE or EA) or not include a test score if they found it to be a better fit for their strengths. 
• Academics: If you believe your academic performance was below par and/or you didn't adequately showcase your aptitude for quantitative tasks, it could be beneficial to contemplate enrolling in supplementary courses through community college, extension programs, or third-party educational providers. While these courses won't alter your undergraduate GPA, they can serve as evidence of your capacity to handle the rigorous curriculum that our program entails.
• Professional & Extracurricular Experiences: Since your last application, you've likely had ample opportunity to expand your professional background, including acquiring new skills, achieving milestones, working on projects, and even securing promotions. Additionally, you may have enriched your extracurricular involvement by taking on new leadership roles or engaging in volunteer activities. Be sure to showcase these developments in your reapplication.
• Self-Reflection & Research: At times, an applicant may possess strong exam scores, GPA, and career achievements, yet still face an unfavorable outcome due to the softer aspects of their application. In such cases, it's crucial to take a moment to reflect on the messaging in your previous application. Consider asking yourself the following questions: Have my post-MBA goals evolved or become more defined? Did I adequately convey why this moment in my career is the right time for an MBA? Do I now possess a deeper understanding of how UCLA Anderson's program aligns with my aspirations and how I can contribute to it? Remember that your reapplication offers a clean slate, and it's perfectly acceptable to share any updated goals if they have indeed changed.

• Check back for more Application Insider blog posts that will cover information and tips on the many aspects of applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program!

Global Paths Cross in LA

As we create the next MBA class with our admits this time of year, another great international mix is forming. Our mission in Admissions is to create a kind of miniature United Nations here, where our MBA students learn about global culture from each other while gaining management understanding together too. Los Angeles is a gateway to the world which opens both ways, so this is the perfect place to mix the best of America with the best from 40+ countries around the world.

International students (and their families) find that they fit well in our multi-lingual city with every cuisine available. A taste of home may be comforting, but our students also share a sense of adventure, which is why they come to this forward-thinking region in the first place. Pioneers have always found their way to California, and we rely on newcomers to keep bringing fresh ideas and global perspectives which make this place dynamic for everyone.

Many Anderson graduates stay on the West Coast after their MBA since we offer such interesting careers and a balanced lifestyle. Those from abroad often arrange to stay for at least a few years under special work permit programs that help them establish their post-MBA careers while adding to the US economy.

UCLA Anderson's status as a STEM program helps students to get visas, just as all students benefit from the credibility that a UCLA degree brings anywhere in the world. Southern California may be the base of our alumni network, but thanks to our international commitment we keep growing connections to successful people worldwide.

Speaking for myself, I'm glad to have seen the world several times over as I traveled to recruit applicants for our MBA program. Asia, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East -- I've been everywhere to meet prospective students and learn about many cultures first-hand. Nowadays I stay at headquarters upholding that global mindset, while my team of admissions officers takes their turn to travel and share UCLA Anderson's appeal.

We all understand the value that international students bring to our school and our country. Add in the vital Americans and we feel lucky to be part of a worldwide network of fascinating, friendly people that we in MBA Admissions keep adding to every year.

Inside the Black Box of MBA Admissions Evaluations

Our MBA Admissions Committee (AdCom) is busy reading applications here in our peak season, and now we’d like to give you a little peek inside the black box that normally hides our evaluation process from view.

Every MBA application gets a thorough and balanced review, as we consider the individual’s attributes and what they could add to the dynamic mix in our class. Context is everything as we see what the applicant achieved relative to their peers in the years available. Excitement feels contagious, so people who do good research share their enthusiasm for the opportunities that UCLA Anderson can provide to boost careers and change lives.

Part of our holistic process involves ratings on an “ACE” scale, where we consider Academics, Contribution and Employability as primary factors:

Academics: To check readiness for the intellectual rigor of our MBA program, we look at undergraduate grades and courses, plus any scores that are provided. Quantitative coursework, business-related classes and certifications can boost academic profiles.

Contribution: Community involvement and leadership development are vital at UCLA Anderson, so we look for such strengths in applicants’ university years and afterwards too. Adding diversity to the class in terms of background, career, geography, interests, etc. is always a plus.

Employability: Strong applications show transferable skills and an action plan that will leverage MBA resources to maximum effect. Coachability is also key, as are skills in communication and perseverance that are the raw materials for success in school and in life.

Candidates who submit a compelling application are invited to interview with us. This conversation is a friendly chance for applicants to make their case verbally for their goals and why an MBA at UCLA Anderson will make a huge difference in their lives. The real challenge is to figure out the case to make in the application, and then the interview will be fun!

In sum, we look for candidates who ACE the application process by showing they are prepared to hit the ground running here and make the most of the MBA experience. The best applicants come and prove how much potential they have to boost themselves up, add to our community and ultimately benefit the world.

Waitlist Guidelines: For Application Year 2022-23 (MBA Class of 2025)

Being placed onto UCLA Anderson’s waitlist is a great accomplishment. Waitlisted candidates are recognized as potentially being a strong fit, but we cannot offer everyone a seat at this time due to class size limitations. Nonetheless, we encourage you to learn more about the waitlist and ways to potentially enhance your candidacy.

• You will remain on the waitlist until a final decision is made on your application or until you request that your application be withdrawn.
• We may reach out occasionally via email to check in on your interest to stay on the waitlist -- please be sure to respond accordingly in a timely manner
• Waitlisted candidates (except those who withdraw) will be reconsidered for admission in subsequent rounds.
• Round 1 applicants will receive an update on their application status on or before the Round 2 decision release (March 22, 2023). Some candidates may be offered the option of remaining on the waitlist for consideration in Round 3.
• Remaining waitlisted candidates from Round 1 and Round 2 will receive an update on their application status by the Round 3 decision release (May 17, 2023). 
• We cannot give individual feedback to waitlisted applicants.
• The likelihood of being admitted off the waitlist is difficult to predict since the number of students admitted from the waitlist varies from year to year depending on the size/strength of the admit pool, the number of admits who enroll, and a variety of other factors.
• OPTIONAL: Waitlisted candidates may send any updates via the MBA Waitlist Interest Form (link to this is on your Waitlist decision letter)
  • Please use your personal judgment and discretion in submitting additional information that is relevant to your application. Examples include (but are not limited to): employment promotions, updated test scores, and recent extracurricular accomplishments.
  • Prior to submitting additional information, please consider:
    • Each interaction we have with you can be a data point on your file, so be sure your updates add value.
    • The quality of information and communication is more important than the quantity.

If you are on the waitlist and have any additional questions, please e-mail [email protected].  

We appreciate your continued interest and look forward to being in touch in the coming months!

-- The MBA Admissions Team

 

UCLA Anderson Application Insider: International Applicants FAQs

his post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

---

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

TOP QUESTIONS FROM INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS

Now that the Round 2 deadline has past, we hope this post will be helpful to share some of the common questions that we receive from international applicants. Below are the top-10 FAQs that apply to international candidates:

Q1. Is the application for international applicants the same as the application for domestic applicants?
A1. Yes, we use the same application for both international and domestic applicants.

Q2. If I have dual citizenship (i.e., Italy and U.S.), am I considered an international applicant or a U.S. applicant?
A2. We use the primary citizenship listed on your application --  if you list your U.S. citizenship as your primary citizenship, you are considered a U.S. applicant. However, if you list your U.S. citizenship as your secondary citizenship, you are considered an international applicant. 

Q3. What academic records do I need to submit with my application? What if they are not in English?
A3. In order to submit a completed application, you will need to upload a complete transcript and degree certificate or diploma in the native language of the country in which your degree was earned, as well as a certified translation in English. Please make sure that your degree certificate or diploma shows the exact degree received and date awarded. For review purposes, these can be scanned documents, but if invited to interview, you will be required to send us official hard-copy documents.

Q4. My undergraduate university does not use the 4.0 scale for my grades. Do I need to convert my grades?
A4. No, please do not convert your grades to a 4.0 scale. We will evaluate your transcripts using the grading scale used by your institution. It is helpful if the grading scale is visible on your transcripts or degree certificate/diploma.

Q5. If I earned a three-year undergraduate degree, am I still eligible to apply?
A5. Yes, you are still welcome to apply. We do admit students with 3-year degrees, but the rest of your application needs to be exceptionally strong to compete against other applicants with 4-year degrees. If you would like your academic records to equate to a 4-year degree, you would need to either complete a master's degree or other post-graduate degree/diploma.

Q6. Is the TOEFL or IELTS required for all international applicants?
A6. TOEFL or IELTS scores are required of all international applicants EXCEPT those from a select list of countries. For more information please refer to UCLA Graduate Division Office English Requirements. We do not have a preference in which exam you take. It is up to you to decide which test you prefer. 

Note: If you have a bachelors or masters degree from a university in the United States, you do not need to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. The same applies if your bachelors or masters degree is from a university located in another country in which English is both the primary spoken language of daily life and the medium of instruction (e.g., Australia, Barbados, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, United Kingdom).

Q7. How does the interview process work?
A7. Interviews are conducted on an invitation basis only after submitted applications are reviewed. Interviews last approximately 30 minutes and are intended to be an interactive conversation. We are interested in getting to know you as an individual and understanding how you'll fit into the next class. A large portion of our interviews are conducted by student ambassadors. We offer two interview options: on-campus or online via Zoom. It is not possible to request a formal application interview if you have not received an invitation. Since our interviews are conducted on an invitation basis, we need to respect our process in order to be fair to all applicants.

Note: If invited to interview, you will be able to choose which option is best for you. If you would like to visit campus to interview in person, you are welcome to, but we do not expect all applicants to do so. There is no difference or preference between interviews.

Q8. If I need more time to submit my application, can I apply in Round 3 as an international student?
A8. Yes. While Round 3 is generally more competitive because fewer seats are usually available in the class, it is still a very viable round.

Q9. If I am admitted in Round 3, will I still have time to process my student visa?
A9. We regularly admit international students in Round 3 and they are able to process their student visa in time to start the program. However, since you will be working with the individual U.S. Embassy or Consulate that is most convenient for you, it ultimately depends on their processing time.

Q10. If I am admitted to the UCLA Anderson MBA Program, by when do I need to be in the Los Angeles area?
A10. International applicants admitted to the MBA Program should aim to be in the Los Angeles area by mid-July.

---

Stay in Touch: Introduce Yourself
Follow the Admissions Team @uclaMBA:  Twitter
Questions? Contact us at: [email protected]

UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Choosing an MBA Program

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

---

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

Choosing an MBA Program

With our Round 1 decision release date coming up in about two weeks, we wanted to share some advice that you may want to think through as you consider your options. Below are some recommended action items to take to help you make a decision on which MBA program is the right one for you. If you are applying in Rounds 2 or 3, hopefully this post will give you a quick look into what to expect once the applications and interviews are all done!

(1) Connect (or re-connect) with current students, alumni, and future classmates: 
Once you have been admitted into a program, it's natural that the type of questions you have will change. Share the good news with people you interacted with along the way, and take this opportunity to set up follow-up conversations to discuss your questions. At UCLA Anderson, we pair you exclusively with a student buddy and an alumni buddy once you're admitted so there will be two more additional resources for you, too! We will also add you to a Slack Workspace to start making those connections early. This is a great way to meet future classmates and decide if this is the network you want moving forward.

PRO-Tip: Using Slack and getting those conversations early is also a great way to meet potential roommates should you be making the move to Los Angeles!

(2) Save the date for admit events:
We highly recommend participating in our many events and activities we host for admitted applicants! These events are the best way to assess a school's offerings, culture and overall environment, in addition to providing the opportunity to get to know your potential future classmates. Anderson's Round One Week (AROW) and Anderson Days (A-Days for Rounds 1 and 2) feature sessions with our top-ranked Parker Career Management Center, faculty spotlights, 1-on-1 loan advising sessions, and more. 

PRO-Tip: If you cannot make it to us, we come to you. Look out for days where we'll be in your city hosting Admit Lunches & Dinners.

(3) Consult your personal "Board of Advisors":
At the end of the day, you want to attend the best program possible for you and your goals. Assemble a list of the people in your life who are your personal and professional mentors that can advise you. Don't forget your "gut feelings", too -- those intangible qualities about a school that leave you feeling more empowered, inspired, and included can make the difference between an "OK" MBA experience and a life-changing one.

PRO-Tip: LinkedIn is a great place to continue looking for people in the UCLA Anderson network. It's likely you know someone or connected to someone who does.

We also encourage you to think beyond the immediate post-MBA job. Our alumni are proud to call UCLA Anderson their home because of what our school stands for -- sharing success, thinking fearlessly and driving change - and how we live those values every day. Classmates and professors pushed each other to a new level of potential, and we are so excited that UCLA Anderson could be a part of your journey!

Check back for more "Application Insider" blog posts that will cover information and tips on the many aspects of applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program!

---
Stay in Touch: Stay Connected
Follow the Admissions Team @uclaMBA:  Twitter
Questions? Contact us at: [email protected]

UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Frequently Asked Questions

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

---

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

Top 10 Applicant Questions

People are generally scared to ask questions -- but chances are if you're thinking about it, so is someone else! Throughout this past recruiting season, we compiled a list of our top Frequently Asked Questions to help you on your MBA information-gathering and your application journey!

Question 1: How can a prospective student learn more about the UCLA Anderson MBA program?
UCLA Anderson offers many group information sessions, student chats, webinars, and more throughout the week so prospective students can get to know us first-hand. These events range from on-campus to off-campus in various cities, and a lot are virtual! Needless to say, there is no shortage on ways to learn more about us. Visit our Admissions Events webpage to register for events that work for your schedule. If you are signed up to receive our information emails (if not, sign up here!), we will send out information about upcoming programming and special admissions events. Please note that some of these events have capacity limits so sign up to secure your spot.  

Note: We highly encourage you to reach out to our students! Our Student Ambassadors are excited to speak with you and we've made it very easy for you to reach out through our Connect with Our Students portal. All student clubs have a designated officer to speak with prospective students (usually the VP of Admissions/Student Outreach). With our 50+ clubs, you're sure to be able to find someone with specific career goals, interests, and backgrounds. Go ahead, shoot them that email and make that connection!

Question 2: Is UCLA Anderson back to in-person instruction?
Yes, this incoming class of 2024 began their MBA in-person on August 1, 2022. UCLA Anderson is hopeful that it will remain this way throughout the academic year, but will continue to follow LA Country Public Health guidelines should there be a rise in cases to best ensure the safety of our community. 

Question 3: Is there a minimum GMAT/GRE score or GPA required for admission? 
There are no minimum test scores or GPAs required to be admitted. Many factors are considered in our holistic decision process. Admissions decisions are not made solely on the basis of grades and test scores. However, you may want to note our average and range of scores in our most recent class profile and ensure that your GPA and/or test score represents your ability. If you do not believe your score reflects your ability, we recommend that you consider retaking the test if you are able.

Note: We do not offer waivers for the GMAT/GRE exam requirement. All applicants must submit either GMAT or GRE scores (only current UCLA School of Law JD or UCLA School of Medicine MD students have the option to submit the LSAT/MCAT scores respectively in lieu of the GMAT or GRE). We recommend you take the test you feel most comfortable with, as there is currently no preference for either exam in the admissions review process.

Question 4: Do you require work experience to apply?
No, we do not have a work experience requirement to apply. However, note that in our most recent class profile that the average work experience for the incoming class is 6 years with 90% of our students have 3+ years. Given that this is a professional degree where classroom discussions and projects are enriched through drawing from prior work experience, we find that work experience is critical to the admissions review process. Additionally, you will likely find that a lot of employers have work experience requirements during the recruiting process. However, there are still those exceptions and ultimately you will need to help the admissions committee understand why the MBA is necessary for you at this point in your career. 

Question 5: Do I need to submit my official transcripts and/or official test (GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS) scores when I apply to UCLA Anderson?
No, you do not need to submit your official transcript documents or official test scores when applying. For your initial application, uploaded scanned unofficial copies of your transcripts and documents, and self-reported test scores are perfectly sufficient for the Admissions Committee to begin evaluations. If invited for an interview, you will be asked to provide office copies of your transcripts and official test scores (more specific details will be provided at that time). It is crucial that you send in these official documents to be considered for admission.

Question 6: Do I need to take the TOEFL or IELTS English Language exams?
We require all international applicants to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores (with exception of some countries -- please contact the MBA Admissions office to check), regardless of the language of instruction during your undergraduate studies. This is a requirement from UCLA Graduate Division, which is the authority that oversees all graduate admissions. These exams are important to show the Admissions Committee that you have sufficient English communication skills to succeed in the classroom and in our program.

Question 7:  Can I submit updates to my application after I have submitted it?
Unfortunately, we do not accept official updates to the application once it has been submitted. If you do wish to add information after your application has been submitted, it can be added to your file but there is no guarantee it will be used in the admissions review process. Updates can be sent to [email protected]. If you would like, you can request that your application will be moved to a later round for consideration if you want to ensure any updated information is included during evaluations (assuming this request gets submitted in time). 

Question 8: Do you accept transfer students or credits from other MBA programs?
No, we do not accept transfer students or credits from other MBA programs. We believe that part of the Anderson experience is developing relationships with classmates during the two years of attendance in the MBA program. You may still apply, but you would be required to begin as a first-year student. It may be possible to test out of some core courses to be replaced by MBA elective courses of your choice.

Question 9: If I earned a three-year undergraduate degree, am I still eligible to apply?
Yes, you are still eligible to apply. We do admit students with 3-year degrees but the rest of your application needs to be strong to compete against other applicants. If you would like your academic records to equate to a 4-year degree, you would need to either complete a Master’s degree or other Post Graduate Degree/Diploma.

Question 10: Can I begin the MBA program in the winter or spring?
We do not offer spring or winter admission.  All students in the Full-Time MBA program start at the same time (end of summer).

 

>> Get more answers to your questions by visiting our Admissions FAQ webpage.  Still have questions? Ask them here!

 

We hope this information was helpful!

 

Check back for more "Application Insider" blog posts that will cover information and tips on the many aspects of applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program!

 

---

Stay in Touch: Introduce Yourself
Questions? Ask A Question

 

UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Extracurricular Activities and Leadership Development

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

---

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

Extracurricular Activities and Leadership Development

UCLA Anderson is a student-run campus. A lot of the programming from the prospective student phase all the way to graduation is led by our student body of roughly 700 students. We look for those who want to be leaders on campus to "drive change" and leave an impact for not just their peers, but future students. So when you apply to UCLA Anderson, your extracurricular activities and leadership roles in your undergraduate studies, workplace and/or community can help to show us how you have exhibited qualities that leave an impact. There are multiple places to share your involvement in our application, including the "Activities" section, resume, essay, and interview.

In the "Activities section, you'll only be able to list 5 activities. We limited this because the Admissions Committee is looking for the QUALITY of your involvement and leadership roles, NOT quantity. We look to your prior involvement since we believe your past is a good indicator for how involved you will be during your time at UCLA Anderson. Did you know that our 50+ student clubs and leaders help to host over 400 events every year? Recruiters and employers also see your past leadership experiences and involvement at UCLA Anderson as signs of your future leadership interest and potential in their organizations. You can also take on these leadership role during your 1st-Year!

You may have been involved in activities you've since forgotten or have had varying levels of involvement in depending on other events in your life. Here are some examples to hopefully remind you of your involvement and even potentially inspire you to get involved again...it's never too late to start! -- 

University/College Activities

• Leadership roles in a campus club and non-profit organization
• Writer or Editor of a campus publication
• College athletics: Team captain? Most Valuable Player? Operations manager?
• Orientation leader or campus tour guide
• Volunteering
• Fraternity/Sorority involvement and leadership
• Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC)
• Case competitions 
• Tutoring, mentoring and other community service

Post-University Activities

• Involvement/role in non-profits or professional organizations
• Leadership role in an alumni association or undergrad interviewing
• Workplace engagement teams and employee resource groups
• Volunteer team leader
• Public speaking or teaching roles
• Active role in political organizations or local campaigns
• Founder of a non-profit or community event

You may be asking why are your university and post-university activities are of relevance and of interest to the Admissions Committee?  If you think about it, these past experiences mirror the MBA program to some degree in that you will be be balancing many different priorities -- including career, social, and academics. In fact, the average UCLA Anderson student is involved with 8 different clubs while holding leadership roles in 3!

Your past involvement gives us some indicator of your ability to contribute to your community while succeeding in these other areas at the same time. That said, if you didn't have time in the past or could not balance these activities successfully, let us know how you have grown professionally and personally to be able to manage effectively as an MBA student. In the end, we value all contributions, big and small, that our students make to create the amazing environment and culture that we have on campus!

Check back for more "Application Insider" blog posts that will cover information and tips on the many aspects of applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program!

---
Stay in Touch: Stay Connected
Follow the Admissions Team @uclaMBA:  Twitter
Questions? Contact us at: [email protected]

Return on Investment = ROI on the MBA

 

Potential students looking at the MBA degree are totally justified in asking, "What's in it for me?" Part of the reward comes quickly in salary jumps (and usually signing bonuses) after graduation. On average our students see an 85% increase in salary between their pre-MBA and post-MBA compensation. That's just the start of their lifelong trajectory of higher income.

The greatest value of the UCLA Anderson MBA comes from access to our network. Year after year we bring in classes full of amazing people representing the globe and diverse backgrounds and interests, so everyone can learn from each other in the friendly warm melting pot here. Our latest brochure shows the general range of students we invite to join us annually.

Enhanced job opportunities are just the start of personal growth here for our MBA students. Leadership skills and social activism flourish in our supportive community. Combined with intense academic learning and career coaching, the experience makes our students "masters of their own destiny" as they say. This spirit is what turns many Anderson alumni into successful entrepreneurs later in their careers as they create options for income and impact.  

Anderson access extends beyond the UCLA campus even for students, as our program empowers them to also get practical experience with internships here in one of the world's great cities. Then with boosted resumes they get post-MBA jobs all over the US and abroad as they spread our helpful contacts around the planet.

The four letters UCLA are a global brand, but our Anderson MBA alumni in particular have a tight network that believes in sharing success by helping each other and current students too.

Check out our latest employment report to see the fascinating variety of places where our alumni go, and visit our career pages to see the paths through UCLA Anderson that get them there.

It all starts with an application to come join our community, so please explore more, ask questions, and learn why you are worth the investment in a UCLA Anderson MBA!

UCLA Anderson Application Insider: Career Pathing

This blog post is part of our "Application Insider" blog post series that provides insider information, tips, and advice about applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program.

---

APPLICATION INSIDER TOPIC:

CAREER PATHING

Career advancement is the the driver for all applicants pursing an MBA. Whether you're looking to make an industry and/or functional pivot, or just looking to advance in your current company, you need to take the time to create a road map for yourself as you think about pursuing the MBA, what you hope to gain, as well as when is the right time for you to begin a program. To answer these three questions, we like to use a framework called "career pathing" to chart a course for your career development.

Step 1: Consider your past and present work experience -- what have you accomplished, what skills have you gained, what do you like most about your experiences, and what do you like least. Reflecting on your career to date will provide you with insight into what inspires you, your areas of strength as well as opportunities for growth. This information can inform your decision to pursue an MBA and potentially set the foundation for your post-MBA career goals.

Step 2: Think about the type of career that you hope to have post-MBA. Do you want to start your post-MBA career as a management consultant gain exposure to multiple industries before exiting into an in-house strategy role? Or do you want to become a senior product manager in a large technology firm with a long term goal to become a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)? Maybe you even just want to pursue your own entrepreneurial goals. The MBA is truly a flexible degree that can be applicable to almost any profession. However, it’s important to be specific and narrow down the function and industry that you would be interested in pursuing so that you can maximize your time and the resources offered by an MBA program. 

Step 3: Once you’ve taken a thorough look at your pre-MBA work experience and thought through your post-MBA goals, you can then focus on how to use your time in an MBA program. The many opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom at UCLA Anderson MBA will ultimately to allow you to explore interests both professionally and personally. This includes (1) networking building to get to know your classmates and our alumni network (2) leadership experience through club Board positions, (3) interest development through involvement in the interest clubs and case competitions, (4) socializing via our many interest clubs, all of which to support your career development.

An MBA will help you bridge the gap between where you currently are in your career and where you want to be in the future. You want to understand your motivations for pursuing an MBA, your current skillsets, and areas of development, so that you can pinpoint what resources you will need for your continued development and ultimately decide which MBA programs you are targeting. Creating an outline with this information will not only help you understand the impact that an MBA can have on your life and career, but it will also make it easier for you to write compelling MBA essays and support your MBA plan throughout the application process.

Check back for more "Application Insider" blog posts that will cover information and tips on the many aspects of applying to the UCLA Anderson MBA program!

---

Stay in Touch: Introduce Yourself
Follow the Admissions Team @uclaMBA:  Twitter
Questions? Contact us at: [email protected]