MBA: UCLA Anderson Chat (Nov. 26, 2001)

Please feel free to let us know if you would like to be informed of future chats by sending e-mail to chat@accepted.com. We would also be interested in knowing if you would prefer a different format or different topics.

Chat Transcript:

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:05:13 PM)
OK. Let's start.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:05:26 PM)
First I want to welcome you all to Accepted.com's UCLA Anderson Admissions Chat.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:05:51 PM)
I also want to welcome Linda Baldwin, UCLA Anderson's Director of MBA Admissions, Kim George, Associate Director, MBA Admissions, and our mystery guest — an Anderson second-year student. And last but not least, I want to welcome Sonia Michaels and Cyd Foote, Accepted.com editors.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:06:03 PM)
Thanks to everyone for joining.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:06:11 PM)
We encourage dialogue and discussion, but I would like to suggest a structure to make it easier to follow the threads of conversation. So here is the protocol:

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:06:19 PM)
We will post questions and answers to the chat. If you have a question on that material, please type a "?" and then your question. Our guests, other participants, or I will reply. If one of you wants to comment on the current topic, please jump right in. If you want to start a different topic, please type "?".

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:06:25 PM)
Final request: We would like to avoid the brief summary of qualifications (or even the long laundry list) followed by the question, "Can I qualify?" Or "What are my chances?" This isn't the forum for that kind of analysis.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:06:36 PM)
Other than that limitation, this is your chance to ask questions about UCLA's program and admissions policies. But I would like to take advantage of my position as host and ask the first questions.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:06:57 PM)
Linda, I know that UCLA doesn't have a GMAT, GPA or work experience cut-offs or minimums, but do you have a comfort range?

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:07:22 PM)
Moises and Andy, what do you think is the best and most distinctive aspect of the Anderson experience? What do you think it needs to improve or what is it working to improve?

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:08:26 PM)
The range that we post is the middle 80% range for the GMAT and GPA. GMAT 630-730; GPA 3.3-3.8.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:09:02 PM)
At Anderson, Andy is involved as a Career Management Center section representative, Riordan Scholars mentor, Planet Hope Tutor, and member of the Marketing, High Tech Business, and Entertainment Management Associations. Prior to attending Anderson, Andy worked in research and development for Procter & Gamble. Andy plans to pursue a career in marketing.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:09:36 PM)
I'm going to ask Moises to post his background information directly to the chat, because the attachment didn't make it here.

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:09:59 PM)
I'm really impressed by the diversity present in the classroom - not just the obvious ethnicity differences but also the diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and personality types. Regarding improvements, I can't think of any significant ones needed but I can comment that all concerns are addressed here and there are many channels to have your voice heard.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:10:15 PM)
Linda and Kim, how do you evaluate re-applicants? Do you review the old file and or just notes from reviewers of the old file? Do you compare the 2001 and 2002 applications?

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:10:40 PM)
It's your turn now. Please post your questions by typing a "?" and the question. I may interject a few later also.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:10:46 PM)
I'm Associate Director of MBA Admissions here at the Anderson School.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:11:10 PM)
Whether we are reviewing a new application or a re-application, we always review the ENTIRE file; so, in the case of reapplications, we will review the previous application as well as the short reapplication.

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 9:11:20 PM)
?hi everyone. Linda, I was wondering if it is better to apply at the end of the first round, or at the beginning of the 2nd round?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:11:23 PM)
17% of our incoming class this year were re-applicants

samnat2 (ID=53) (Nov 26, 2001 9:11:37 PM)
hi

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:11:43 PM)
Hello

Sally (ID=39) (Nov 26, 2001 9:11:46 PM)
?Linda, I have applied in the first round and realize that decisions will be mailed out January 15. Is there any possibility to be informed of an admissions decision earlier? I am getting pressure from another university to accept by the end of December to receive a substantial scholarship, but UCLA remains my first choice.

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:12:03 PM)
At, Anderson, Marcus is a writer for the student newspaper, The Exchange, a Riordan Fellows Mentee Coordinator, and member of the African-American Students in Management. Prior to attending Anderson, Marcus worked in finance at Procter & Gamble. Marcus plans to pursue a career in Investment Banking.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:12:24 PM)
Thanks Marcus, welcome.

BruinFaithful (ID=45) (Nov 26, 2001 9:12:31 PM)
?There has been talk of UCLA placing an excessive emphasis on the GMAT this year... any truth to it?

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:12:42 PM)
You should apply when you think your application is the strongest. If you need the extra time to "refine" your application then take it.

sweetness (ID=42) (Nov 26, 2001 9:12:43 PM)
?How important are activities outside of work?

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:12:47 PM)
Sally. We've begun to notify a few people who've been admitted from round one and expect to give more good news as we go

samnat2 (ID=53) (Nov 26, 2001 9:13:00 PM)
?Linda, will decisions be mailed before the decision date? thanks

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:13:28 PM)
BruinFaithful: We have never placed an excessive emphasis on any particular part of the application —

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:13:39 PM)
? Linda or Kim, could either of you comment on the trend (increasing or decreasing) of international applicants, and what the career prospects are for working abroad after graduation?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:13:48 PM)
the application is a holistic process where all parts are looked at with importance

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:13:50 PM)
Let's hold the questions for a minute and let them catch up.

Tibetan (ID=33) (Nov 26, 2001 9:13:57 PM)
? Linda, Kim and everyone, I am a first-round applicant from China. I wonder whether I would receive a notification card (I did it online and receive one email confirmation) and if yes, when. Thanks.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:13:59 PM)
while not everyone will hear before the notification deadline, some will. It's important applicants know the timing of schools responses and take those into consideration when they are applying

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:14:25 PM)
Activities outside of work are an important indicator of your level of involvement, breadth of exposures and the balance in your life.

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 9:14:45 PM)
?ok thx Linda, I applied for the first round, but didn't yet receive an invitation for interview. Are you continuing interview requests?

BruinFaithful (ID=45) (Nov 26, 2001 9:15:00 PM)
?So you are on a rolling process within each round?

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:15:04 PM)
Decisions are mailed weekly.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:15:15 PM)
Tibetan: We will be using primarily email to correspond with our applicants about their status on their applications — we've found that we can't depend on the postal service to deliver.

sweetness (ID=42) (Nov 26, 2001 9:15:19 PM)
?Most schools weight the quant section of the GMAT more than the verbal. Is this the case with Anderson?

samnat2 (ID=53) (Nov 26, 2001 9:15:51 PM)
?is there a way of checking decisions online or is it sent via post?

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:16:12 PM)
? Outside of a campus/class visit, what are some of the things that the Adcom recommends for prospectives in order to gain a better feel for the Anderson community?

Tibetan (ID=33) (Nov 26, 2001 9:16:15 PM)
Thanks, Kim.

sweetness (ID=42) (Nov 26, 2001 9:16:15 PM)
?In other words, is a 720 that much better than a 680 if the quant score is the same?

CNapplicant (ID=34) (Nov 26, 2001 9:16:30 PM)
?Linda, by "decisions are mailed weekly," when do you start mailing the first round decisions? Earlier than Jan. 15?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:16:38 PM)
Laban: intl applications are on the increase

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:16:47 PM)
laban con'td: they've been on the increase for years now

wwwzzz (ID=31) (Nov 26, 2001 9:16:55 PM)
? I did not have any quantitative courses in college and have only the GMAT quant score of 50 (97%) to prove my abilities in crunching numbers. Will that be enough for now? What else should I do BEFORE submitting my application to prove that I can catch up with the analytical courses in b-school? Certainly I will take a course before enrollment if accepted. Thanks!

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:17:22 PM)
laban - as for intl employment, it depends on whether intl mkts are hot to recruit MBAs and whether the interested student has done the legwork necessary to secure a job abroad

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:17:33 PM)
alumni interview requests are being processed at this time. Please be patient. It will be another week before you hear from us.

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 9:17:44 PM)
ok thx

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:17:50 PM)
thx KimG

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:17:50 PM)
sweetness. we look closely at your ability to handle quantitative coursework. The Q GMAT is one important factor that goes into this evaluation but we also look for grades in quantitative coursework like Statistics, Calculus, etc.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:17:53 PM)
laban - we've found that our students who have elected to go abroad have a great opportunity to find jobs "on the ground"

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:18:10 PM)
Marcus and Andy, what do you think is the best and most distinctive aspect of the Anderson experience? What do you think it needs to improve or what is it working to improve?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:18:24 PM)
samnat2: decisions cannot be verified online

BruinFaithful (ID=45) (Nov 26, 2001 9:18:53 PM)
?Can you comment on the employment figures (i.e., % employed) of this past graduating class?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:18:54 PM)
samnat2- you will be notified by email regarding your decision

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:18:57 PM)
Linda: My favorite part of being at Anderson is the true sense of community. The people here are great.

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:19:18 PM)
Linda A: The best aspect of the Anderson experience for me is the student body.

wwwzzz (ID=31) (Nov 26, 2001 9:19:22 PM)
? Will it be a big disadvantage if I have nothing else to show regarding quant skills, besides that GMAT score?

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:19:27 PM)
Andy, what about it?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:19:30 PM)
Career Management Center Website: http://www.anderson.ucla.edu/resources/cmc.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:19:39 PM)
a great resource for placement statistics for the past two years

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:19:50 PM)
Linda: As an African-American I would like to see a greater representation from a numbers standpoint. I know that there are numerous factors at play, but I would like to see that improved

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:19:51 PM)
wwwzzz. let the school know that you'll be taking a quant course before business school

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:19:51 PM)
Marcus, I am an Anderson (then GSM) alum. I fondly remember the collaborative atmosphere at GSM.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:20:24 PM)
Andy, what about the student body?

wwwzzz (ID=31) (Nov 26, 2001 9:20:24 PM)
Thanks, MCARLOS!

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:20:41 PM)
Marcus, is the school improving in that regard?

cb (ID=21) (Nov 26, 2001 9:20:44 PM)
?for on-campus interviews, do the interviewers typically review the application prior to the interview?

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:20:50 PM)
Linda: Very true. Not only does it feel like you are a part of a team within your group and your section. You also feel a part of a larger Anderson team.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:20:52 PM)
cb-NO

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:21:09 PM)
Linda: The student body is full of so much knowledge and they're all easy to talk to in an informal environment. A great way to find out so much with little effort!

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:21:10 PM)
cb-we will only review a resume that you bring with you as well as a short information card we like to have you fill out

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:21:27 PM)
cb- we like to be free of prejudice when interviewing

Steve (ID=49) (Nov 26, 2001 9:21:30 PM)
? Can you tell me what percentage of your current MBA students pursue the emphasis in Corp Environmental Management? Also, how many students belong to your Net Impact chapter. Thanks much.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:21:33 PM)
What is the role and purpose of the interview in the [application] process?

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 9:22:25 PM)
?Linda , a general question. Are you going to keep the % of admitted US nationals same as last year? I think there is going to be a significant % increase in US applicants. Will the adcoms' approach be preserving diversity or admitting more US nationals than last year?

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:22:34 PM)
Linda: Was your "improving" comment directed at the collaborative aspect of the school

samnat2 (ID=53) (Nov 26, 2001 9:22:37 PM)
?how was recruiting for the class of 2001? How is the internship going for class of 2003?

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:22:56 PM)
Marcus, it was directed to increasing the representation of African-Americans.

CNapplicant (ID=34) (Nov 26, 2001 9:22:56 PM)
?How do u treat typos in essays? (I found one typo in my essays to other schools. Fortunately not in Anderson essays.)

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:23:02 PM)
Linda, it's mainly a fit interview. We're also checking for communications skills, general presentation, preparation. Specifically, we're interested in knowing why you want to come to Anderson and how our program fits with your particular career interests

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:23:06 PM)
? Can anyone on the panel comment on the class teaching methodology - case vs. lecture, specifically, wrt Entrepreneurship classes?

BruinFaithful (ID=45) (Nov 26, 2001 9:23:29 PM)
samnat2 — see Kim's link to the CMC...it has the answers.

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:23:30 PM)
Steve, the Corp Environmental Mgmt Program attracts about 7-10 students a year. As for Net Impact chapter is extremely active attracting about 10-20% of the student body.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:23:57 PM)
CNapplicant. I wouldn't stress over it

CNapplicant (ID=34) (Nov 26, 2001 9:24:14 PM)
Mcarlos, thanks.

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:24:19 PM)
samnat2: As a member of 2003, the internship process is difficult. The job market is tight so it is important to wet yourself apart from your classmates

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:24:24 PM)
samnat2-recruiting for the class of 2001 started off great — but towards the end, as many of you know, b-schools around the nation were faced with rescinded offers and some students jobless — our CMC created a support group called Success Now! to help those students continue building the networks necessary to find jobs.

cb (ID=21) (Nov 26, 2001 9:24:48 PM)
?is the social aspect of business (nonprofit/social entrepreneurship) something that is becoming a larger focus at Anderson

samnat2 (ID=53) (Nov 26, 2001 9:24:49 PM)
?I am not sure if you have answered cnapplicant's question. When is the earliest Anderson will start mailing decisions? thanks

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:24:59 PM)
laban: All classes tend to incorporate both the case and lecture method. It really depends on the class and the professor.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:25:14 PM)
samnat2 - December 10 is the earliest we will mail decisions

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:25:47 PM)
Linda: To the African-American representation question. I feel the University is committed to improving the representation and diversity of the classes as a whole. I would like to see an increase in the numbers, but I feel the commitment to improve is in place

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:25:52 PM)
Letters of rec. Do you expect busy recommenders to fill out your specific form? Do you look negatively on letters sent by the recommender to all the schools an applicant is applying to and merely attached to your form?

Cushman (ID=57) (Nov 26, 2001 9:25:52 PM)
Kim, will you also notify the applicants via email ?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:26:02 PM)
cushman-YES

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:26:16 PM)
? Can anyone comment on the qualifications for the Venture Fellows Program — are any particular VC firms more closely tied with Anderson than others?

BruinFaithful (ID=45) (Nov 26, 2001 9:26:17 PM)
?Has your office given any consideration to the Successful Intelligence Assessment (SIA) test that has been developed by the University of Michigan (it's a complement to the GMAT that tests "common sense", for those who haven't heard of it yet)

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:26:20 PM)
in fact, you should find out via email before you receive the printed letter

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:27:09 PM)
cb - more students seem to have an interest in nonprofit/social entrepreneurship.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:27:20 PM)
BruinFaithful. No

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:27:21 PM)
Linda: We are working on Diversity Day programs and targeted marketing to qualified African-American candidates to increase awareness and hopefully increases numbers

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:27:22 PM)
laban - all of the VC firms that have hired from Anderson recently have been posted on the Entrepreneurial Studies Website

CNapplicant (ID=34) (Nov 26, 2001 9:27:24 PM)
KImG, do u mean we can send emails to adcom to inquire for admission decision? Shall we do that after Dec. 10th?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:27:28 PM)
http://www.anderson.ucla.edu/research/esc

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:27:43 PM)
Marcus, thanks.

mnaz (ID=54) (Nov 26, 2001 9:27:48 PM)
? Lbaldwin or MCARLOS, how many students pursue entrepreneurship at the full time Anderson program, and who has been the most successful entrepreneur that you have encountered?

Cushman (ID=57) (Nov 26, 2001 9:28:04 PM)
Thanks Kim. I understood that the applicant will not receive confirmation cards, but will the recommenders get such confirmation cards to confirm Anderson has already received the letters ? Or all thru emails ?

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:28:06 PM)
CNapplicant- Please do NOT contact us. We process applications as we get to them

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:28:15 PM)
laban - as for Venture Fellows requirements, there is an application process which includes, a review of your resume, your 1st qtr grades, and a panel interview

samnat2 (ID=53) (Nov 26, 2001 9:28:18 PM)
? what are the criteria for financial assistance? how many people generally get it? Is it merit based? thanks.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:28:27 PM)
the timing of your evaluation is beyond your and our control

Steve (ID=49) (Nov 26, 2001 9:29:13 PM)
Thanks lbaldwin. Given only 7-10 students following this emphasis, are you seeing an increase in interest in this area by chance? i.e. are there any other efforts under way to beef up the curriculum offering in this area? I'm referring to classes like Corp Social Responsibility, etc. I noticed that U.C. Berkeley has an emphasis in this area, so just curious whether it's on your radar or not.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:30:21 PM)
?Letters of rec. Do you expect busy recommenders to fill out your specific form? Do you look negatively on letters sent by the recommender to all the schools an applicant is applying to and merely attached to your form?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:30:34 PM)
mnaz- a good number of students take entrep courses — but the statistics of recent grads going into entrep are fairly small (4-6%); but 11 students started their own business from the class of 2001 — keep in mind, in an economy with little VC — so it is something people are really passionate about

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:31:14 PM)
mnaz-there are also a lot of students who will elect to work for larger corporations (or in start-up environments) to gain experience "on someone else's dime"

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:32:00 PM)
Kim G, I know many clients ultimately want to start a business, but plan on working for a few years first.

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:32:07 PM)
Financial Aid is handled in detail on our Web site. You should have all your questions answered. About 65% to 75% of student have financial aid. There are merit based fellowships available for both 1st and 2nd year students.

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:32:26 PM)
? Lbaldwin or KimG, are there any particular trends that surprised the Adcom with respect to first round applications/applicants? We have all heard how much applications have increased this year...any comments? What is your policy with respect to waitlisting?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:32:31 PM)
Linda - We would like it if the recommenders can at least fill out the grid on our recommendation form. We understand that students typically apply to more than one school and expect to see letters that follow a more generic format

BruinFaithful (ID=45) (Nov 26, 2001 9:32:34 PM)
I read a book on high tech VC's and a good number of the partners were from UCLA.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:32:43 PM)
Thanks Kim.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:32:48 PM)
Linda - that is typically the norm

BruinFaithful (ID=45) (Nov 26, 2001 9:33:23 PM)
?There have been several rumors around the Internet about a significant (100%) jump in applications for the first round. Is there any truth to this?

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 9:33:45 PM)
?kimgor linda: Do u think that a higher % of the students will be US nationals compared with previous years?

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:34:52 PM)
okt. we're always looking to diversify our class with international representation. We don't have any plans to change that from what we've normally done in past yea.

samnat2 (ID=53) (Nov 26, 2001 9:35:08 PM)
?I understand the whole package is important, what in your opinion is of the utmost importance?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:35:41 PM)
samnat2 - of UTMOST importance are your essays—not only do they tell us who you are as a person but what direction you see yourself going

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:36:17 PM)
Kim, Linda, or Moises, do you resent it or appreciate it when applicants who are wait-listed, write and say "I have heard from School X and have to respond to them by Date Y. Is there any possibility you could give me an answer before Date Y. I would prefer to attend Anderson."

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:37:23 PM)
Marcus and Andy, did you have internships? If so, where?

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:37:32 PM)
Laban: Yes, we received a number of applications in the first round. Given a rather down first round in 2000; we had a 91% increase in the applications received for round 1. There are no new trends that we have noted thus far; however we are just beginning to review applications from the 1st round. I predict that the waitlist will be slightly up for the first round.

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:37:50 PM)
? Can either of the students comment on housing and/or on campus activities outside of class? How much time do students really spend with section-mates/class-mates? Can anyone provide more examples of the sense of "community?"

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:37:57 PM)
Linda- applicants should consider the timing of their applications before they apply, not after. Since we deal with so much volume in applications, it's nearly impossible to individually address these circumstances

samnat2 (ID=53) (Nov 26, 2001 9:38:09 PM)
?looks like I am asking too many questions. If I see others asking, I will stay quiet. How important is sticking to the word limit in essays?

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:38:10 PM)
Linda: This is my first year with the program so we have not had internships of yet.

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:38:24 PM)
Linda: I am a first year student so I am currently in the process of looking for an internship. My understanding is that nearly all students obtain an internship between their 1st and 2nd years.

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:38:47 PM)
laban: I'll take housing first. For me it was quite difficult to find housing, but experiences vary.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:39:19 PM)
samnat2 - we don't have a word limit — but a space limit. please be cognizant that we read 4000-5000 applications a year — and if everyone were to go over the space limit, we'd have a hard time getting our jobs done — it can be said in the space we've allowed — trust us, we've seen it.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:39:22 PM)
How was your adjustment to b-schools? Are there any classes you wish you would have taken? or any prep you wish you would have done before starting?

wwwzzz (ID=31) (Nov 26, 2001 9:40:39 PM)
? Where are most international students working during internship? Back in their home countries, on the west coast or other parts of US?

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:40:49 PM)
laban: From a community standpoint, you can literally spend as much time at and with Anderson folks. There is a decent amount of group work and to do and there is a lot of social activities that take place.

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 9:40:51 PM)
?kimg-Your acceptance ratio is going to be about 10% this year maybe :)

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:41:18 PM)
laban: Housing - I met a roommate at Anderson Days in April and he met my other two roommates in Europe over the summer. I got lucky — they found our house in Santa Monica! Time spent with section-mates: It depends on the student, but for me personally, I have spent a whole lot of time with my classmates. However, I believe a lot of this is due to the fact that I moved here from the Midwest.

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:42:04 PM)
laban: There is at least one or two social activities each week. The part that is community is that you really enjoy spending time with people here.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:42:22 PM)
acceptance ratio: best guess is 1 in 16

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:42:35 PM)
? LBaldwin or KimG: Outside of the campus/class visit, is there anything that prospectives can do to gain a sense of the greater Anderson community? Is next Sunday's event substantially different from the off-campus info sessions?

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:42:42 PM)
laban: "Community" - from my experience here and in talking with friends at other top business schools, I find Anderson to be much more of a collaborative environment which was key for me. I wanted to be able to learn with and from others rather than be worried about who would be looking to step on me to get ahead.

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:42:44 PM)
laban: Sometimes familiarity breeds contempt, but that hasn't been the case for me so far.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:42:47 PM)
keep in mind that most schools will admit more students than the size of their class — y'all typically apply to more than one school

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:42:56 PM)
wwwzzz - international students typically work in the USA, some work abroad and many choose to work in California.

wwwzzz (ID=31) (Nov 26, 2001 9:43:10 PM)
Thanks, Linda.

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:43:36 PM)
Linda: My adjustment has not been that difficult.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:43:39 PM)
laban- The event next Sunday is different from off-campus information sessions.

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:43:42 PM)
Linda: My adjustment to business school has been smooth. The hardest thing for me was just to get back into the school mind set versus the work one. That and the fact that I'm no longer making money :)

CNapplicant (ID=34) (Nov 26, 2001 9:43:43 PM)
?Linda or Kim: did you see an increased number of Chinese applicants?

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:44:01 PM)
Andy, the money part must be tough.

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:44:06 PM)
? How so MCarlos?

samnat2 (ID=60) (Nov 26, 2001 9:44:16 PM)
?I have read quite a bit about the various clubs and events related to Entrepreneurship. How much of it actually goes on?

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:44:17 PM)
We'll have alumni and student panels, academic and career roundtables, an address by the dean

Steve (ID=49) (Nov 26, 2001 9:44:27 PM)
? lbaldwin or anyone? Can you address my last question regarding Corp Social Responsibility on your radar. It was a few minutes ago.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:44:43 PM)
CNapplicant - actually we see a slight increase — given the WTO entrance and Beijing 2008, there is definitely a stronger interest in China, but that doesn't necessarily correlate to more Chinese applicants

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:44:49 PM)
Linda: I knew and talked with a number of people who had recently gone through this transition to grad school and was prepared for the late nights studying

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 9:44:51 PM)
?kimg-what % of increase in admitted students do u plan to have compared with last year?

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:44:56 PM)
Steve - it was addressed.

CNapplicant (ID=34) (Nov 26, 2001 9:45:23 PM)
Kim. thanks. hope you enjoyed reading all the stories about 2008 and WTO :)

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:45:54 PM)
OK - we don't plan to have an increase in the size of our student body — 330 is where we'll stay

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:46:05 PM)
samnat2- I am not a member of the Entrepreneurship, but I see it everywhere: speakers, sub-clubs such as VC, high faculty involvement. You may want to check out the info on the website regarding the Price Center.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:46:21 PM)
http://www.anderson.ucla.edu/research/esc

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 9:46:41 PM)
ok thanks kimg, that is quite motivating :)

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:46:45 PM)
samnat2- the EA is the biggest club on campus. it has over 30 different programs and each has a student manger

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:46:54 PM)
? For all of you, what are the three qualities that you want to see in Anderson students?

coapp (ID=61) (Nov 26, 2001 9:47:03 PM)
?Maybe this question has been answered...I requested for an alumni interview. I received an email saying that it will not be arranged until you receive my application. I applied at the end of round 1. When should I expect to get an interview, Thanks?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:48:25 PM)
coapp - a lot of people applied in the end of Round — we're currently in the process of determining who will be interviewed based on the demand as well as the number of alumni in your area — I can tell you that alum intvs are not guaranteed — but campus intvs are

Marcus (ID=46) (Nov 26, 2001 9:48:26 PM)
Linda: I would want Anderson students to be smart, dedicated, and involved

mnaz (ID=54) (Nov 26, 2001 9:48:52 PM)
?Where can I find out about "this Sunday's event". I've been looking on the website for it...

Andy (ID=24) (Nov 26, 2001 9:49:01 PM)
Linda: I would want students to be committed, fun, and energetic.

Steve (ID=49) (Nov 26, 2001 9:49:24 PM)
? lbaldwin or Linda Abraham. Yes, you addressed my first question, thank you, but I had a follow-on question that I did not see a reply to. Basically, I was asking whether UCLA will be beefing up its curriculum in the area of Corp Social Responsibility, e.g. Berkeley has an emphasis in this area, so just curious if this is on your radar at all. Are you seeing an increase in interest in this area. Thanks!

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:49:54 PM)
Linda- involved, motivated, giving

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:50:41 PM)
Linda - three qualities doesn't quite capture it but since I am limited to three: intelligence; enthusiasm/passion and desire to make meaningful contributions.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:50:50 PM)
linda - 3 qualities I would like to see in students: passionate about what they want to pursue, dedicated to that which they have pursued, and exceptionally talented/bright individuals who offer a unique perspective

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:50:56 PM)
Linda, do you want to add more?

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:51:08 PM)
http://www.anderson.ucla.edu/programs/mba/embracing.html

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:51:25 PM)
that was for mnaz

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:51:33 PM)
? Can anyone speak about CIBER as it relates to students' international career ambitions? What are some of the resources/tools that it supplies students with? Do most international students tend to do their internships/jobs in the U.S. after graduation?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:51:46 PM)
more information about interviews can be found online at:
http://www.anderson.ucla.edu/programs/mba/interview.html

samnat2 (ID=60) (Nov 26, 2001 9:51:56 PM)
?Anderson seems to be ranked around 12 in BW. What are your plans for Anderson to go up in rankings?

mnaz (ID=54) (Nov 26, 2001 9:52:09 PM)
thank you MCARLOS

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:52:25 PM)
?Thank you. Kim, Linda, and Moises, if you're looking at multiple files, and two or three are ties, what's going to swing you?

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:52:33 PM)
Linda - I think the profiles in our catalog/website allude to many of the qualities we seek. They are too numerous to elaborate upon in one chat session.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:53:11 PM)
samnat2 - We don't adjust our program to move up in the rankings. We're always looking for ways to improve

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:53:34 PM)
laban - CIBER participates in a network of 28 such national centers that have been est'd to improve the economic competitiveness of US corporations thru int'l business education, research, and training.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:54:35 PM)
laban - CIBER does this through the int'l focus of the MBA curriculum and faculty research, working closely with UCLA area study centers and the student-led Int'l Business Assoc., and also provides funds and contacts for int'l speakers, int'l business study tours (last yr was to China & Argentina), int'l internships, and field studies

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:55:06 PM)
thx KimG

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:55:33 PM)
samnat2- If you're picking which schools to apply to based on their rankings, your choices are pretty well spelled out. The only thing you need to determine is how many schools you apply to. We hope that students take rankings as only one factor in choosing which school they'd like to attend but also consider location, culture, programs, areas of interest

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:55:52 PM)
Any questions?

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 9:55:52 PM)
Linda - we don't have ties. We look at each file and assess what that applicant has to offer us, and how that fits into the class that we are building. The "Class" is a work in progress which continues to take shape from November to August.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 9:56:26 PM)
Thanks, Linda.

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 9:57:12 PM)
thx n good luck to everyone in this very competitive year-by by

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:57:21 PM)
good luck okt

coapp (ID=61) (Nov 26, 2001 9:57:23 PM)
Thank KimG. So would not being interviewed put me at any disadvantage?

samnat3 (ID=64) (Nov 26, 2001 9:57:35 PM)
?What schools are some of Anderson's close competitors?

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:58:04 PM)
? LBaldwin - how much does diversity of the class (ethnic/educational/work) play into the admissions decision? I know in some schools this is a really big deal.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:58:13 PM)
coapp-no, but having the opportunity to intv and put your best foot fwd is fantastic — it also adds a personal touch to your application

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 9:58:43 PM)
in no particular order, our application overlaps the most with Wharton, Harvard, Northwestern, Stanford and Berkeley

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 9:58:49 PM)
coapp - if you are traveling to the LA area, please phone our office to arrange an intv

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 9:59:43 PM)
? What are some of the things that the Adcom recommends outside of the class/campus visit in order to gain a better sense of the Anderson experience?

coapp (ID=61) (Nov 26, 2001 9:59:46 PM)
KimG - I would really like to be interviewed but my work schedule make it very difficult for me to visit LA area even though I am in N. Cal.

samnat3 (ID=64) (Nov 26, 2001 9:59:56 PM)
Thanks Anderson team and Linda A. I appreciate your time.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 10:00:16 PM)
you're welcome, samnat3

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:00:36 PM)
coapp-we do have super Saturdays — where we interview prospective applicants — and there is one scheduled for this Saturday in case you can make it

coapp (ID=61) (Nov 26, 2001 10:00:50 PM)
? Has the application been up substantially comparing to last year? There have been a lot of speculations on the message boards?

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:01:06 PM)
You're welcome.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 10:01:09 PM)
coapp- yes, applications are up

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 10:01:25 PM)
considerably

scooter (ID=62) (Nov 26, 2001 10:01:54 PM)
I missed the first 45 minutes of this chat. How can I view the transcript?

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:02:26 PM)
Scooter, the chat transcript will be posted on the Accepted.com Web site probably in about a week.

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 10:02:59 PM)
? What does the Adcom focus on if an applicant's quantitative GMAT score may be marginal or borderline?

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 10:03:14 PM)
laban - we diversify our pool based on work background, academic background, geography, future career interest, unique talents/skills and life experiences/accomplishments. It is a big deal.

scooter (ID=62) (Nov 26, 2001 10:03:26 PM)
When are the first decisions going to be mailed out?

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 10:03:36 PM)
scooter- Dec 10th

coapp (ID=61) (Nov 26, 2001 10:03:43 PM)
? I want to learn more about Anderson's requirement of field study. I found this requirement very interesting. How have the past students felt about it?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:04:02 PM)
laban - we will look at your grades in quantitative coursework (including any post-bachelor's classes)

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 10:04:12 PM)
coapp- field study (MFS) is a fantastic program

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:04:30 PM)
Kim, will you also look at the quantitative demands of their work experience?

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 10:04:47 PM)
it gives our students an opportunity to really leverage their MBA experience in a real world environment

scooter (ID=62) (Nov 26, 2001 10:04:52 PM)
Is it true that admit decisions are sent throughout, but denials are sent on the last day for each round?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:04:53 PM)
linda - somewhat — but you have to keep in mind that we're trying to judge how they would do in an academic setting

Steve (ID=49) (Nov 26, 2001 10:05:06 PM)
? Is it possible to speak to current 2nd-year students or recent alum? How could I do this?

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 10:05:34 PM)
Steve, As far as I know at this point we do not have plans to beef up the social entrepreneur curriculum.

coapp (ID=61) (Nov 26, 2001 10:05:36 PM)
?Have the students done field study overseas in the past?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:05:39 PM)
scooter - no, we actually roll denial decisions as well

Steve (ID=49) (Nov 26, 2001 10:06:15 PM)
Thanks lbaldwin.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 10:06:17 PM)
Steve- we have a students admissions service you can contact. Ask to speak to a 2nd year student. Let them know your particular area of interest

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 10:06:30 PM)
?kimg-do u post receipt of supplementary materials on Embark web site?

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:07:09 PM)
Let's have 3 more questions and then we will close.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:07:17 PM)
coapp - YES we have had int'l field studies. In fact, a team of students (half on exchange in Japan and half here at Anderson) are working on a project for Sony doing a market entry strategy for wireless products in the US related to the CLIE (their version of the palm)

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 10:07:52 PM)
? Any comments on trends of this year's applicants to date vs. last years? I'd imagine more dot-commers, any other groups more highly represented?

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:08:01 PM)
OK! - no, we do not post information on the web — instead, we send you an email notifying you of your status once we have processed your supplemental information

coapp (ID=61) (Nov 26, 2001 10:08:06 PM)
? How do they take electives if they are overseas?

Steve (ID=49) (Nov 26, 2001 10:08:10 PM)
? Is there a significant disadvantage to applying 3rd round vs. 2nd round? What % of seats do you still have available in the 3rd round? Thank you.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:08:25 PM)
That's it for questions this evening.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:08:49 PM)
coapp- they are on study abroad — one is studying at Hitotsubashi and the other at Keio — the classes they take there count towards their degree at Anderson

laban (ID=44) (Nov 26, 2001 10:08:52 PM)
Thanks for your time everyone.

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 10:08:55 PM)
Steve- while we don't save seats, typically 70% of the class has come from the first two rounds

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:08:58 PM)
we have exchange programs with 40 partner schools worldwide

mnaz (ID=54) (Nov 26, 2001 10:08:59 PM)
thank you!!!!

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:09:04 PM)
50-60 students exchange each year

wwwzzz (ID=31) (Nov 26, 2001 10:09:04 PM)
Thanks everyone.

BruinFaithful (ID=45) (Nov 26, 2001 10:09:24 PM)
Thanks!

coapp (ID=61) (Nov 26, 2001 10:09:40 PM)
Thank you for your answers KImG.

okt (ID=43) (Nov 26, 2001 10:09:42 PM)
thx vm n by by

MCARLOS (ID=23) (Nov 26, 2001 10:09:54 PM)
we recommend that you apply when your application is its best

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:09:55 PM)
Thank you again all for participating this evening. Special thanks to Linda, Kim and second year students Moises and Andy for joining us this evening and to Sonia Michaels and Cyd Foote, Accepted.com editors, for their assistance.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:10:04 PM)
We look forward to seeing you at future chats. Here is a list of currently scheduled chats:

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:10:16 PM)
December 5 NYU; December 10 Consortium; December 18 Tuck; January 7 Wharton; January 16 Darden; January 22 UT Austin

Steve (ID=49) (Nov 26, 2001 10:10:27 PM)
Thanks MCarlos.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:10:31 PM)
Please check our chat schedule for exact times and details.

Cydney Foote (ID=36) (Nov 26, 2001 10:10:38 PM)
Thanks to everyone for all the useful info!

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:10:43 PM)
I appreciate feedback. Please send your suggestions and criticisms to chatfeedback@accepted.com.

lbaldwin (ID=29) (Nov 26, 2001 10:10:55 PM)
Laban - at this early stage it is too soon to assess the trends. However based on interviews conducted, people we met at Forums and the attendees at our Information Receptions we have seem an increase not only in dotcom types but even more individuals from investment banks and management consulting firms.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:11:01 PM)
thanks as well to Marcus — our first-year student who has done a great job of telling us what it's like to adjust... :)

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:11:33 PM)
Yes, thank you Marcus, I didn't mean to omit your name. We appreciate your contribution.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:12:24 PM)
feel free to email us if you have any additional questions that need to be answered: mba.admissions@anderson.ucla.edu.

KImG (ID=48) (Nov 26, 2001 10:12:36 PM)
you can also find information on our website at:
http://www.anderson.ucla.edu/programs/mba.

Linda Abraham (ID=40) (Nov 26, 2001 10:12:37 PM)
Have a very good evening! Good luck with your applications!