2004 NYU Stern MBA Admissions Chat with Isser Gallogly

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Chat Transcript:

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 12:57:43 PM)
First I want to welcome you all to Accepted.com's NYU Stern admissions chat.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 12:58:42 PM)
I also want to welcome Isser Gallogly, Director Full-Time MBA Admissions; Adriana Viejo, Co-President of Stern's European Business Society, from Gexto, Spain and Bolanle Animashaun, MBA 2004 student from the UK.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 12:58:54 PM)
Thanks to everyone for joining.

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 12:59:11 PM)
Thanks for organizing this Linda.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 12:59:22 PM)
You're welcome.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:00:18 PM)
This is your chance to ask questions about Stern's program and admissions policies. But I would like to start by asking the NYU students to tell us a little about their interests, professional goals, and backgrounds.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:00:27 PM)
Sounds like an MBA essay question.

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:00:31 PM)
How does Stern differentiate itself from Columbia? Both have the NY advantage and both have really strong finance programs with well-known faculty. . .I attended the NYU info session a few weeks back but came away without a clear feel for the answer...

bram cool (Dec 9, 2003 1:00:35 PM)
How broad (in numbers) is the European alumni body?  Are networking events organized for them?

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:00:47 PM)
Hi everybody, I am also joining in. I am Mattia, a first year NYU-Stern MBA student from Italy.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:01:03 PM)
Welcome Mattia, I didn't notice that you had arrived. Sorry.

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:01:32 PM)
Bram, we're approximately ten percent of the class.  We organize network events in cooperation with Alumni Office quite frequently. 

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:01:44 PM)
What concentrations are NYU's strengths?  Does it consider anything beside finance to be its strength?

Fer (Dec 9, 2003 1:02:22 PM)
Hi Linda, thanks for organizing this chat. I am from Spain so since we do not get an official GPA nor percentiles, how should we report the GPA? Many thanks in advance.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:02:29 PM)
sub330- Both schools are really great, both have the advantages that you listed, it really comes down to a fit issue.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:02:35 PM)
iLuvNYC- Great question! NYU is certainly know as a strong finance school, we also have many other strengths.  Our marketing program is very strong, in fact almost 20% of our graduating class went into that field. 

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:02:56 PM)
Fer, hi! I'm also from Spain (2nd year student at Stern MBA).  You probably have to translate your qualifications system into the GPA system. 

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:03:14 PM)
Hi Fer, you can submit your transcript that is translated into English.  Admissions is very used to international students and credentials.   

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:03:27 PM)
Round 1 deadline had just passed; have you sent out any interview invitations?  How many of those being interviewed will ultimately be accepted?

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:03:34 PM)
What are some other strengths, Isser?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:03:44 PM)
Fer, did that help?

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:04:07 PM)
iluvny-We also have some very unique programs, like our Entertainment and Media Technology program. What are you interested in studying?

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:04:13 PM)
Isser, if you are looking at an application and the numbers and basic profile is in the ballpark for a Stern student, what distinguishes an application that is accepted from one that is rejected?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:04:19 PM)
Fer, say Sobresaliente or Matricula would be 4/4, Notable would be 3 or 3.5/4 etc.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:04:41 PM)
sonia-we interview about 30% of applicants, almost 100% of those admitted are interviewed. 

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:04:53 PM)
soniajohnson:-we are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and some interview invites have been sent out already. 

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 1:04:58 PM)
What is an acceptable TOEFL score?

aykan (Dec 9, 2003 1:05:07 PM)
What is the chance of a European finding a job in the US after getting an MBA? Is the average compensation different from the US students?

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:05:15 PM)
What would you say the NYU culture is? Collaborative? Team focused? Leadership focused? Competitive?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:05:52 PM)
Sub330, culture here is extremely collaborative.  It's not competitive at all (grades are not publicly disclosed).  We're a very team-based school, with down-to-earth people.  We have a very hands-on approach to work. 

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:05:54 PM)
NYU#1, the minimum TOEFL is 250. 

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:06:11 PM)
Adriana, could you elaborate a little?

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:06:18 PM)
Linda-We look at a number of factors, some things I can point out are the candidate's interest in Stern and the "fit" of the candidate with our culture. That is why the interview is so important in our process.

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:06:19 PM)
Does a Stern undergraduate alumni have any advantages in applying to Stern MBA or are they treated equally or maybe even more critically?

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:06:27 PM)
aykan:- the chances are the same for any top business school given the current economic climate. I managed to get both an internship and full-time job in the US.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:06:58 PM)
Isser is the interview a final, decisive factor or is it another data point that will be added to the file before a final overall evaluation of the file?

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:07:08 PM)
Isser ...I want to work in management consultancy, with a plan to start a business in 5 years time. 

bram cool (Dec 9, 2003 1:07:15 PM)
Maybe you can answer the question on culture in relation (or comparison) to Columbia?

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:07:32 PM)
sonia-There is no disadvantage or advantage in our evaluation. We do get a number of NYU undergrads who apply who are very strong.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:08:00 PM)
ILuvNYC;- I am going into management consultancy.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:08:03 PM)
Bram, I am not attending Columbia so I cannot speak to that, but here at Stern people really help each other. 

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:08:27 PM)
Mattia, talking of TOEFL ... under what conditions can I get an exemption?

Fer (Dec 9, 2003 1:08:34 PM)
Hi Adriana, I understand I will need to provide my translated transcripts. About the GPA though, I am afraid that if I convert it (by the way ? using the 4: sobresaliente, 3 Notable, 2 aprobado??) my GPA will seem very diluted. That is why I thought it would  be better to say NA? I am not sure though if admissions will have a bad feeling on that?  Thanks.

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:08:43 PM)
What is the teaching style - case versus lecture?

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:08:51 PM)
iluvny-That is a great goal. We place a significant number of people into consulting every year, almost 10% of our class went that way this past year. Also, for entrepreneurs, we have a number of interesting programs. There is the Berkeley center for entrepreneurial studies, there is the entrepreneur exchange student club, a family business club.  There is also a great case competition every year where the winner takes home $80k. 

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:09:08 PM)
Fer, don't say NA, you have to provide them an idea of your grades.  You can also convert it to a 100 scale, so that there's less dilution than in a 4/4 scale. 

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:09:21 PM)
iLuvNYC, look on the website, there should be all the details.

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:09:28 PM)
Wall Street Journal ranked NYU #37 in 2002, can you think of any reasons why there's a such a big discrepancy with that ranking compared to other ranking, such as Businessweek's? And is there any weaknesses NYU might need to improve?

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:09:36 PM)
iLuvNYC: - if you are interested in starting your own business, there is a great business plan competition that you can take part in, with the winning prize being $$ to start up your idea.

Angela (Dec 9, 2003 1:09:53 PM)
What percent of graduating MBA students in NYU have found a job this year?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:11:19 PM)
Angela; 98% of our first year students got an internship, and around 80% get full-time job offers.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:11:39 PM)
Sub330, the teaching style is a good balance of the two in every course. 

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:11:54 PM)
Isser... how does the faculty in strategy and general management or entrepreneurship compare with the Stern finance gurus?

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:12:01 PM)
I see this question appearing repeatedly .... How does NYU differentiate itself from Columbia ... and how does it intend to provide a higher level of professional and personal satisfaction?

Angela (Dec 9, 2003 1:12:16 PM)
How about international students? Is it also easy for them to find an internship?

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:12:42 PM)
sonia-Each ranking has a different methodology and the WSJ is very new and still evolving. Rankings are really only a guidepost; people should thoroughly research any elite business school to see if it is a good fit for both career goals and them as a person.

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:12:46 PM)
Angela: As an international student myself I can tell you we do just as well as the non international students.  Our strategy to find jobs is just different. 

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:13:33 PM)
In our applications, how detailed do you expect our career goals to be? I.E., how much minute detail should I include about my ST and LT goals?

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:13:40 PM)
Adriana: Could you please explain the difference in approach with finding jobs?

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:14:16 PM)
iLuvNYC: the strategy staff is as good as the finance gurus. Stern has been very active in recruiting great faculty members who are experts in their fields. I am a management and strategy major. 

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:14:54 PM)
iluvNYC, we search for jobs both leveraging on the University resources and our own networks.  University resources are huge, and international students have one advisor specializing in international students. 

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:15:16 PM)
Do you have any placement stats available for international applicants?

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:15:29 PM)
iLuvNYC, all top notch schools have similar characteristics; as we already said, at Stern we really benefit from a collaborative culture. 

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:15:35 PM)
aykan: 1/3 of international pool is from EU and they represent EU and Eastern Europe. 

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:15:36 PM)
sub-You should have a clear focus when applying to business school, things happen pretty fast and you will be turning in your resume and interviews almost immediately.  We want to see that people have really thought through their goals and have done some research on their intended field. We want to be sure that they are realistic and that we can help them get where they want to go.  Also, please tell us what in your past has sparked the interest in your intended goal. What do you want to do?

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:16:07 PM)
Do you see an increase in the number of applicants this year compared to last year?

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:16:11 PM)
What percentage of students get jobs via on-campus recruiting versus personal networks, online postings, etc?

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 1:16:15 PM)
When is the latest time of year that an international student will be accepted? We must have enough time to get visas.

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:16:20 PM)
Adriana: How is that different from any other big school?

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:16:24 PM)
Linda, placement statistics should be posted on the Stern website. 

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:16:33 PM)
Thanks.

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:16:40 PM)
iluvNYC, sorry, don't know what you're referring to.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:17:33 PM)
sonia-It is too early in the year to provide a firm number of applications, we still have two more deadlines. 

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:17:51 PM)
Follow up to the career goal question - I have some very specific "wants" in terms of what I want to do - but I am afraid of appearing so narrowly focused that the adcom thinks it is not possible...

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:17:52 PM)
NYU#1:- I started my visa process as well as my loan application in June and had everything done by end of July.

Angela (Dec 9, 2003 1:17:58 PM)
Could you tell me something about the application review process?

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:18:28 PM)
Bolanle, you are from the UK, right? Would the process be somewhat easier from certain countries than from others?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:18:49 PM)
iluvNYC, at Stern we have an OCD (Office of Career Development) contact exclusively supporting international students in their job search.

richlevine (Dec 9, 2003 1:18:53 PM)
I have a question about the waitlist for Spring 04; where are you at in terms of accepting people and how many more would you expect to be selected off the waitlist (approximately how many people are on the waitlist)?

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:19:32 PM)
Linda:- yes, I think the process is easier from some countries. I think most of the EU countries are very similar. I am not familiar with Eastern Europe, though.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:19:33 PM)
sub-you will have to use some judgment in your essay for your situation. You can state your specific goal as well as alternates to demonstrate that you realize you may not get exactly what you are looking for.

aykan (Dec 9, 2003 1:19:37 PM)
Are most of the students accepted after the first deadline (in November) or do we still have a good chance in the 2nd deadline?

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:19:40 PM)
Thanxs Adriana.

Fer (Dec 9, 2003 1:19:48 PM)
Hi. I have heard there are not many opportunities for university housing in NYU? How much is the average rent for a couple (I will be getting married).  I understand it will differ depending on the neighborhood, but can you provide an estimate?

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:19:48 PM)
Rich, the adcom is reviewing waitlist applications on a continuous basis. 

Angela (Dec 9, 2003 1:20:13 PM)
BolanleanimashaunNYU, where did you get the loan? Is it true that to apply for loans from US banks, we need a co-signer who is a citizen of US? How did you make it?

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:20:21 PM)
What is a typical class size?

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:20:25 PM)
Angela-our application review process is very holistic. We are looking for academic potential, career history and goals and personal characteristics. 

nyuchatguy (Dec 9, 2003 1:20:36 PM)
Hello, some EMT questions; how many students go for the EMT (entertainment and media technology) certification? Any examples of internships/full time jobs in the entertainment field for class of 2003?  Classes falling under the EMT certification are very numerous, how could you guys develop such an offering in so short a time (7 years)? Can we take as many EMT classes as we want as electives during the second year or is it limited?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:21:02 PM)
sub330, I also had (have!) an extremely focused career goal.  I conveyed that in my application and it worked out great!  It's good to be flexible, but equally good to be focused. 

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:21:10 PM)
aykan: - I applied in the third round and  there's an equal chance in every round, but obviously,  the earlier the better.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:21:31 PM)
Angela-we will use all elements of the application to assess candidates: transcript, GMAT, resume, recommendations, essays and the interview. We want a complete picture of each candidate.

nikolas (Dec 9, 2003 1:21:35 PM)
Has the recent upturn in the U.S. economy changed the students' prospects of getting hired for the better?

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:21:46 PM)
Fer, I just got married too and live in an NYU housing apartment. Costs, all included, is 2,100$/month. It depends obviously on what you are looking for.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:22:21 PM)
Angela:- I got an original loan from the UK. I then took out loans here in the US.  You don't need a cosigner, but you need to show that you have the means to pay back the amount you want to borrow.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:22:24 PM)
From my experience, too much focus in goals has rarely been a problem. Usually vague goals are much more of a problem.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:22:31 PM)
sonia-the first year core classes have about 60-65 students in them. The second year classes vary considerably, from 15 to 400! We have over 150 electives, so it really depends. 

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:22:52 PM)
How do you look at a reapplicant?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:22:54 PM)
nyuchatguy: EMT is now an specialization, not a certificate.  Internships include movie, sports and media industries. 

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:23:01 PM)
Angela: - I took the US loan because the GBP is so strong, I wasn't sure when I was going to work, EU or US.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:23:17 PM)
How is recruiting going for 2004 grads? How are international students doing in the job market?

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:23:39 PM)
Most of the students present are first year students. Have you started looking for internships? How is your search going?

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:23:53 PM)
Welcome Massimiliano!

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:24:11 PM)
sonia-we get a number of re-apps every year. On our website you can see the abbreviated re-app procedure (which can also be done online).  When evaluating a re-app, it is important that the candidate inform us as to why they are more competitive this year (a lot can happen in a year!) then when they originally applied. 

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:24:29 PM)
Linda, I'm 2nd year student, and I did my internship at Estee Lauder in brand management.  I'm looking for a position now.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:24:37 PM)
nikolas:- Recruiting has picked up. Companies are coming back for second interview processes.

Fer (Dec 9, 2003 1:24:40 PM)
Mattia-thanks.

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:24:48 PM)
Linda, thanks for the welcome.

dxbgrl (Dec 9, 2003 1:24:49 PM)
Stern has a reputation of being very much numbers oriented i.e., the focus being placed on GMAT and GPA scores of the applicants. Is this true?

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:25:01 PM)
Linda, we have started looking for internships quite early; the office of career development is very active, with the first interviews starting in mid-Jan.

aykan (Dec 9, 2003 1:26:05 PM)
Do you have preferences about the professional careers of the applicant?  Local companies versus international ones or auditing versus marketing....

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:26:21 PM)
Isser ... I am planning to join in Sept 2004. However, since I have been away from home for more than 5 years ... I wanted to quit in end of this year .... and spend 6 odd months traveling with my family .. how would the admissions committee take something like this?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:26:24 PM)
Linda, I'm looking for a full-time job in brand management preferably in the luxury goods industry.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:26:42 PM)
Adriana, are you planning to return to Spain?

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:26:51 PM)
dxgrl: - Stern takes the holistic approach. The current GMAT score 80% range is 650-750. 

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:26:59 PM)
Linda, I'm considering both Europe and the US.  Linda, I'm very picky about the industry I want to work in, so I cannot be that picky in terms of location.  I'm geographically flexible. 

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:27:16 PM)
aykan, I worked in a small consulting company in IT services in Italy, very regional. 

Angela (Dec 9, 2003 1:27:22 PM)
Have you sent out all the interview invitees for the first round applicants?

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:27:25 PM)
How early do companies come to campus to recruit for internships?

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 1:27:27 PM)
What is your biggest complaint about NYU?

dxbgrl (Dec 9, 2003 1:27:30 PM)
Thanks Bolanle.

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:28:14 PM)
NYU#1, we complain about too many things to do!!!!!

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:28:25 PM)
aykan, I worked 2.5 years in McKinsey, Italy. However, I have to say that in my class (60 people) there are 60 different background, small and big companies, local and international companies.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:28:30 PM)
Angela:- The first deadline was last week and we have started reviewing applications. The review process is on a rolling basis and some interview invites have been sent out.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:28:44 PM)
sonia, companies arrive on campus to present since the beginning of September: being in NY is very helpful ;-)

nyuchatguy (Dec 9, 2003 1:28:51 PM)
EMT continued: I read about NYU's close ties with Booz Allen, a leader in MC with strong entertainment ties, in one Stern brochure...can you give hard evidence (placement/alumni working for BAH)?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:29:00 PM)
NYU#1, there's always more things going on then what we can manage to do/attend to!!! It really teaches you how to manage stress!!

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:29:36 PM)
iluvny-You can explain your plan as part of your goals in your essays and how this fits into your life plan. Our review process is very holistic, we will not focus exclusively on one aspect of an application.  The other thing to keep in mind is how your resume will look to potential recruiters down the road. I cannot provide a point of view one way or the other on this, something for you to evaluate for yourself and use your judgment.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:29:40 PM)
What do you wish you would have done before starting your MBA that would have made the beginning/transition easier? Did you do anything especially effective that helped you?

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:30:35 PM)
NYU#1:- For me being an international looking for a job was hard, as the US economy in general was hard for internationals, but the market has picked up and I have a job based in the US.

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:31:13 PM)
I am interested in human resources management; I know there's no concentration in Stern for that. Would the admission committee see me as someone who doesn't' fit with Stern's culture or curriculum?

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:31:25 PM)
Linda, student should come early to find the best accommodations. Do your job for your VISA. Don't study too much, you'll do it in Stern.

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:32:17 PM)
Does Stern place many graduates into investment management - in particular, hedge funds? Or do most finance majors end up in investment banking?

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:32:24 PM)
nyuchatguy: - yes Stern has a relationship with Booz Allen and other consulting firms. Booz does have a good Media practice. We recently had a round table chat with one of the media partners from Booz. There are lots of activities between student clubs and companies.

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:32:26 PM)
B: when you say admissions are on a rolling basis ... does that mean that my application could be reviewed well before the deadline ... does it also mean that candidates are evaluated on their individual merits/ uniqueness rather than as one in the entire pool?

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:32:34 PM)
sonia-we are developing general managers who can pursue many fields, including HR (human resource). Simply explain why a Stern MBA will help you achieve your career goals in your essays so that we understand what/how you want to do.  Fit with the culture is more about your personal characteristics then career objectives.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:33:27 PM)
iLuvNYC: -yes to both your questions. You should get a response within 8-12 weeks.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:33:35 PM)
sub330, Stern is really strong on finance wherever you want to end-up: IB, Hedge Funds, Sales, asset management etc..

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:33:36 PM)
Did you find it difficult taking classes in a second language or were your English skills adequate?

Rachel (Dec 9, 2003 1:34:38 PM)
Students, why did you choose NYU?

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:34:40 PM)
Can you give us tips on how to prepare for an interview and what we should expect? Is the interview blind?

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:34:42 PM)
Linda, my English was not that good at the beginning. It takes a few weeks to be ready. Professors are aware about it and do their best to speak slowly and clearly.

Angela (Dec 9, 2003 1:34:43 PM)
What will be typically asked in a Stern interview?

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:35:44 PM)
Accepted.com's MBA Interview Feedback Database has interview tips, a collection of typical questions, and feedback from previous interviews at many top schools including Stern. It is at http://www.accepted.com/mba/interviewfeedback.aspx .

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:35:48 PM)
sonia-our interviewers are typically admissions professionals who are experts in assessing talent. Most of our interviews are done right here in our NYC office. Interviews are by invitation only.  The interviewers will have read your file in depth prior to the interview. You will certainly get the feeling that they know you well and have specific questions about you.  So, a good idea is to re-read your application before the interview.  Think about what makes you unique, how you will succeed at Stern, how you will help your classmates succeed and how you will help Stern succeed.  The interview is also a great way to get to know us better. You can often visit a class, take a tour of the building, etc. It's also a great chance to visit NYC and the village - make a weekend of it!

nikolas (Dec 9, 2003 1:35:55 PM)
Does not having an undergraduate in business means that I have to take a preparatory course?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:35:56 PM)
Rachel, I chose Stern because it's in the heart of the world's business capital! 

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:35:58 PM)
In addition to classes and recruiting - how many activities/clubs do Stern students take an active (officer) part in? How about less formal roles (attending meetings, cocktail hours, etc)?

Rachel (Dec 9, 2003 1:36:01 PM)
Is there a club for people with families and spouses?

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:36:18 PM)
Angela:- the questions are the same typical ones you would get in any interview, but with the obvious why MBA? why NYU?

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:36:19 PM)
Angela, I was asked about my long term career plans, my previous experience, my interests,... However, it always changes. 

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:36:31 PM)
Linda, plus the culture is extremely down-to-earth, hands-on, collaborative!

dxbgrl (Dec 9, 2003 1:36:36 PM)
A lot of finance majors in Stern will be coming from non finance backgrounds. How does this affect their ability to find jobs in finance fields such as Investment Banking, Investment Managements, etc?

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:36:42 PM)
If you get invited for an interview, do you look at it as a positive thing or its just another criteria of the application?

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:36:47 PM)
After the interview, are decisions mailed out en masse or do they get sent out on a rolling basis as well?

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:37:06 PM)
Nikolas, I'm a chemical eng. I did not take any preparatory courses.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:37:13 PM)
nikolas: - I have a undergrad in Biochemistry and worked in the pharmaceutical - R&D - before B-school.

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:37:23 PM)
sub330, it's on a rolling basis.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:37:24 PM)
sub330, Rachel - There is a whole list of clubs on the Stern website, just choose! Married couples too have a very lively club.

soniajohnson (Dec 9, 2003 1:38:31 PM)
How long are the interviews?

Angela (Dec 9, 2003 1:38:34 PM)
But MassimilianoSodanoNYU, when you were interviewed before you entered Stern, did you feel your oral English was adequate? What's the suggestions for those whose oral English is not good enough?

nyuchatguy (Dec 9, 2003 1:38:40 PM)
BolanleAnimashaunNYU: thanks for your kind answer. Do you know more about EMT? Do you guys place some people in strategic planning/biz development in the media industry?

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:39:03 PM)
dxbgrl, I am a telecom engineer and finance major; no big deal on job search, often diversity is better, at least you have a broader background.

nikolas (Dec 9, 2003 1:39:44 PM)
Thanks.

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 1:39:47 PM)
Is NYU responsive to student complaints\suggestions?

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:39:49 PM)
sonia- Interviews are typically 30 minutes. Being invited for an interview is a good thing, only about 30% of applicants are invited for an interview. Almost all admitted students are interviewed.

sub330 (Dec 9, 2003 1:39:50 PM)
Clubs follow-up:  My question is more about how much time do students have to participate in Stern clubs - there are a lot that I am interested in - and how many can one feasibly commit to?

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:39:56 PM)
Angela, it was just sufficient. I suggest you to read The Economist, FT,.. If you have any chance to practice your English do it (any friend in UK?).

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:40:24 PM)
sub330, that's a bit personal.  Some people prefer to commit heavily to 1 or 2 clubs, and others prefer to prefer to collaborate "less heavily" but to more clubs.  I'd say if you have an interest in several clubs you'll end up picking 2 to which you'll dedicate quite a lot of time to.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:40:38 PM)
nyuchatguy: - I don't know much about the EMT, but if you are interested, you can email mbaga@stern.nyu.edu.  One of the student recruiters who is focused on EMT can help you. Yes, there are a number of people going into media companies.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:40:47 PM)
Information about preparation before enrolling will be included with admission package.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:40:54 PM)
Is there any advice that you have specifically for international applicants?

iLuvNYC (Dec 9, 2003 1:41:31 PM)
What sort of loans are available to international students?

Rachel (Dec 9, 2003 1:41:39 PM)
To the students, how much are you paying for rent? Do most students live far from campus and commute or is it a mixture of both?

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:41:51 PM)
Linda, start early. Come to NYC for the interview, it may be a wonderful visit.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:42:16 PM)
NYU#1:- School is VERY responsive to our complaints.  The things that we provided feedback on from our first year have definitely been followed up on.

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:42:36 PM)
Rachel, it depends on the location and lifestyle.  I pay about $2,000 per month and it's at walking distance. Some students live far from campus, not many.  It also depends on how much time and resources you put into getting a good deal.  The difference is significant if you decide to share etc.  The range is very broad. 

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:43:02 PM)
BTW, in general, I strongly recommend visiting schools that you are seriously interested in, if at all feasible. It really adds to your knowledge of the different programs and cultures of the different campuses and ultimately the case for "fit" that you will have to make if you are to be accepted.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:43:06 PM)
Linda, the best recommendation is to come in a little early to get going with banks, phones etc... services consume time that you won't have when class begins.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:43:07 PM)
Thanks, Massimiliano.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:43:17 PM)
iLUVNYC:- The school has 2 loans programs for International students.  You can find out more information on the financial aid part of the Stern website

Angela (Dec 9, 2003 1:43:27 PM)
You mentioned that half of the international students came from EU. How about those from Asia? China, for example? Will it be more difficult for them to be admitted?

Rachel (Dec 9, 2003 1:43:33 PM)
What are the most common mistakes people make in their application?

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:44:53 PM)
Angela: - 1/3 EU, 1/3 from Asia and 1/3 from the Americas. The same criteria is used for all applicants.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:44:55 PM)
Rachel-common mistakes. Often people do not really answer the essay questions, or try to make one essay work for many schools. Really take the time to answer all the essay questions completely.  Also, many people are trying to tell us what they think we want to hear. The fact of the matter is after reading a few thousand essays we know when someone is being genuine.  Really be genuine, true to yourself and honest. Let your passion shine through!  Also take the time to be detail oriented. Do not rely solely on spell check, important roles in the company should not be spelled roll. 

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:45:50 PM)
Is there an advantage to applying in different rounds? Do you accept more people first round than second, second than third?

victor (Dec 9, 2003 1:46:18 PM)
Do you know how many MBA students end up starting their own business (%)? Is there an entrepreneurship culture at Stern?

Fer (Dec 9, 2003 1:46:24 PM)
Regarding essays, how important is to stick to the limits provided? Is it fine if, for example, you are 2.5 page in the first essay and compensate with other shorter ones?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:46:58 PM)
Victor, there's several courses on entrepreneurship at Stern.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:47:25 PM)
Fer, the best is to stick to the guidelines.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:47:45 PM)
Linda-there is no advantage or disadvantage to when you apply. Our advice is to apply as soon as you are ready and feel you are competitive.  As we are rolling admissions, each year the number of applicants varies over the course of the cycle.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:48:34 PM)
Victor, check out the Berkley center for the entrepreneurship website.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:48:48 PM)
Linda-One thing to keep in mind is that we have an admitted student weekend in mid-April, if you are interested in attending it is a good idea to make the 1/15 deadline!

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:48:59 PM)
Isser, excellent advice. I once saw a five or six stanza poem "Owed to Spellchick " where every word was misspelled using a homonym. The only thing spell check caught was the author's last name.

victor (Dec 9, 2003 1:49:29 PM)
Thanks Adriana, I'll take a closer look on the site.

victor (Dec 9, 2003 1:49:31 PM)
Mattia, I was more interested in a personal feeling about this rather then in statistics.

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 1:49:34 PM)
If we are admitted, what can we do over the summer to help us to be prepared for studying in the fall?

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:50:03 PM)
Victor, my personal feeling is that Stern's culture encourages entrepreneurship.  As I said, the culture here is extremely hands-on, we have a lots of practical courses. 

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:50:10 PM)
Linda-another common over reliance on technology is the find replace feature. It is never a good idea to say you really want to go to Stern because you have always wanted to live in Evanston, Illinois.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:50:23 PM)
LOL.

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:50:55 PM)
Angela, you can attend information sessions. The adcom will notify you in case they need to.

BolanleAnimashaunNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:51:09 PM)
NYU#1:-it really depends on your background. I had no finance/accounting background and for me doing a short introduction course would have been helpful, - but I didn't do this and still managed fine, just had to work harder.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:51:29 PM)
Is the interview used as a double check on an applicant's verbal English skills?

alexander (Dec 9, 2003 1:51:43 PM)
Do you feel that US work experience prior to getting an MBA is somehow vital for getting a job in US after the school? How many of you having a non-US work experience managed to get a job in US already?

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:52:14 PM)
Linda, the interview is more about knowing you and of course communication skill is one aspect of knowing you.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:53:29 PM)
Hi Pedro. Welcome.

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:53:35 PM)
Alexander, it mainly depends on the industry sector and your visa status. Banks usually don't care about origin, corporate might want you to already have a visa.

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:53:49 PM)
Any Italian chatting?

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 1:54:00 PM)
Advice for older applicants?

Fer (Dec 9, 2003 1:54:04 PM)
Hi - Can you recommend a specific awesome professor or class in both finance and entrepreneurship?

PedroCardosoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:54:10 PM)
Hello, Linda, I just arrived. My name is Pedro and I am a first year MBA from Portugal.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:54:20 PM)
Thanks for joining us Pedro.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:54:33 PM)
What did you do before you came to Stern? What do you hope to do after you graduate?

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:55:21 PM)
Fer, I recommend finance: Silber Damodoran Froewiss Altmann Yemark.

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:55:26 PM)
NYU#1, the age range is very broad here.  You should leverage on the fact that you have extensive professional background. 

PedroCardosoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:55:39 PM)
I was a business developer in a Portuguese conglomerate (Real Estate and Tourism area). I want to go to banking or financial consulting.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:56:33 PM)
NYU#1-For a typical profile of our admitted students, you can go to our website.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 1:57:57 PM)
Isser, you have mentioned "fit" during the course of this chat. How can an applicant demonstrate "fit"?

Fer (Dec 9, 2003 1:58:50 PM)
Massimilano, thanks.  Can you specify one or two professors? What course did they teach? Any recommendation in Entrepreneurship and a sight of WHY you recommend it? Thanks

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 1:59:26 PM)
If an applicant visits Stern and attends a class, does it really make a difference in the eyes of the ADCOM?

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 1:59:46 PM)
Great question - "fit" is really about finding a school that not only matches your career objectives but matches who you are as a person. Ask yourself, do you want to be in a rural area or a city? A big school or a small one? Do you want all cases or all lecture? Are the people aggressive? Supportive?

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:00:38 PM)
Fer, they are 5 Professors. They teach Foundations of Finance, Corporate Finance and other classes. For Entreprenuership, I'd suggest you to go to the website.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:00:44 PM)
NYU#1- It is always nice to see our applicants have done their research and demonstrated interest. A visit and going to class is one way to do that, there are many others too.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:01:05 PM)
As a follow-up to my previous question, many of you have talked about the collaborative culture at NYU.  At many of the chats, the students talk about the collaborative culture and about the "great people" at their particular school. While I'm happy that they're all happy, it also makes it difficult for prospects to differentiate between school cultures. No one has ever said, our school has a competitive, piranha-like culture. Could you be a little more specific or give some examples of what you like about Stern?

MattiaMontiNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:01:57 PM)
Bye everybody, it has been a pleasure but I've got a group meeting ;-)

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:02:40 PM)
Thank you Mattia.

AdrianaViejoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:02:48 PM)
Bye everyone! Good luck with your application process!!!!!!

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 2:03:54 PM)
ISSER, what are some other ways to demonstrate interest?

dxbgrl (Dec 9, 2003 2:03:57 PM)
Thank you and good luck to you in your exams and job search :)

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 2:04:04 PM)
Thank you Adriana.

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:04:06 PM)
Linda, I'm studying with very collaborative guys. I really want them to succeed and they want me to succeed. I hang out with them, it's a long term relationship.

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 2:04:32 PM)
Thank you Mattia.

Guest (Dec 9, 2003 2:04:34 PM)
Thanks alot.

Guest (Dec 9, 2003 2:04:36 PM)
Bye everybody.

Rachel (Dec 9, 2003 2:04:37 PM)
Thank you Mattia!

nikolas (Dec 9, 2003 2:04:40 PM)
Thanks for your input-grazie, ciao.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:04:40 PM)
Linda- From an admissions standpoint, this chat is a great example. The students here are in the middle of finals, yet they are taking the time to really reach out to prospective students. It's because they are great, wonderful people!

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:05:03 PM)
This is a good example. I know many schools would not schedule a chat during finals for just that reason.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:05:28 PM)
Thank you again all for participating this evening. Special thanks to Isser, Adriana, Mattia, Pedro, and Massimiliano for joining us today..

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:05:37 PM)
We look forward to seeing you at future chats. Here is a list of currently scheduled chats:

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:05:59 PM)
USC - Today at 6:00 PM PT/9:00 PM ET/2:00 AM GMT Michigan-- 12/11 at 10:00AM PT/1:00 PM ET/6:00 PM GMT UCLA -- 12/15 at 6:00 PM PT/9:00 PM ET/2:00 AM GMT Haas - 12/17 at 10:00AM PT/1:00 PM ET/6:00 PM GMT Chicago 12/18 at 10:00AM PT/1:00 PM ET/6:00 PM GMT

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:06:07 PM)
Please check http://www.accepted.com/chat/schedule.htm#mba  for exact times and details.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:06:14 PM)
Have a very good day! Good luck with your applications!

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:06:20 PM)
nyu#1-Show that you have really researched our offerings with specific examples, you can add this in our essays, you can also have alumni or current students vouch for you if you know some.

alexander (Dec 9, 2003 2:06:27 PM)
Thanks everybody. Bye!

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:06:45 PM)
It has been a pleasure. Good luck

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:06:54 PM)
All-Thanks for visiting us! We look forward to talking with you more in the future..........Good luck with your applications.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:07:06 PM)
Thanks again.

Linda Abraham (Dec 9, 2003 2:07:11 PM)
Good luck!

MassimilianoSodanoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:07:47 PM)
Guys, if you have any specific questions, my email address is ms1835@stern.nyu.edu .

PedroCardosoNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:08:17 PM)
If no other questions, thank you. If you need some assistance, email me to pnc212@stern.nyu.edu. If anyone is here from Portugal, I will be representing Stern in a MBA event in Lisbon, Dec.22.

IsserGalloglyNYU (Dec 9, 2003 2:08:21 PM)
If anyone has follow up questions for a second year student, we have several who work here in our office. They can be reached at mbaga@stern.nyu.edu

NYU#1 (Dec 9, 2003 2:09:13 PM)
Thank you! Good luck on your exams!

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