Even though an MBA program is designed to teach you the ins and outs of the business world, the admissions committees, faculty, and administrators who run these programs still want their applicants to demonstrate some knowledge of the basic principles of business and accounting prior to entry. They also want to see evidence of motivation and dedication to study. What follows are some tips and examples of how to demonstrate these abilities.
Emphasize Relevant Work Experience
MBA admissions programs will want to see that you are aware of the way that various business models operate. As a result, applicants who can demonstrate some experience or involvement in sales, marketing, finance, accounting, or other fields complemented by MBA coursework will receive priority over those who exhibit none of this experience. If you have recently graduated from an undergraduate program and your work history is thin, it is also appropriate to list internships. See the example below for a model.
Include Appropriate Skills and Academic Honors
In addition to work experience, be sure to highlight any relevant awards or acquired skills that will signal to admissions directors that you will excel in a particular MBA program. For example, be sure to emphasize your initiative, motivation, competitive drive, and work ethic (as seen in the example below), all of which will demonstrate that you can handle the rigorous curriculum of the MBA program and that your performance will reflect well on the university.
Sample MBA Admission Resume
John T. Smith
1234 Smith Lane
San Diego, CA
305-555-7525
[email]
Objective: Dedicated individual with strong undergraduate credentials and experience in the business sector looks to expand knowledge and increase chances of future entrepreneurial success by completing an MBA program.
EDUCATION
B.S. in Economics, magna cum laude, Pennsylvania State University, 2012
WORK EXPERIENCE
Jones & Smith Sales Association, San Diego, CA
Marketing Assistant, 2012-Present
- Assisted marketing director in developing promotional materials
- Successfully increased sales by 10% as a result of new materials
- Made cold calls for outside sales team
Burns Marketing Firm, State College, PA
Sales & Marketing Intern, 2011-2012 - Developed Power Point presentations for sales teams
- Attended all sales and marketing meetings to learn the process of developing sales tactics
- Accompanied sales associates on marketing trips
Classic Supply Company, Chicago, IL
Seasonal Sales Associate, 2009-2011 - Assisted customers in purchase of items
- Helped customers close sales
- Processed sales transactions
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Power Point, and Excel
Experienced in use of financial and budgetary software, including Quicken & QuickBooks
Able to work independently and manage time efficiently
HONORS AND AWARDS
Awarded Academic Fellowship for Business Students, 2011
Named to Dean’s List, Pennsylvania State University, 2010-2011
Recipient of Merit Scholarship, 2009-2010
By highlighting your experience, existing skills, academic success, and dedication to your field of study, you can craft a resume that demonstrates you are a good fit for any MBA program. Along with your resume, you will also be asked to include letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and an official application and application fee, so be sure to set aside a significant amount of time to complete all of these requirements.
