The Berkeley MBA - Online Admissions Chat
November 18, 2011
Chat with Berkeley-Haas
Corinne Kang, Senior Associate Director of Admissions
Cindy Jennings Millette, Associate Director of Admissions
Morgan Eckles, Assistant Director of Admissions
Lee Forgue, Admissions Specialist
Jesse Tejeda, MBA Class of 2012
Alison Brock, MBA Class of
2013
Vina Ryan, Moderator
Vina_Moderator: Hi everyone and welcome to our chat. My name is Vina and I will be moderating the event today. Joining us will be Corinne Kang – Senior Associate Director of Admissions, Cindy Jennings Millette – Associate Director of Admissions, Morgan Eckles – Assistant Director of Admissions, and Lee Forgue – Admissions Specialist. We also have Alison Brock and Jesse Tejeda – two current MBA students. Please send us your questions!
Cindy_Berkeley: Thanks for joining us today! Happy to answer your questions.
Lee_Berkeley: Hi! My name is Lee Forgue and I'm an Admissions Specialist on the Haas Team. I'll be answering your questions about the application process.
Morgan_Berkeley: Hi everyone. Happy to answer your questions today.
Corinne_Berkeley: Hello and welcome! What can we help answer for you?
Jesse_MBA12: Greetings from Berkeley-Haas! My name is Jesse and I am a 2nd year MBA student in the full time program. Happy to answer any questions.
TS(Q): For a current student: what are some of the highlights during the orientation process that you felt helped you develop strong relationships with your peers?
Alison_MBA13(A): Hi Everyone - My name is Alison and I'm a first year student here at Haas. Orientation Week was a great way to bond with my class, my cohort and my study group. The community service project we did as a group was definitely a highlight. We also had a number of speakers; including Biz Stone--co-creator of Twitter--come in to speak with us.
TS(Q): How early do companies start recruiting on campus for internship opportunities after first year students first arrive on campus?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi TS - The internship recruitment cycle typically starts in the spring semester for first-year students. However, our Career Management Group starts preparing our students for their job search almost as soon as they arrive on campus with workshops, seminars, and a Career Management Conference.
Dee(Q): Morning! I have had a few alums offer to write a letter of recommendation in addition to the formal ones I'm submitting with my application. Would 3 be too many? Would you look at them as part of my file?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): Good morning. Yes, we often hear from alumni who want to send recommendation letters in support of applicants. Alumni can forward these letters to admissions and we will add to the file.
rkulka09(Q): Hey Vina, I was wondering what is the closest interview site you guys have to Portland, Oregon?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Rkulka09 - If you are invited to interview, you will be matched with an alumni interviewer in the Portland area and the two of you will set up a mutually agreed upon time and location. We do not have formal interview sites outside of the Berkeley-Haas campus.
Jesse_MBA12: recruiting for investment banking and consulting starts early...fall semester of 1st year.
aarmo(Q): I have a question for Lee - What do you think is a good mix of personal and professional examples while writing the first 5 essays?
Lee_Berkeley(A): Hi aarmo -- the important thing is that you use your best examples, whether personal or professional. The "mix" will vary from person to person, but remember that the point of these questions is to give us the best-rounded picture of who you are.
KublerC12012(Q): Hi Morgan, my name is Carlos, I met you at a Berkeley session in Caracas, that day I forgot to ask how important is it to strictly adhere to word counts on the essays. Can some of them be just a bit longer?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Carlos - Good to hear from you. We strongly recommend that applicants stick to the word count suggested. The application is not going to cut you off if you are a few words over, but we do expect you to use good judgment and be succinct in your responses.
Gary(Q): Did anyone see my audio question?
Vina_Moderator(A): Hi Gary, there is no audio in this software. Questions will need to be typed out.
fjimenez(Q): I would like to know how successful the first round of applications has been and how that might impact subsequent rounds?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): A bit too early to tell for sure. We have only started to review round 1. I wouldn't worry about the applicant pool - just concentrate on putting forth your strongest application possible.
Dee(Q): Most schools, including Haas, recommend applying in R1 or R2. Since Haas has 4 rounds, how does R3 compare in terms of competitiveness?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Dee - It is difficult to say now how competitive R3 will be or how many spaces will be left in the class. What I can say is that you should apply as early as possible when you can submit your strongest application. We do not recommend rushing an application just to make a deadline. A strong application will always rise to the top, regardless of the round in which it is submitted. That said, there are certainly some benefits to applying in R1 or R2, such as more spots in the program and more scholarship money available.
PeterB(Q): What are some opportunities at Haas for people starting their own business?
Jesse_MBA12(A): Haas is definitely an entrepreneurial school, and a top reason people come to Haas. Personally, I've taken an entrepreneurship class, a venture capital/private equity class, and a workshop for startups. Additionally, I competed in last year's business plan competition. There are also mentors from the industry that are here to help on a regular basis
LZ(Q): Hi everyone, I have a question for Alison and Jesse. What is your favorite part of this program?
Jesse_MBA12(A): Hi LZ. There are many aspects of the program that are absolutely amazing but by far my favorite part is meeting and getting to know my classmates. I have classmates who are from all over the world and who have worked in a number of different capacities across all industries and companies. You learn just as much from your classmates as you do from your professors.
NanesL12012(Q): Hi. I am finding difficult fitting my essays in 250 words. Is it ok if we exceed by 5-10% in the number of words?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi NanesL - I would strongly encourage you to do your best to stay within the word limit, but we will read additional text that exceeds the limit.
Ingrid_LANSARD(Q): Dear Alison, what is your background?
Alison_MBA13(A): I have a background in home entertainment and consumer products. Before Haas I worked at Cartoon Network Enterprises in eCommerce.
Nino(Q): Especially if recruiting for consulting starts so early - I'm switching to consulting - how do I go about getting an internship when there will be plenty of seasoned consultants competing for the same internships?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Nino - Many of our students pursue consulting positions, including those who have no prior consulting experience. You will have many opportunities in the first semester to prepare, including a 2-day Career Management Conference in which you can take a "Crack the Case" workshop and interact with many second year students and alums in the industry. Students who are making the switch without prior experience will have ample opportunity to prepare and be just as competitive in the job search process.
Etaro(Q): Can you tell us a little more about the teaching method? Is it mostly case study, lectures?
Jesse_MBA12(A): It’s a mix and will depend on the class topic and professors teaching style
LZ(Q): What is the requirement of GPA ? If I don’t have a good undergrad GPA, would you take my graduate GPA into consideration too?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): UC Berkeley's Graduate Division has a requirement of 3.0 or above -- but we can make exceptions - and we have when other aspects of the application are strong. GPA is only one factor of many and our review is a holistic process. If you feel that your GPA is a weakness, we will be looking at your GMAT to offset this. Besides the GPA number, we look at rigor of the institution you attended, rigor of major. Did you improve over time, did you work or were you involved with campus organizations, etc? We will take into consideration a graduate GPA as well.
rkulka09(Q): If I took a semester abroad, and it was pass/fail through a non-university program, and the courses, and their statuses (pass/fail) is listed on my undergrad transcript, is it alright to just submit my undergrad transcript? or should i contact the specific program and obtain a separate transcript?
Lee_Berkeley(A): Hi, rkulka09. In this case, we would not require a separate transcript from the education abroad program.
Ben.philips(Q): Thanks all. Quick question, I'm planning to apply either R2 or R3. My application will probably be slightly better in R3 with more time to revise, etc. But would it be advantageous to apply R2 if the improvement of my application wouldn't be significant in R3?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): This is a difficult question to answer, as only you can determine the importance of your improvements. We do encourage you to apply when you have your strongest possible application, as strong applications will rise to the top no matter what round they are submitted. That said, if you don't feel your changes are substantial then perhaps R2 would be better. Again, I apologize I can't be more specific but this is a very personal question that only you can assess.
Nino(Q): This question is for the current students. If I won't the opportunity to visit Berkeley before submitting my application, what would you say are the top 2-3 ways of getting a good feel for what Berkeley is all about (I don't mean the obvious sources)?
Alison_MBA13(A): I would say speaking with current students and alumni would be a great start. If you browse the website, you can see the current leadership for many of our student clubs. They would be happy to talk with you about your career interests. Secondly, I would suggest attending recruitment events in your area. Berkeley recruits around the world, so I would check and see when a representative might be in your city.
LZ(Q): How big is the cohort? How do you select international candidates? How many of them do you usually admit each year? Are there any particular strength of an international student you are looking for?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): LZ, We have a class of 240 - which forms 4 cohorts of 60 students each. We review and select applicants, both international and domestic, using the same criteria. We do not have a given quota for how many international students we admit, or from which country. It is always dependent on the caliber of the pool; and varies year to year (between 30 - 40% of our students are typically international.) We are looking for the same strengths in all of our applicants - leadership potential, team skills, etc. More information about admissions criteria can be found on our website: http://mba.haas.berkeley.edu/admissions/index.html
PaulFay(Q): Would you all be willing to speak for a moment on how Haas intends to grow its brand in the next 5-10 years? With the competitive marketplace as it is and ever more business schools vying for position
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi PaulFay - We are committed to furthering our mission to develop leaders who redefine how do business, through our culture, our academic offerings, and our physical campus. As we do so, we will certainly be thinking about how we can continue to strengthen our brand in the global marketplace. I encourage you to read more about our strategic plan! http://www.haas.berkeley.edu/strategicplan/
james_allwein(Q): For Alison and/or Jesse: What has been your experience with BILD? Can you talk a bit about the innovation twist in your core classes?
Jesse_MBA12(A): Berkeley Innovative Leader Development, or better known as BILD, is a connecting theme that runs through the entire MBA curriculum, both core and elective courses. New core courses such as Problem Finding, Problem Solving and experiential/elective courses such as Entrepreneurships drive you out of your comfort zone. They teach you different modes of thinking to solve complex problems, and give you practical real-world experience. They challenge you as a leader to be innovative, think creatively, and go deep to the root of real-world, real-business problems.
Etaro(Q): Was it difficult to find housing when you moved to Berkeley?
Alison_MBA13(A): I moved to Berkeley from Atlanta, so it was a bit of a challenge. Luckily, I had great peers and classmates who were willing to scout a few places on my behalf. When I made the move, I looked at a few places on my own the week before Math Camp and found something after just one day of searching. Visiting the area beforehand is helpful in determining which part of town you'd like to live in.
aarmo(Q): Do you consider a Master's degree (non MBA) as work experience? Are master's degree holders at a disadvantage in the application process?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): aarmo, this really depends on the degree and what you are referring to as work experience. Some students conduct research while in a Master's degree program. Any work experience you have while in school is considered when reviewing an application - including while in school. But, we are looking for individuals who have a strong sense of why MBA, and who have had professional work experience where they have developed transferable skills to make such career transitions.
Cindy_Berkeley: aarmo - To continue: Each individual's experience is so different - so it really depends. More info about admissions criteria is here: http://mba.haas.berkeley.edu/admissions/index.html
kochavir(Q): How do you evaluate quantitative skills if I have an undergraduate in Literature and work experience in commercial real estate brokerage management?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi kochavir - if you took any quantitative coursework such as calc or stats, we'll certainly look closely at that even though your major was in Literature. We'll also be evaluating the quantitative component of the GMAT to get a sense of your ability in that area. If you feel that quant is a potential weakness in your application, you might also consider enrolling in a calc or stats course.
Patrick_Keelin(Q): I read that part of the required first year curriculum is a class in design thinking. I was a product design student so I am very interested... can you tell me more or is there a place where I can read about the class?
Jesse_MBA12(A): Patrick - take a look at this video on you tube about the class. The professor gives a great overview of the class (aka Problem finding, Problem solving): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FHLFDTFfPQ
fjimenez(Q): Hi Lee, I studied in Chile and I did a semester in Australia as part of an exchange program. I've been trying to get my exchange transcripts, but I'm struggling! Anyway, my Chilean university transcripts show that I participated in such program but are not specific on which subjects I did or the grades I get. How important is to get the official transcripts from Australia? Thanks!
Lee_Berkeley(A): Hi fjimenez. If your courses and grades are not listed on your home school transcript, you must include a transcript from the Australian school. If you have a copy of that transcript, you can upload it for review, but if you are invited to interview, you will have to provide an official transcript.
Ingrid_LANSARD(Q): Dear Alison, could you tell me what are your expectations about your MBA and what career you would like to pursue after?Alison_MBA13(A): I expect that Haas will help refine my quantitative skills and develop my leadership skills. I also expect that I'll be able to leverage the Haas network upon graduation. After business school, my plans are to move into social impact--particularly Corporate Social Responsibility. Haas has a tremendous track record of placing students in this field after graduation. So far, I'm loving my experience here.
Skyler_Johnson(Q): Hello, as a high ranking business school with a non-profit specialty, can you elaborate on, or give a few examples of, the kinds of careers and positions that alumni focusing on non-profit leadership hold upon graduation?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Skyler - You can learn more about the Center for Non-Profit and Public Leadership here: http://mba.haas.berkeley.edu/academics/nonprofit.html. Students pursue a range of career topics, from education to philanthropy to microfinance, and our curriculum will prepare you for any of those paths. Some recent graduates have worked at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and FSG Social Impact Advisors, for example.
KublerC12012(Q): Are admissions at Berkley rolling? Or do you start reviewing them after the round deadlines?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi KublerC - admissions at Berkeley-Haas are by round. So, for example, we will not begin reviewing Round 2 applications until after the 12/1 deadline.
LaL12012(Q): Hi there. My name's Lena. Initially, I selected Round 2 in the online application, but I believe my application package will be much stronger for Round 3. Do you know where I can update this information in the online application system? I can't seem to update it on my own.
Lee_Berkeley(A): Hi Lena. You do not actually select an application round -- the round is set by the day you submit your application. If you submit by the December 1 deadline, you are in Round 2. If you submit after December 1 but before the January 18 deadline, you are in Round 3.
Ingrid_LANSARD(Q): Regarding the housing, is there a campus in Berkeley?
Alison_MBA13(A): There is campus housing for graduate students and a number of off-campus options as well. Many of my classmates live in North Berkeley. I live in downtown Berkeley, which is about a 20 minute walk from Haas. I have a few classmates (some with families) who live in campus housing. Finding a place to live will probably not be an issue for you.
JoshiM12012(Q): Hi, I read the last few chats posted online and got a lot of information about the healthcare classes offered at Berkeley. Emily Ewell spoke about the MPH/MBA option. I have a PhD in Biology and I am interested in the business of Biotechnology. Are there any electives/classes I can take other than the healthcare electives?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): JoshiM, Yes - there are numerous other electives that you can take - besides healthcare electives - while in the MBA/MPH program. I don't have all of the specifics - but am sure that if you reach out to Emily (hsa@haas.berkeley.edu - just address email to Emily) or Kristi Raube the Executive Director of the MBA/MPH program you can get a list or more specifics. We also just hosted an MBA/MPH webinar this week which provided more details about this program which will be posted on our website soon.
Alice(Q): Alison, how has your experience been with the career center so far?
Alison_MBA13(A): It's been great! There are a series of workshops that the career office hosts to prepare us for on-campus recruiting. We've reviewed resumes, cover letters, networking strategies and our career plans with the career office. I feel fully prepared to begin on-campus recruiting in the coming weeks.
LZ(Q): I come from a non-business major background. I have never worked in a business industry. Will that be my weakness to apply for the program?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): LZ - Haas students come from a variety of backgrounds, including many non-traditional fields. We do appreciate some exposure to business fundamentals - such as finance, marketing, strategy or operations - but it is not a requirement. If you are concerned this could be a weakness, perhaps try to highlight the projects you've worked on that are business-related and/or enroll in a course.
SN(Q): One of my recommenders is pressed for time. Is there any lee-way on timing for recommenders to submit or must they submit by Dec 1st for my application to be considered for R2?
Lee_Berkeley(A): SN, if your recommender sends the letter shortly after the deadline, there will not even be a delay in the review of your file. If your file is set up and we do not have the letter, your file will be incomplete and you will be notified. If the letter is substantially late and we are moving to processing and review of the next round, you will be notified again and review of your file may be moved to the next round.
Nino(Q): In your experience, does someone who's switching careers have a lot of difficulty in finding an internship in the summer in the field they're switching to?
Jesse_MBA12(A): Nino - I believe that it could depend on the field you are switching into and where you are coming from. You need to leverage your experience and demonstrate to recruiters how the skills you have acquired are transferable, your passion for the industry, and what you have done or are doing to understand the industry and the field you want to be in! The career center at Haas is a great resource for students and is here to help you achieve your career goals. There is definitely a large percentage of students here at Haas you switch fields.
Gary(Q): Is it better to start the MBA immediately after finishing undergrad work, or better to work for some time first, and if so, about how long?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi Gary - We evaluate professional accomplishments as part of the admissions process, so it is encouraged to apply after gaining some compelling work experience. Having some work experience helps our students both contribute more to and also gain more from the MBA experience. As a point of reference, our latest incoming class had an average of 5 years of work experience prior to starting the MBA program and the middle 80% of the class had a range of 3-8 years of work experience.
LZ(Q): what is the unique thing Haas offers students to prepare them as competitive as they can be in the business world, comparing to other b-schools?
Alison_MBA13(A): Berkeley is a unique place with a breadth of opportunities. We are a prime location for the tech industry, clean tech, social impact, real estate, entrepreneurship; sustainability... the list goes on and on. Haas is an excellent school for anyone wanting to begin a career in those sectors. We're also a very laid-back campus. We don't typically disclose grades and we're more collaborative than a lot of other top schools. The combination of these things makes a truly unique business school.
Ben.philips(Q): Regarding the letters of recommendation from alumni, I thought the website says "Please do not submit more than two letters." Do you actually encourage applicants to have alumni send in additional letters?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Ben.Phillips - You may only submit two letters of recommendation with your application, that is correct. If you have a strong relationship with an alum who would like to endorse your candidacy, they can submit a separate email note (or serve as one of your official recommenders). However, we cannot guarantee that it will be reviewed with your file.
sha(Q): I am an international student and I am re-taking GMAT and won’t be able to apply in R2. Am I at disadvantage if I apply in R3? In that case I might have to apply with my previous score. Considering I am an international student, please advice.
Cindy_Berkeley(A): sha, Thanks for this question. It is a frequent one. The decision is really up to you. My advice is to apply as early as you can taking into account that you want to submit the strongest application possible. It is true that come R3 we will have made a number of offers of admission - and we may have fewer slots available. With that said, it is really difficult to predict what will happen this year. What's most important is submitting your strongest application possible.
Scott(Q): Hey guys, do you have any updates as to interview invitations for Round 1 applicants?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi Scott - We began extending Round 1 interview invitations a week or so ago, and we'll continue to do so over the next weeks, up until the notification deadline.
cc(Q): If applying through the Consortium, is your application reviewed against other Consortium applicants or against the entire applicant pool?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): cc, Against the entire pool.
Ingrid_LANSARD(Q): Good Morning, I have a question regarding GMAT and TOEFL. If I apply for round 2 end of November and have a better GMAT or TOELF score after, for example, in January, can I still send my score? Or do you think it is better to wait and apply for round 3?
Lee_Berkeley(A): Hi Ingrid. If you retake the tests after the December 1 deadline and wish to substitute the later score, you must request that consideration of your file be moved to the round that the score date qualifies you for. This is the description given in our application instructions for the GMAT: If you choose to retake the GMAT after the application deadline for the round in which you applied, we will only consider your new score if you request in writing that your application be considered in a later round. This written request must be made at least one week prior to the notification deadline for the round in which you originally applied, and you should include a copy of your preliminary score report with the new scores. For example, if you applied by October 12 for Round One consideration and would like us to consider an improved GMAT score from a test taken as late as our Round Three application deadline, January 18, you must request no later than January 5 (e.g., one week prior to our Round One notification deadline of January 12) that your application be moved from Round One to Round Three. Please note that we will not move your application from one round to another simply because you plan to retake the GMAT; rather, you must have a new GMAT score in hand at the time you make your request. Furthermore, we cannot guarantee that we will consider the results of tests taken after our final application deadline of March 7.
Dee(Q): Alison, what is Math Camp?
Alison_MBA13(A): Math Camp is a two-week workshop that Haas hosts before school officially begins. During this time students are encouraged to review statistics, accounting and finance concepts. We're expected to know certain information about each subject on the first day of classes. For someone like me, who had never taken a finance course before, it was helpful to attend Math Camp (also known as Summer Workshops) prior to classes.
Alice(Q): How early do students start pursuing summer internships?
Jesse_MBA12(A): some students start networking the summer before coming into business schools and some students don't start pursuing summer internships until the spring semester. However, it will really depend on what career path and industry you are pursuing. For example, if you are interested in IB and/or Consulting, then it starts early in your first semester but if you are interested in Venture Capital or Real Estate (more non-structured recruitment process), then it will most likely be in the spring semester.
kochavir(Q): How would you rank the importance of the following factors in on admission committee’s decision? Undergraduate Institution ranking, GPA, GMAT, Work experience, Essays, Recommendations. I know that this is not an exact science but top programs do lean towards different aspects.
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Kochavir - Berkeley-Haas employs a holistic review process and does not weight or rank the application components. Thus, all of them are equally as important.
Nino(Q): Pardon me if this is a basic question: we're supposed to upload copies of official transcripts; I have the sealed official transcript; do I open it and scan it in? or should I scan in the unofficial copy and mail the official, if invited to interview?
Lee_Berkeley(A): Nino, you must send a scan of an official transcript for review, which means that you will have to open the official transcript in your possession. However, if you are invited to interview, you will have to provide a sealed official transcript. You may wish to obtain an additional sealed transcript now, so that you will have one available if you are invited to interview.
LZ(Q): How are you going to review my application? Who gets to decide whether an offer will be issued or not?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi LZ - Every application we receive is reviewed by at least two readers before a possible interview invitation is extended. After a candidate completes an interview (which is by invitation only), they would then be reviewed again by the members of our Admissions Committee who collectively make admissions decisions.
LZ(Q): Does the admissions have a preferred round for applicants to submit their applications? Will the reviewing criteria be different? Such as the number of the people that will be admitted?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): LZ - We encourage applicants to apply when they can submit their strongest application. There are advantages to applying earlier - such as more scholarship money available and more spots in the class - but we do not recommend rushing just to submit in an earlier round. We do not have offer quotas by round; rather we extend offers of admission to qualified applicants throughout the process.
PeterB(Q): How much research did you do before applying to Haas? Did you visit the campus or attend any events? If so, do you think this helped your application?
Alison_MBA13(A): I had a number of touch points with Haas before applying. I attended a few MBA recruitment events and kept in touch with the admissions officers. I also attended the Diversity Weekend on campus, and then came back for Days @ Haas II after I was accepted. I reached out to students in clubs that interested me such as Women in Leadership and Net Impact. I also reached out to Haas alumni to learn a little bit more about the program. Because Haas has such an amazing social impact program, I knew it would be a good fit for me.
LZ(Q): I am an international student but the education I have had through my life is in English. My school instruction is mainly English too. Do I still have to take TOEFL?
Lee_Berkeley(A): LZ, the TOEFL/IELTS requirement is generally based on the official language of the country in which you received your University degree, not on the language of instruction at the school you attended. I cannot give you a final answer until I know where you were educated.
Ingrid_LANSARD(Q): Dear Alison, when do Summer workshops prior to classes begin?
Alison_MBA13(A): Summer Workshops take place three weeks prior to the first day of class. For us, that was around August 1st. We had two weeks of summer workshops, one week of orientation and then classes formally began.
Scott(Q): for those of us who submitted round 1, can you give any insight as to the interview invitation process? Do invites go out once a week, as decisions are made, or in big batches?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): Scott, interview invitations are sent on a rolling basis as we review applications. We have started to review R1 applications, and have already sent some interview invitations. You could receive an invitation as early as today to very close to the notification deadline of January 12). Interviews invitations are sent as we evaluate applications. So don't worry, you may hear from us as late as Jan 12. We are still early in the process. We appreciate your patience.
LZ(Q): is there any chance for us to meet up with the faculty and have them introduce their research area/ teaching subject?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi LZ - You can certainly learn more about our faculty online to see who is teaching/researching a topic that aligns with your specific area(s) of interest: http://mba.berkeley.edu/community/faculty/index.htmlBees(Q): What do you enjoy the most about the city of Berkeley?
Alison_MBA13(A): Berkeley has so many perks! There are great restaurants everywhere if you're a foodie. The city is pretty hilly which is great for a runner like me. The weather is amazing. Berkeley is also very diverse, even outside of the school. I also love the close proximity to San Francisco. My classmates and I usually go to the city once or twice per week. Being so close to a metropolitan city is great for recruiting, networking and socializing.
Nino(Q): This question is for Jesse, as I'm assuming you're a second year. Could you describe the one big change within yourself that you'd say you've noticed after spending a year at Berkeley?
Jesse_MBA12(A): At Haas, you'll be working a lot in teams and the way the teams work together will most likely be very different each time. Some teams are also self-selected while others are randomly assembled by the professor. I've learned how to work with people with different educational and professional backgrounds, how to leverage everyone's strengths, and how to be productive and efficient with our time in order to produce results each and every time. It's an invaluable skill and asset that you'll be able to carry forward in any career you pursue.
PaulFay(Q): As I understand it, one of the big factors in considering previous employment is the selectivity of the positions. Yet, how does Haas view private employment? I have been rather successful in establishing my own consultancy; but as I have heard "freelance consultant" can be interpreted by the skeptical reviewer to mean "unemployed". How can I overcome this possible strike against me?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): PaulFay - When reviewing work experience, we are looking for a number of things including leadership, impact and progression. You can give us insights into your qualifications here via the resume, your essays, your letters of recommendation, and the work experience section of the application. We have reviewed and admitted other self-employed applicants so my advice is to use these channels wisely and show examples of leadership, progression and impact.
loveB(Q): Hi, I am worrying that is 8 years of work experience kind of old there?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): loveB, I certainly wouldn't worry about this. We are not looking at quantity but quality of work experience. There also is a range - The 80% range of work experience for our admitted students is generally around 3 - 8 years. This means 10% had more than 8 years of work experience. Again, this is only one factor in our admissions process which looks at many different criteria: http://mba.haas.berkeley.edu/admissions/index.html
Gary(Q): Some information has scrolled off my screen. Will the entire conversation be captured in the transcripts?
Vina_Moderator(A): Yes, today’s chat transcript will be posted on our website within a week.
AmyRy(Q): What do students do when they're not in class or studying?
Alison_MBA13(A): There's so much to do outside of class. Getting an MBA at Haas is truly an exercise of time management and prioritization. Club/organization meetings take place in the afternoons between classes. Companies are always on campus giving presentations and recruiting our students as well. In the evenings there are consumption functions (hosted by student clubs), happy hours and other social activities for the entire class.
Jess(Q): Thank you for your time this morning. I was wondering if you could speak to your interview process, such as when interview invitations are sent out, if the interviews are blind, etc.
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi Jess - We typically start extending interview invitations 4-6 weeks after a round's application deadline all the way up to that round's notification deadline. So for Round 2, we'll likely start sending out interview invitations in mid January. Our interviews are typically conducted by our team of trained student and alumni interviewers and can be completed either on campus or off campus in your local area. The interviews are blind, meaning that the interviewer will have only reviewed your resume and not the other components of your application (essays, letters of recommendation, etc...) Hope this helps!
NanesL12012(Q): Hello Jesse! What is the single thing you've liked the most up to now in your Haas experience?
Jesse_MBA12(A): Definitely the opportunity to explore a new career path without a commitment. It's an opportunity to test drive your interests!
cc(Q): For potential candidates making the switch from advertising to marketing through an MBA, what kind of resources are there available in terms of clubs, courses, etc?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): cc - Many students make the switch into marketing and leverage the Marketing Club, plus a series of marketing related courses, experiential learning opportunities and marketing case competitions. The Career Management Group also has a dedicated Marketing Account Manager who builds relationships with firms and sources related jobs for Haas students. You can get more information here: http://groups.haas.berkeley.edu/marketing/
RD2011(Q): Jesse, what was your summer internship? Did the career services department help you secure a position?
Jesse_MBA12(A): I did a summer in investment banking in NY. I did a lot of networking prior to coming to Haas but without a doubt the career services department was a huge help. Haas recently created new positions to direct strategy, outreach, and marketing for Finance which has served as contact points between the Haas campus and the business world for me and my classmates interested in finance.
PeterB(Q): Can you talk about the most interesting elective courses and clubs you considered at Haas?
Alison_MBA13(A): As a first year student, I'm still taking core classes--accounting, finance, marketing and a design thinking course. Next semester, however, I'm looking forward to taking two BILD courses at Haas: IBD (International Business Development) and a Corporate Social Responsibility course. In terms of clubs, I'm currently on the board for BBSA (Black Business Students Association) and Challenge for Charity. I'm also a member of The Consortium, Women in Leadership, Net Impact and Berkeley Board Fellows.
cc(Q): Who typically evaluates applications? Is it a combination of admissions officers, students and professors?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Applications are evaluated by Admissions officers and trained readers only.
james_allwein(Q): Hi, Does Haas track the percentages of students who receive internships and full-time offers via campus recruiting versus those who utilize personal networks and other avenues?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi James - That breakout will vary greatly depending on the industry, but in general, about 70% of accepted offers come through the Haas network including on campus recruiting and job postings, alumni referrals, and Berkeley-Haas career and networking events. Our Career Management Group works closely with each student for a personalized career search.
NIckCR(Q): Did you find a lot of club opportunities at Haas? Can you talk about some of the clubs you're involved in?
Alison_MBA13(A): There's a wide array of club opportunities at Haas. Depending on your interests, you can find a club for just about anything. Outside of the formal clubs in which I'm involved, a few classmates and I run together in an unofficial Haas running club. I was also a French minor in undergra, and a few classmates and I get together for lunch every few weeks to practice French. There's literally an opportunity for every interest you have at Haas.
Nino(Q): How would I go about finding alumni in my city who I could talk to?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): Nino, During fall recruiting, we ask our alumni to attend all of our recruiting events including fairs and information sessions. At this time, alumni sit on panels, and are available to answer prospective student questions. Our alumni also conduct a large proportion of our interviews. Because they are so involved, we are protective of their time and contact information. My best advice at this stage in the process is to contact the Haas Student Ambassadors (hsa@haas.berkeley.edu) or student club officers to ask them about their experience at Haas. Our students often will have personal connections with alumni. There is a list of Haas Alumni Network (HAN) regional representatives on the alumni website: http://www.haas.berkeley.edu/groups/alumni/connect/chapters/contact.html
NIckCR(Q): Why did you choose the full time MBA over the part time MBA?
Alison_MBA13(A): I knew I wanted to immerse myself in a full-time MBA program. It was the right decision for me. I also knew I wanted to experience a different part of the country and if I was going to uproot my life in Atlanta, it needed to be for a full-time program at a school I was passionate about attending.
Dee(Q): If we have MBA sponsorship from our company does that make us less likely to receive scholarship money?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Dee - Haas awards scholarships based on a number of criteria. Receiving sponsorship from your company does not preclude you from being eligible for a Haas scholarship.
Dee(Q): Alison, can you tell us more about the Berkeley Board Fellows organization, and your role within it?
Alison_MBA13(A): Berkeley Board Fellows is a program for Haas MBAs and Public Policy students who are interested in helping local nonprofit organizations solve governance-level problems. I'm currently a Board Fellow at Saint Vincent de Paul of Alameda County. Another fellow and I are working on the strategic framework for SVdP and will deliver a final recommendation to the executive team next spring.
AmyRy(Q): What is a typical student day like at Haas?
Jesse_MBA12: A typical day: class from 9:30am-11am, answer emails and prep for group meeting from 11am-12pm, group meeting from 12pm-2pm, lunch with a classmate from 2pm-3pm, study or class work from 3pm-5:30pm, chat with friends from 5:30pm-6pm, class from 6pm-9pm, gym or hang out with classmates from 9:30pm-11:00pm, study or class work from 11:00pm-12:30am. (It’s busy, but fun!)
basilegiese(Q): Hello, I come from Europe and I have two questions about European students. Do you have the percentage of European student in a class? I did not fin it on the website. If it is low, is there a reason?
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi basilegiese - I don't have the exact percentage of European students on hand, but our overall international student population comprises roughly 37% of the latest incoming class, with 38 countries represented! We also have a very active European Business Club here at Berkeley-Haas; please feel free to reach out to one of its officers for their perspective: http://haas.campusgroups.com/european/welcome/
Ingrid_LANSARD(Q): Dear Alison, I see that you are learning French: what is the place of language in HAAS? How many language lessons can we follow?
Alison_MBA13(A): Haas students are welcome to take electives at any school outside of Haas. I'm not taking any French courses now; I just practice with my classmates from time to time over lunch.
Dee(Q): Haas is a very diverse campus, drawing students from all over the country and the world (one of the reasons I love the program!). However, is that a disadvantage for applicants already living in SF?
Morgan_Berkeley(A): Dee - In short, no. Part of the diversity of our class includes admitting applicants from the Bay Area.
rbernal(Q): Hi, how do you see the Latin American student participation in Haas? Is it increasing over the previous years? How do you see it in the coming years? Tks
Corinne_Berkeley(A): Hi rbernal - I've seen a consistently high level of student (and alumni!) participation from our Latin American community at Berkeley-Haas over the years, and I hope to see that continue in the coming years! Check out the website for LAHBA (Latin American and Hispanic Business Association) and feel free to contact any of the officers: http://haas.campusgroups.com/lahba/home/
Etaro(Q): What is the one thing you would change about Haas?
Jesse_MBA12(A): I would open up more seats to all the popular class/professors.
aarmo(Q): What do you think is a good mix of personal and professional examples while writing the first 5 essays?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): aarmo, Although I agree that you want to provide examples of both personal and professional experience, I don't think there is a requirement or formula for this. I think it really varies, actually, amongst our strong applicants (admitted students). Some applicants will have more examples of one or the other - it really depends. My best advice is to look at the question, and think of the first example that comes to mind that is most relevant to you (and answers the question). Have someone you know well read your essays to make sure it sounds like you. We are definitely looking for authenticity - and to find out more about you.
PaulFay(Q): Alison, I'm excited to hear that you are involved in the Board Fellows program. Can you tell us more about your experiences there? What are you learning? What do you do with them on a daily basis? How is this helping to develop your character? (Hard questions I know! Sorry!)
Alison_MBA13(A): Our commitment as Board Fellows is eight hours per month. During this time we're expected to attend board meetings, meet with the executive team and develop a roadmap for how we'll accomplish our goals during our term. So far, I've attended one board meeting and have a follow-up meeting tomorrow morning. I expect I'll learn a lot about nonprofit strategy and board development. In terms of character, it's great to be able to apply what I'm learning in class to this nonprofit's needs. I'm excited about what my partner and I will be able to contribute to SVdP by the end of the year.
Amber_T(Q): I am currently refining my essays and was wondering how much you like accomplishments to be quantified in them. Should there be an element to essays that is slightly similar to cover letters, or would you recommend letting our resume and work experience speak to that and having essays be more narrative?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): Amber_T: The essays are your chance to tell us a little more about your experience - outside of the resume. I believe that the resume will contain additional quantifiable information. Hope this helps.
NancyM20(Q): I heard that the Bay Area has a lot of fun activities. What do you do on the weekends?
Jesse_MBA12(A): I love the Bay Area! It definitely played a role in my decision to come to Haas. I haven't met one classmate that hasn't fallen in love with the Bay Area. There is so much to do. You can go winetasting in Napa, hang in SF for the day or enjoy its nightlife, go to a college or professional sporting event, attend Haas social events (last night we went to the Cal Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park in SF), go surfing, go skiing in Tahoe, and the list goes on. It’s definitely a vibrant area!
basilegiese(Q): Thank you for the answer and your time. A last question, is it difficult for foreigners to find a job in USA after the MBA?
Cindy_Berkeley(A): yes - it is more difficult in that you need to find an employer that is willing to sponsor your visa. However, we have many international students who work in the USA after the MBA. So it is possible - just takes some extra initiative.
Etaro(Q): What made you choose Berkeley over other schools?
Jesse_MBA12(A): The culture, hands down. Also, its strong programs in entrepreneurship, real estate and finance. And its location and close professional ties to the Bay Area
NancyM20(Q): how restrictive is the word limit on the essays?
Lee_Berkeley(A): Hi Nancy. Please stay as close to the limits as possible -- you will not be dinged for going a few words over, but remember that our evaluators are reading thousands of applications!
Alice(Q): Jesse, were there any classes you regretted taking, and any classes you wish you could have taken?
Jesse_MBA12(A): I don't regret taking any classes but I wish I would have taken managerial accounting (it's a highly sought after class here at Haas).
SN2(Q): To the current students - did you consider Stanford GSB when applying? What made you chose Haas?
Alison_MBA13(A): I visited Stanford the same weekend I visited Haas. For me, I felt more of a connection with the Haas community than I did with Stanford. It's totally a personal decision and it's important to consider the best "fit" when applying to schools. I couldn't see myself at Stanford, so I decided to complete or submit my application there.
Vina_Moderator: Hi all! Thank you for joining us. The chat is wrapping up and shutting down. We appreciate your questions and we apologize if we didn’t get to all of them. Please check back on our website in about a week for a transcript of today’s chat and information on future chat dates. Go Bears!
Morgan_Berkeley: Thanks for your questions today; it was a pleasure meeting all of you. I wish you the best of luck!
Cindy_Berkeley: Thanks for joining us and for your questions. Go Bears!
Lee_Berkeley: Thanks for your questions, everyone! Have a good weekend!
Corinne_Berkeley: Thanks for all your questions on the chat today. We look forward to reviewing many of your applications. Best of luck!
Alison_MBA13: It's been a pleasure speaking with you all. Feel free to reach out to me with further questions: alison_brock@mba.berkeley.edu. Good luck with applications!
