Georgetown MBA Announces New Admissions Essay and Video

“What matters to you?”

It’s a subject on the minds of the MBA Admissions team at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, and the new essay question on the 2016-17 application.

“We want to see how people can both give back to the program and grow personally and professionally through the Georgetown MBA,” said Shari Hubert, associate dean for MBA Admissions. “Applicants should be specific about how something from their past has personally affected them, providing a glimpse of what’s important to them and why.”

Hubert added that the responses will help the admissions team assess “generosity of spirit” and how students will contribute beyond the classroom to their fellow classmates or to the school. Given the school’s Jesuit values, it is important to assess the applicant’s character as part of this process in a more concrete way, she explained.

“The essay is purposefully vague, providing applicants with flexibility in how to answer, but it needs to be rooted in an example or situation that provides context for the answer they give.” Hubert said.

Also new this year, applicants will submit a one-minute video introducing themselves to their class. Hubert emphasized that the production value of the video is not important. Rather, her team is looking to find the voice of each individual applicant.

“This is a more dynamic way to assess candidates and get a true feel for their executive presence and personality,” she said. “We read their voice in the essay, but we want to hear and see them to get a sense of how they will ‘show up’ beyond the admissions process. Ultimately, we want to ensure their success in the classroom, in the job search, and beyond as an alum and steward of the Georgetown brand.”

Hear a recent interview with Shari Hubert on Accepted.com. Or request information or attend an admissions event.