Due to some conversations I’ve had, comments I’ve read on my post about business school consultants, and other things I’ve read on how to get into HBS, I’m curious to know what the Harvard Business School is really looking for in their students. Future Fortune 500 CEOs, young people, old people, diversity, entrepreneurs, leadership experience, leadership potential, leadership trajectory…I’ve heard a lot of things. But a lot of the things I hear sound oversimplified or seem to be only part of the picture. A lot of it sounds like conjecture. But there are some of you out there who have a better pulse on what HBS is looking for than others, and it’s you I want to hear from. That is, those of you who are HBS grads, business school consultants with a track record, or especially admissions staff. What I’d like to get from you is the real deal–what HBS is really looking for, what jumps out on a person’s application or essay that makes them say “Hey, this guy’s got potential, let’s take a closer look.”
As you comment, please explain your qualifications for answering this question so that those who read this can take that into account. While an HBS grad might have some insight, it doesn’t compare to comments from someone who was actually working in admissions, reviewing applications and reading essays. Feel free to post anonymously, but at least give us an idea of who you are and how you know what you know. And please, if you’re just someone who is speculating based on something you read or heard don’t comment.
Hey Josh, it’s Matt. I just wanted to clarify one thing from our lunch conversation the other day. While HBS is definitely geared toward producing CEOs for enterprise level companies, they are still very open to accepting students who may wish to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or the SMB space. Several of my friends who have gone through the HBS programs have pursued one of the latter two courses, so the big biz CEO bit is by no means exclusive.
But one thing I can say for certain is that that HBS is seeking leaders, people with a proven ability to lead people and provide thought leadership. So anything you can do to establish yourself as a leader of people and of thought movements is a good thing. HBS isn’t looking for followers. They want people who get things done. People who take initiative. People who are able to persuade others to follow their vision. In other words, they are looking for strong leaders.
As far as using admissions consultants, I would find one that can help you with all aspects of your application, including your essays, application strategy, etc. Do your research. Talk to people who have used them before AND been admitted to HBS. It’s always wise if you can find a consultant who has been on the actual HBS admissions committee for a number of years.
Good luck man!
Matt I really loved your comment. I think you nailed it right there, for me that sounds like the profile of some of the most influential HBS Phd’s and professors etc. etc.
I know I’m diverting slightly from the MBA agenda but that’s exactly the kind of spark that needs to be lit by an application.. thinking even further into the future
I am planning to setup my application around 5 to 7, maybe 7 is too many, but core themes such as thought leadership, vision, post MBA ground shaking imaginings of what I would do!!! hahha etc. and focus my entire application around these chosen building blocks as applicable to my entire existence, past , present and future!!!
I’m applying into the class of 2012 program and with the recession, the competition is probably ridiculous.
Good luck Josh I am planning to hang around here and if there’s any help or support I can provide feel free to drop me an email.
You are such an inspiration and I have no doubt that you will achieve your goal with the amount of determination and dedication that you are putting out.