Students preparing for MBA should know that entrance test is just the first layer of evaluation and there are many more hurdles like GD and PI. Once the written test is done you should start preparing for the next level of challenges. Different B-schools have different layers of tests; some of these will conduct only GD or PI or essay and there are some which will conduct any two of these rounds and some even take all of the above. Though taking the MBA entrance exam will push you forward by many miles but the game is not yet over and students should strictly adhere to the following:
Self-introspection: Right after your test you need to sit and understand certain things. Finding out the performance in each section is a must to do as this will reveal you which one of your preparation strategies worked well and which are the areas of improvement. Once you find your weaknesses and strengths it becomes easier for you to estimate section wise scoring more accurately.
You might also record which time management strategies worked best while you were busy taking the test. Implement these techniques in your broader educational endeavours.
Engage in extra-curricular activities: Many students scale back on extracurricular involvements while preparing for MBA entrance exam. Now that you have time to pursue your passions again, make it a priority to do so.
Whether you enjoy campus leadership, community service, fine arts, sports or other activities, ensure you pick up where you left off before your test preparation. Not only will extracurricular help you lead a more balanced life, but they will also prove that you are well rounded for a top-ranked B-school admission committees.
After announcement of the test scores: Once the test scores are out, you need to focus on selecting the right B-school. Selecting a B-school is a huge task that needs proper strategy and information. Taking the help of a career counsellor is a good option. It is also important to understand that you need to take your test score, career objective, placement records and area of interest into account while selecting a B-school. Create a list of your target and programs in-demand that you might want to apply to. Then, explore each school’s website to determine which programs are ideal in terms of geographic and academic qualities. It is also helpful to discuss ways to boost your interview chances with your academic advisers and mentors.
Group Discussion and Personal Interview: After having made your choice, you should focus on the next two big stages-Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interviews (PI).
Every candidate must be aware that group discussions are exercise through which you will be evaluated by the panel members. Make meaningful contributions and be the one to initiate the discussion and if possible also the one to conclude.
Personal interview is all about telling the panel why you deserve the chance to study in their reputed institution. Be confident, answer only what is asked and be to the point.
Seeking a part-time job: Once your MBA entrance exam is done you should think of taking up a part time job as per your area of interest. This will not show relevance during your application, but will also ensure your seriousness and preparedness for the programs you intend to enrol. Admission committees would like to see applications with work exposure. This will also help you understand the dynamics of a real-time work ambience.
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