Hello,
I am currently a senior that will begin an IB analyst role at a MM next fall. In considering my options looking into the future, I know that I would like to pursue a MBA after I finish my 2 year stint as an analyst rather than continue in IB or PE. I also understand that this may be difficult because I would not only be competing with those who have BB and MBB analyst experiences, in addition to those who have a greater amount of work experience elsewhere. The reason I would like to attend a MBA program would be attain a role at a MBB after graduating. I would be able to then gain experience as a consultant, in addition to my previous experience in IB, to prepare for a more management-focused career in the long-term versus staying in finance.
Now having said that, would it be worth my time preparing for the GMAT now so that I can apply early to some of the top programs (HSW, Tuck, Kellogg, Chicago, Columbia) this coming spring and defer my admission for 2 years? I understand that many of the top programs give college seniors this option. Would it be looked for favorably upon since I can guarantee them that I will be working and gaining experience? Or would it not matter if I just applied in two years time? Please let me know what you think. Thanks for your help.
no one will let you defer for that reason. It's not like law school. Deferrals are extremely rare for b school. Moreover, your chance of admission to a top 30 program, much less those you mentioned, straight out of college, is slim to none.
Nothing wrong with prepping for/taking the GMAT right now while you have free time, but plan on applying during the fall prior to your intended matriculation (submitting apps Fall 2012 for 2013 matriculation at the very earliest).
I very seriously considered doing this, so I know that it is actually possible to apply straight from undergrad and get a deferral. In fact, it's becoming more and more common. That being said, there are only a few schools that will let you do this:
Again, I thought about doing this, but then I realized what a bad idea it was. Your MBA is like a "get out of jail free" card, so why would you want to limit where you escape to? Your desires may change in two years, so just apply then. You're not going to be more likely to get in as a college senior, so don't waste your time.
The HBS program you're referring to is the 2+2 program and they have already finished interviewing, accepting, etc.
The 2+2 program is for rising college seniors. This program usually accepts around 100 people and gives them deferred admission.
On TOP of that program, college seniors can apply and defer admissions for two years. Last year, I was told by someone very close to admissions (and one of these accepted seniors) that HBS admitted a significant number of seniors and deferred them in addition to the 2+2 kids.
awesome, thanks for your advice
^^Another reason why I think HBS gets a little too much credit for what it is. Yes, a great program, but I thought a big part of an MBA was having a class of experienced individuals, not kids with 2 years in a junior role with little life experience. I think Wharton is better, they have a much higher average number years work experience per student.
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