After a fun (class trip to Breckenridge) and relaxing (making up for 10 weeks of lost sleep) three week vacation, we are back in the full swing of things at Anderson. Like in Fall quarter, the first week wasn't really a rampup/introduction to the classes - we already have group projects due next week! Also, recruiting is on top of mind for people in marketing, banking and consulting. As part of the recruiting process, we are often asked "why brand management" and "why X company." I thought I'd use this post to reflect on what I wish I knew before I came to school so that it can be of some help to all you potential admits out there as you think about the application process and beyond.
As a career switcher from consulting to marketing, I think if there is one thing I could go back and do better is really take the time to think about my value proposition. A big part of recruiting is being able to communicate what your transferable skills are and why you want to make the switch. It's super important to figure out what it was in your old job that you loved and what was missing, and how this new career is going to fill the gap. Most importantly, you have to figure out the logical connection between old and new, and what you will do to get you to the place where you can do your new job with confidence and drive results. I think same goes for applying to business school. That's why they ask you all those essay questions of why an MBA and why Anderson!
Good luck to everyone applying!
- Katie