Full-time MBA Program
The Berkeley MBA – Online Admissions Chat
November 6, 2007
Chat with Current Haas MBA Students
Aneesh Krishna, MBA Class of 2008
Brian Gross, MBA Class of 2008
Lee_Moderator
Welcome to the Berkeley MBA chat. We’ll be starting soon. My name is Lee and I will be moderating the “Ask Students” chat room today. I would like to introduce Aneesh Krishna and Brian Gross, Haas Student Ambassadors. Please send us your questions!
Aneesh MBA08
Hi everyone, my name is Aneesh Krishna. I am currently a second year student at Haas. Prior to coming to business school I worked for IBM's consulting practice for 5 years. I decided to come to business school to transition to management consulting. This past summer I worked at Bain and Company. As regards my interests at Haas, I am the co-president of the Berkeley Solutions Group, the co-chair of the Graduate Business Conference and also a career coach for consulting. I am also a part of the Beer Club and the Rugby Club.
Brian MBA08
Hi, my name is Brian and I am currently a 2nd year at Haas. I have entrepreneurial and consulting interests. Prior to Haas I spent 4 years running a marketing services firm and worked another 5 years in supply chain/logistics. Last summer I interned at Boston Consulting Group and worked on a Biotech client.
Miguel80
hello, I'm from Colombia and I'm very interested in the MBA program, what would be a good round for applying?
Aneesh MBA08
I think you should apply whenever your application is most competitive. International students should apply no later than the 3rd round. I think historically, rounds 1 and 2 are the biggest. My advice is to apply as early as possible, but if a later application will improve its quality, then go for quality.
Luke
Aneesh, what differentiates Haas to you? Why did you choose Berkeley over other MBA schools? How has the school lived up to your expectations?
Aneesh MBA08
I feel Haas is unique in a few key ways: collaborative culture, excellent career services, strong curriculum and a very active student body. I have already talked about the culture in an earlier response. Being a small school there is a personal touch - something I value a lot. The career services provide a lot of tools and resources that help you with your resumes, cover letters and interviews. I also like the structure of their curriculum, especially the core because each course builds on another. Further, because professors use a mix of teaching methods, I feel they are able to choose the most appropriate one for a given course. Lastly, the student body is very active. There are more than 40 clubs, several conferences, and competitions. And all these are run exclusively by students. We also work with the administration to work on improvement and I feel they are very responsive.
Miguel80
excuse me is there someone taking courses about management information?
Aneesh MBA08
Hi Miguel, I am not taking this course. I don't think any other HSA is doing this course. Any specific course you are looking for?
Brian MBA08
I choose Haas after visiting and feeling a strong connection with the students here. I visited several schools and sensed a different culture. I think this culture partly comes from our small class size and knowing your entire class. Haas is also a place that encourages a wide range of career paths.
devesh
Aneesh how many Indians are there in your batch?
Aneesh MBA08
I am not 100% sure of the exact number, but my guess is 15-20. A lot of these Indians have worked or lived abroad.
tien
Hello. May I ask what schools were your top choices, where you were accepted and why you chose Haas?
Brian MBA08
I visited many top schools that had a strong entrepreneurial program. I also wanted a school that attracted socially minded leaders.
EMB
Why did you decide to go to Berkeley?
Brian MBA08
I attended one of the application workshops offered at Haas each Fall. During this day-long event, I met several students and felt a strong connection. They were people that I wanted to be part of my personal and professional network moving forward. This was a big factor in my decision to come to Haas.
tien
Do you feel there are any drawbacks we should be aware of, and consider in choosing Haas?
Aneesh MBA08
Tien, honestly I can't think of any significant ones. The only thing I could think of is being a small school our alumni network is smaller than some other schools. But being smaller the network is very tight knit and responsive. I personally like a smaller and more responsive network; and we also have access to the wider Berkeley network. The only other aspect is that we are short on rooms at Haas. There is a plan for a new building which should take care of it.
noahsoptions
How are the classes structured? I have read online that the teaching style is a mix of case studies and academic rigor, how would you most describe the teaching style and classroom structure?
Aneesh MBA08
Noahsoption, it really is a mix. For example, Finance is more lecture-based with several projects while Strategy and Marketing are 100% case-based.
Priti
How was your experience at Berkeley?
Aneesh MBA08
Priti, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Haas. I sometimes wish that an MBA was 3 years! I have talked about my experiences in clubs and other aspects earlier in this chat, so do read that.
tien
I understand that 'leading through innovation' is what Haas tries to instill. Can you toss out an example of something you've done that is a great example of what this means?
Brian MBA08
Sure. I am involved in a 2 yr program called peers@haas. Me and a buddy, along with a larger group of students, are working with Marshall Goldsmith (leading CEO coach) on changing one behavior that holds us back from being a more effective leader. This is one example of the innovation programming that goes beyond academics and other programs that keep us connected to industry during our time at Haas.
Gaurav
Hi Aneesh, do you know whether international students are as attractive to consulting firms as they are to technology firms? Are they willing to fund your H-1B, Green Card etc.?
Aneesh MBA08
Gaurav, I know that top consulting firms have no problems getting visas for international students. I know of internationals who have worked at McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, Katzenbach, ZS, etc.
Luke
Did you visit Haas before or after your acceptance, or both?
Brian MBA08
Both. I definitely recommend attending Days at Haas if you get admitted.
Bhavs
Hello. How many years of work experience you guys have had prior to pursuing an MBA at Haas? And what is the average in your class?
Aneesh MBA08
Bhavs, the median is around 5.5, and it changes a bit every year. You could get the exact statistic on our website. I worked for 5 years prior to Haas.
Ornwassa
How much is a chance of international students getting a job in U.S. after grad? Let's say in the financial services industry. Thank you.
Aneesh MBA08
Ornwassa, I know that consulting, financial services and technology are very welcoming to international students. Several of my classmates interned at Investment Banks and they had no issues. I would not be concerned. CPG companies and certain marketing roles desire only citizens and residents.
gagan
What are the biggest differentiators of Hass in comparison to other top B Schools?
Aneesh MBA08
Gagan, I have talked about what I really like about Haas in a previous response. I won't be able to comment on other schools as I have not been through those programs. I would encourage you to speak to students from those schools to get more information.
Wayne
What do you think is the greatest strength of the Berkeley program and what is the greatest weakness?
Aneesh MBA08
Wayne, I talked about a few strengths in an earlier response. Of those, I think the student body is the greatest strength. The students are accomplished, driven, yet down to earth. We have students who have worked in the White House, NASA, Ministries and so on. Yet they are all so approachable and helpful.
Ornwassa
How's your experience with the career center? How have they helped you in reaching your career goal?
Brian MBA08
I came to Haas with no plans to go into consulting and with no prior experience in this industry. The career center was very helpful retooling my resume and helping me with case interview practice. They also put together a career management conference during the Fall semester that allowed me to meet industry professionals in consulting and many other fields. Beyond the personal guidance I received, they have developed and maintained relationships with all the top firms – this allowed me to do first round interviews on-campus. The career resources are abundant here.
tien
Is there a trait that you feel successful Haas students tend to share?
Brian MBA08
Yes, I find people here feel a responsibility to leave the world a better place then they found it. This goes well beyond people pursuing non-profit, CSR, alternative energy or other similar pursuits. I also think people here are humble, but confident and accomplished.
Matt
Do you know anyone pursuing a concurrent degree in International and Area Studies? If so, do you happen to have any insights on the experience of earning two degrees at the same time?
Aneesh MBA08
Matt, I can not recall a name off hand. If you could send us an email at hsa@haas.berkeley.edu we will try to match you up with someone who is pursuing this program.
Luke
Have you had the opportunity to go to many Cal football games this year? Is there a Haas student org that puts on a football tailgate on game days?
Brian MBA08
Yes, the games are awesome. Many MBAs go regularly to home and away games. Haas has tailgates that draw 100-200 students. These also serve as a fundraiser for the Haas for Students fund that gives fellowships to MBAs working in non-profits during the summer.
Gaurav
Is it common for international students to start new companies after graduating from Haas? If yes, then don't they have problems getting H-1B or financing for the same?
Aneesh MBA08
Hi Gaurav, there are a few international students who started their own ventures. If you send us an email at hsa@haas.berkeley.edu we can try to connect you those students. From the class of 2007, 18 students started their own companies. Out of class of 240, I think this is a very good number. Regarding financing, I think that is a function of how well you pitch your business plan to VCs. I don't think being an international puts you at any disadvantage.
Helena
Hello I wonder if there are any MBA students with hearing impairment at HAAS? If yes, do they have interpreting services or other kind of services? Thanks!
Brian MBA08
I don't know of any hearing impaired students in the program. However, the UC Berkeley system accommodates disabilities to make sure you would have equal access to the Haas experience.
ryandantis
Is it necessary to have work experience to get into Berkeley?
Lee_Moderator
We strongly recommend that applicants have at least two years of post-University work experience -- most admitted students have four to five years of work experience.
tien
What does your typical day look like as a 1st year? As a 2nd year?
Aneesh MBA08
Tien, 1st Year: We have classes Mon-Thu, on most days they start at 9am. On most days you will have at least 2 classes, 9-11 and 2-4. On some days you might have classes from 9am to 9pm! At most one day will be like this. The time from 11-2 is usually used for company presentations, student meetings, etc. Then on Thurs eve we have something called Bar of the Week. On Friday there are review sections for certain classes - these are conducted by teaching assistants and are optional. Most students are free on the rest of Fri and Sat and spend time on Sun preparing for the week ahead. Second year: Classes are still on 4 days a week, but now you get to plan your class schedule since it is all electives. In the second year club activities take a lot more of your time.
Luke
Brian or Aneesh, what is your favorite thing about Berkeley as a community?
Brian MBA08
Are you asking about the people at Haas or the City of Berkeley? I think my previous posts commented about the people here. The city is far better than expected. I moved here after living in Boston and LA. After the terrific weather here, my favorite thing is the great food available here - awesome choices for gourmet, organic, and ethic food.
Go Berkeley
I am starting my own private consulting firm and am planning to attract venture capital to expand my business in China while studying MBA. How do venture capitalists view HAAS MBA entrepreneurs and their chances of being funded? I also wanted to form a management team from Hass MBA students. Are they willing to go to China? I read from website that HAAS produced many entrepreneurs.
Aneesh MBA08
Go Berkeley, several of my classmates are working on their own business ideas. Being in the bay area you have excellent access to the VCs in the region. The entrepreneurship center does a great job of connecting you with VCs. There is also a Berkeley Business Plan competition and last year's winner was funded $0.5M. I know some of my classmates are keen to work in Asia particularly India and China. Of course, if people like your idea and like working with you, you should be able to convince some of them to join you. We do have a few students from China.
Khan
(To Aneesh) you are an engineer with a good consulting background. Berkeley has an impression that it is more suitable for candidates with a technical background and those who are seeking a career with technical firms after their MBA. First of all, is this true? If it is true, to what extent has Berkeley been successful?
Aneesh MBA08
Khan, I don't think this is true. A lot of students go in to technical firms, but so do many in consulting, finance and marketing firms. In fact, finance is the most popular function post-MBA. Check out the information on the career website and the class profile. You will see we have a good mix of backgrounds and career interests.
Daniella
What is the annual budget for students living off-campus?
Lee_Moderator
The "official" budget varies between about $50,000 and $60,000, depending on whether you are a California resident. You can find more information at http://www.haas.berkeley.edu/mba/finaid/FTCosts.htm
Gaurav
What kind of personal grooming is done at Haas? Do they teach you to be good public speakers for instance? Is this course based on the students? What skills do they want to acquire?
Aneesh MBA08
Gaurav, there is a core class called "Leadership Communication" that is mandatory and teaches you public speaking. Other than that you have mock interviews where you get some feedback.
Ornwassa
Any of you is pursuing a career in financial service industry? Given that Haas is not a finance school, do you feel that an applicant pursuing this career path will be at a disadvantage to those finance focus schools (e.g. Wharton)? In terms of recruiting - relationship between Haas and recruiters in the industry?
Brian MBA08
Haas is not considered a "finance" school however all the top firms recruit on-campus for internships and full-time jobs. As a functional area, more students go into finance than any other function. We also have a full-time career services professional located in NYC who is maintaining strong relationships. We also have Richard Lyons on leave from Haas running the learning programs at Goldman Sachs. Career Services also arranges an annual trip to NY to visit top firms. One of my good friends here came to Haas as a bench scientist, with no prior business experience and he successfully landed a job this summer at JP Morgan and already accepted a full-time offer to return.
ryandantis
I am majoring in aerospace engineering and I don't know if my work experience in the aerospace field will be applicable to a business program, but I do want an MBA because I want to shift my career scope. What do I do?
Aneesh MBA08
Ryandantis, a very good friend of mine at Haas is a PHD in mechanical engineering who worked at Nasa. He is enjoying himself in the program and is contributing a lot as well. You should not be concerned.
Gaurav
What is the best way to connect with students at Haas during the application process?
Brian MBA08
Visit campus. The visitation programs include the opportunity for lunch with current students daily.
Miguel80
What do you consider the most important requirements to be a good prospective student at Hass?
Aneesh MBA08
Miguel, the admissions team looks for excellence in whatever you have done in the past: work experience, academics, extra-curriculars, leadership experiences, etc. No one aspect is more important than the other; it’s evaluated as a complete package. The admissions director has a podcast on our website. Please hear that to get a better perspective.
calbearintraining
What qualities, traits, skills does Haas value in current and prospective students?
Aneesh MBA08
Calbearintraining, Haas looks for accomplished individuals who have demonstrated strong leadership and are excellent team players.
Ornwassa
Could you please share your experience on your interviews prior to admissions? How should we prepare? Some interview tips would be nice :) Thank you!
Brian MBA08
I found the interview pretty easy. If you are invited to interview you are a strong candidate and you should approach the interview with confidence. Just know why you want an MBA and why you want to go to Haas.
Miguel80
Are there extra-curricular activities (sports) to complement the students, for example soccer teams, championships???
Aneesh MBA08
Miguel, we have a soccer club, a rugby club and several other groups that play regularly. A number of students participate in the inter-mural games. The soccer and rugby teams participate in several tournaments and also play the "Big Game" against Stanford Business School.
Fred
Are there any clubs/student groups available that focus on improving your own business? or starting up your own business?
Brian MBA08
Yes, check out the Entrepreneurs Club/Association and the Lester Center. They offer great programs to help start a business.
calbearintraining
how much flexibility do Haas students have to supplement their learning with courses from other departments?
Aneesh MBA08
calbearintraining, you can take up to 6 credits in any other UC Berkeley school. Should you want to take more than 6 units, you need approval from the Program Director
Lee_Moderator
Hi all! Thank you for joining us. The chat is now wrapping up – I will not be sending on any more questions to Aneesh and Brian. We appreciate your questions. Please check back on our website in a couple of weeks for transcripts of today’s chat. Go Bears!
Aneesh MBA08
I hope you found this information useful. Good luck to everyon
Brian MBA08
Thanks for joining - I am off to class. Good luck to you all – Brian.
