Applicants now have three essay options to choose from. Associate dean, MBA admissions, and director of marketing, Shelly Heinrich, and MBA candidate, Homero Soto, tell you how to get accepted
Since Paul Almeida took over as dean of last year, innovation has been on everyone’s lips. It’s a change that’s seeping into every corner of the MBA, including admissions.The revamped MBA application process, as associate dean, MBA admissions and director of marketing, Shelly Heinrich puts it, is a drive to boost the diversity of future cohorts and allow students’ personal brand to shine through more. The major change, she explains, is a move away from a singular essay to three options, each covering a different theme.
Shelly says that, in the past, the singular essay was bringing in answers that were too similar—to admit a cohort spanning the spectrum of educational background, ethnicity, life, and professional experience, something had to change.
“We asked ourselves, ‘are we allowing students the ability to pick their value proposition and truly highlight it?’” she says. “Depending on what that is they may or may not be able to spin it into one essay prompt.”
The incoming class of 2019—whose first-round application deadline was October 9th—will be the first cohort to test-drive the new admissions process, with three distinctly-themed essays to choose from.
Georgetown's three MBA essay themes:
1. Leadership; examples of being pushed out of your comfort zone.
2. Self-awareness; overcoming challenges and how to use the MBA to fill your skills gap.
3. Values & Beliefs; promoting your personal brand.
Shelly’s advice?
“First think about your competitive advantage; what makes you different to every other MBA candidate. Once that’s determined then go into the essay and pick one which allows you to best highlight your value proposition.”
For the change to the MBA admissions process at to succeed in driving a more diverse cohort, Shelly and her team will also have to overcome what she says is currently one of the biggest challenges to MBA admissions teams in the US: dropping application numbers from international talent.
Shelly explains that it’s the job of MBA admissions teams to educate them that what was the same two years ago, is still the same in terms of the MBA offering, easing their concerns.
“There’s a lot of misinformation out there in the media, a frenzy happening, and sometimes international students don’t have access to the most accurate information,” she asserts.
One way of doing that, she adds, is by highlighting the experiences of international students who are currently at Georgetown McDonough, alongside alumni who have found success in the US after graduating.
Homero Soto is one such example. Homero hails from Mexico and is a member of Georgetown McDonough’s MBA class of 2020.
He brings with him a wealth of experience, having worked in financial services, wealth management, and for the Mexican Government’s Ministry of Finance—where he liaised with organizations such as the IMF and the World Bank—before the MBA.
Homero says that while he applied to various other MBA schools, and indeed had three offers on the table, none could compete with the exposure to a global setting and the brand that Georgetown McDonough could offer. He adds that he turned down a 50% scholarship offer from another school to pursue his MBA in Washington, DC.
Homero’s advice to prospective applicants to Georgetown McDonough’s MBA is to attend the Welcome Weekend—it was the people he met there, he says, that convinced him he was taking the right path.
“I spoke to the current first-year students and I can remember one conversation that tipped the balance towards Georgetown,” he recalls.
Homero spoke to a woman who explained she was in a very similar situation to him. She had a full scholarship offer from another school but still picked Georgetown McDonough. “At the end of the day,” Homero says, “I realized that Georgetown had something else, and for me that was the tipping point.”
Before the interview process, Homero says MBA applicants to should know what they want from the program. Homing in on your personal brand is equally important.
“Make a list of all of your strong points that you can sell in the application, because you have to come across as a well-rounded person,” he explains, “not only academically, and with job experience, but also extra-curricular activities are well depicted in your profile.”
Gather together your most meaningful stories, he advises, and have them organized down to a tee. Stories that communicate leadership, problem solving, communication. But don’t sacrifice personality.
“In the end, when interviewing with the admissions officer, I think the most important thing was not only to convey my ideas but to have a meaningful touch point,” Homero says.
“It was not only about selling myself, but getting to know the admissions officer, because when you focus more on the person it becomes more meaningful.”
Student Reviews
Georgetown: McDonough School of Business
GWU - excellent investment for future
George Washington University is a good respected institution with strong programs in various studies, including project management, international affairs, politics, medicine and etc. The university provides students with good opportunities for internships and networking.
GWU has a diverse student body and a reputation for academic excellence.
Safety on campus
I have had an amazing experience at Georgetown University. The classes are enjoyable, the professors are exceptional, and I feel like I am receiving a worthwhile education. The people and faculty at this institution are extraordinary, and I have discovered my true self while being here. Additionally, I always feel secure on campus, as it is the safest place in town.
Georgetown is on top!
I've been enjoying this school so far. I wouldn't alter it, despite the fact that the school is on a hill and that it requires a lot of walking to get around it. For minority and first-generation students, there are a ton of services available. Even though the usual dorm rooms are modest, there is still plenty of area for storage. We have a ton of alternatives every day in the dining halls since they provide so many different dishes from so many different cultures
Physical and mental health
Georgetown is my second home. The pre-professional counselors are incredibly helpful, and I feel supported and inspired to pursue my aspirations. We are certainly ranked as the top research university in the nation. They place a high priority on the development of the students as well as their physical and mental well-being.
Wonderful university
Georgetown University is wonderful. The school's amazing diversity is one of its greatest strengths. The athletes are extremely committed to their sport, and the campus is amazing. The dorms are excellent! They are comfortable and spacious. If you ever find yourself bored on campus, you can always go off campus; it's fantastic. You'll never get bored dining in the cafeteria because the food is so delicious on campus.
Academics
The university's academics are what really set it apart; the lecturers are kind and motivating. Although it can be challenging to connect with the majority of students because they are so intense and competitive, social life and student life are what you make of them. It is undoubtedly a very difficult four years that are challenging to get through. But in the end, it strengthens you and provides you with a wealth of knowledge and incredible prospects.
Fantastic university
Georgetown university is a Fantastic university. The professors are outstanding, there are lots of ways to participate in campus life, and there are numerous groups and organizations where students can get involved. The campus is lovely and always kept clean, and there are people are willing to assist you 24 hours a day whenever you need help.
Review of Georgetown university
Being at Georgetown university has been one of my best experiences. The Professors are knowledgeable, approachable, and very helpful. You will fall in love with Georgetown because of its daily activities, the vibrant students you will encounter, the food served on campus, and the lush surroundings. The housing and dorms are fantastic. There is no better place than Georgetown University if you’re looking to study, discover new things, make lifelong friends, and have fun!
Academically challenging institution
Georgetown University is certainly an academically challenging institution, however, if you ask for assistance when you need it, the workload can be managed. Students are happy to assist one another, and most Professor want you to succeed. Student life is vibrant, the location is excellent and everyone here is friendly and welcoming.
4 Years as an Expat at Georgetown University
Georgetown University provided an exceptional environment for my academic journey as an expat from Italy. As someone who initially felt apprehensive about moving to a new country, Georgetown quickly alleviated my concerns and made my transition incredibly smooth.
One of the standout features of Georgetown is its diverse and welcoming community, particularly for international students. The campus is teeming with students from various corners of the globe, fostering a rich cultural tapestry that made me feel right at home. The vibrant campus life and numerous extracurricular activities offered ample opportunities to connect with fellow students, ensuring a well-rounded and fulfilling university experience.
Georgetown's unique setting within the heart of Washington, DC, adds another layer to its charm. While the university is situated in the bustling city, the campus in the historic area of Georgetown provides a distinct and almost intimate atmosphere. This blend creates a truly unique feel and contributes to an unforgettable educational experience.
Initially enrolled in the College with a desire to major in Linguistics and minor in Art & Journalism, I appreciated the flexibility and openness of the Georgetown education system. After my freshman year, I discovered my true passion lay in Marketing and International Business. The university's seamless transfer process allowed me to transition to the McDonough Business School, where I found the perfect fit for my academic aspirations.
Georgetown's commitment to helping students explore and find their academic niche is indeed one of its most commendable qualities. The ability to explore various subjects before settling on a major is a testament to the university's dedication to fostering individual growth and success. The journey from Linguistics to Marketing & International Business exemplifies the beauty of a Georgetown education — a dynamic and supportive environment where students can discover and pursue their true passions.
In conclusion, Georgetown University provided not only a top-notch academic education but also a transformative and enriching experience. From the welcoming international community to the unique campus setting and the flexibility to explore diverse academic paths, Georgetown stands out as a beacon of higher education that truly caters to the individual journey of each student.
