Podcasts about gmat

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing upcoming MBA admissions deadlines. For this upcoming week, Imperial Business School, IESE and Dartmouth / Tuck have admissions deadlines; Duke / Fuqua is scheduled to have released its Early Action Round interview invites. Graham highlighted Clear Admit's upcoming webinar events.  Beginning this week, Clear Admit will host six webinar events focused on going inside of the MBA admissions process. These events will feature admissions professionals from 30 top MBA programs. After this series, Clear Admit will host its Real Humans webinar series, as well as its admissions series that focuses on specific regions of the United States. Signups for all these events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham highlighted two recently published MBA rankings, from Business Week and from LinkedIn. Both did include the top three programs in their top three (Stanford, Harvard and Wharton), but not in the same order. We also discussed Clear Admit's point of view on tiered rankings versus these ordinal rankings. Graham highlighted the recently published Georgetown / McDonough and UCLA / Anderson class profiles. Both programs saw a decline in applications and enrollees, while keeping quality metrics strong. Graham also noted a recently published admissions tip that focuses on polishing MBA admissions essays. Alex offered tips on how to do this, with the Ask Clear Admit bot.  We then discussed a recently published article that addresses the ROI of a top MBA, outside of short-term job opportunities. Clear Admit continues its Real Humans series which focuses on current students at top MBA programs. This week we profile MBA students from Cornell / Johnson. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries. This week's first MBA admissions candidate is a biologist working in agricultural regulation. They are considering a career pivot and are hoping the MBA will allow them to do that. This week's second MBA applicant is targeting next season. They have deep experience in cyber security and already have a strong GMAT score of 695. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

Last week we talked about "I'm not ready yet" as fear dressed up as logic. This week, Jessica and Kelly pull on that thread further to unpack the credential trap — the pattern of adding one more certification, one more year of experience, one more thing to point to before you'll let yourself begin. It looks like ambition and diligence from the outside, but underneath it is often a single question: do I have the right to be here? Kelly shares her own story of pursuing (and ultimately not needing) her MBA and her PMP certification, and Jessica opens up about the moments in 21 years of clinical practice where she's felt the pull toward "just one more" credential — including EMDR certification — even when she knew it wasn't what she actually needed. Together they explore the real difference between preparation and permission-seeking, why this pattern is so deeply tied to how women are socialized, and why the research shows this isn't always "just" imposter syndrome — for many women, and especially women of color, the extra proof they're gathering is a rational response to systems that really do demand more of them. What We Cover The credential trap as its own specific pattern — distinct from procrastination Kelly's story with her MBA, the GMAT, and working alongside colleagues with and without advanced degrees Kelly's PMP certification journey and what she learned about not needing the piece of paper Reshma Saujani's framing: girls are taught to be perfect, boys are taught to be brave A KPMG finding that 75% of female executives report experiencing imposter syndrome, often coping by adding more credentials Jessica on 21 years in clinical practice, the pull toward EMDR certification, and choosing brainspotting instead The real test: is this new knowledge you don't have, or is it a delay? And who are you imagining will finally give you permission? A Harvard Business Review perspective pushing back on "just fix your imposter syndrome" — for many women, especially women of color, the extra preparation is a rational response to real bias, not just a mindset issue Preparation vs. permission-seeking: preparation moves you toward something; permission-seeking keeps you at a safe distance Brighter Moves Jessica: Instead of asking "Am I qualified enough?" ask "Am I curious enough? Am I committed enough? Do I care about this enough?" Qualifications get you in the room — commitment keeps you there. Kelly: Audit one thing you're waiting to finish before you start something else. Ask honestly: is this genuinely necessary, or is it a sophisticated way to stay safe? You don't have to act on the answer — just answer it. This Week's Freebie

Happy Labor today to those tuning in who celebrate! In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the week ahead series that Clear Admit publishes, that reveals all the deadlines for the top MBA programs. This upcoming week, UPenn / Wharton, Harvard, Stanford, Columbia, Northwestern / Kellogg, Michigan / Ross, UVA / Darden, Georgetown / McDonough,  Berkeley / Haas, Notre Dame / Mendoza and Johns Hopkins / Carey all have admissions deadlines. Graham highlighted Clear Admit's upcoming "Inside the MBA Admissions Process" series.  Beginning September 22, Clear Admit will host six webinar events featuring admissions professionals from 30 top MBA programs. Signups for those events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham then mentioned a recently published admissions tip on how to show business schools your fit with their MBA program. Clear Admit continues its Adcom Q&A series. This week Graham notes a Q&A with Cornell / Johnson. Graham also highlighted several podcast Q&As that continue to be released, including a Q&A with UVA / Darden. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries: This week's first MBA admissions candidate is debating between full- and part-time programs. They have a 3.0 GPA and have not yet taken the GMAT or GRE. This week's second MBA applicant has a 3.8 GPA in computer science, and four years of experience. They also need to take a test, but we believe they can be a very strong candidate. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

Just about every top-ranked MBA program says they evaluate applicants “holistically” i.e. no single factor, whether GMAT score, GPA, work experience or background – can make or break an application. Top MBA programs almost like to brag about high GMAT scorers that didn't get in to prove this.As a former MBA admissions director, I know “holistic” can be confusing and vague. That's why I created a 15-point rubric to help you understand where and how you can improve your profile. My view is that top business schools evaluate applicants along 3 dimensions:Academic Aptitude – can you get through an intense, graduate level business program?Work Experience – can the program help you achieve your post-MBA career goals?Ambassadorial Potential – will your classmates, alumni, and professors be excited to have you as part of the tribe? Is the school confident that you'll represent the program well with employers recruiting and as an alumni?Every school has unique admissions criteria, but I believe they usually fall in one or more of these 3 buckets. For example, showing a track record of leadership – whether at school, work or in the community – would give more evidence of your ambassadorial potential and value-add to the school.So, when you're evaluating the competitiveness of your application, try using these big 3 buckets. Which ones are full of evidence that you can succeed and thrive? Which ones could use more support?TopicsWhat Does “Holistic” Mean? (0:00)How Can You Make Admissions Director's Job Easier (5:22)Academic Aptitude (8:40)Employability (10:47)Ambassadorial Potential (14:35)Show NotesDownload Touch MBA's 15-Point Admissions RubricPresident John F. Kennedy's Inauguration Speech (1961)Resources for MBA Applicants⁠⁠Get free school selection help at Touch MBA⁠⁠⁠⁠Get pre-assessed by top international MBA programs⁠⁠⁠Join our Admissions Edge Course & Community⁠⁠⁠Our favorite MBA application tools (after advising 4,000 applicants)⁠

Just about every top-ranked MBA program says they evaluate applicants “holistically” i.e. no single factor, whether GMAT score, GPA, work experience or background – can make or break an application. Top MBA programs almost like to brag about high GMAT scorers that didn't get in to prove this.As a former MBA admissions director, I know “holistic” can be confusing and vague. That's why I created a 15-point rubric to help you understand where and how you can improve your profile. My view is that top business schools evaluate applicants along 3 dimensions:Academic Aptitude – can you get through an intense, graduate level business program?Work Experience – can the program help you achieve your post-MBA career goals?Ambassadorial Potential – will your classmates, alumni, and professors be excited to have you as part of the tribe? Is the school confident that you'll represent the program well with employers recruiting and as an alumni?Every school has unique admissions criteria, but I believe they usually fall in one or more of these 3 buckets. For example, showing a track record of leadership – whether at school, work or in the community – would give more evidence of your ambassadorial potential and value-add to the school.So, when you're evaluating the competitiveness of your application, try using these big 3 buckets. Which ones are full of evidence that you can succeed and thrive? Which ones could use more support?TopicsWhat Does “Holistic” Mean? (0:00)How Can You Make Admissions Director's Job Easier (5:22)Academic Aptitude (8:40)Employability (10:47)Ambassadorial Potential (14:35)Show NotesDownload Touch MBA's 15-Point Admissions RubricPresident John F. Kennedy's Inauguration Speech (1961)Resources for MBA Applicants⁠⁠Get free school selection help at Touch MBA⁠⁠⁠⁠Get pre-assessed by top international MBA programs⁠⁠⁠Join our Admissions Edge Course & Community⁠⁠⁠Our favorite MBA application tools (after advising 4,000 applicants)⁠

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the beginning of the new application season. Cambridge / Judge is the first top MBA program with their Round 1 deadline, which was last week. This upcoming week, London Business School, Oxford / Said and Duke / Fuqua all have admissions deadlines. Graham highlighted Clear Admit's upcoming events. We plan to do a livestream event this Tuesday, to kick off the new admissions season. This event is for participants to ask any questions they have for their Round 1 strategy. Graham and Alex will be hosting, as usual. You can subscribe to Clear Admit's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@ClearAdmitMBA Later in September, Clear Admit will also host several more webinar events featuring admissions professionals from all the top MBA programs. Signups for those events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham highlighted a recently published deep-dive piece on Adcom's considerations regarding the use of AI in MBA admissions. Graham also noted admissions tips related to GMAT & GRE test waivers and video essays. Clear Admit also published a handy chart that highlights which top MBA programs allow for test waivers. Clear Admit continues its Adcom Q&A series. This week Graham notes a Q&A with Texas / McCombs. Graham also highlighted several podcast Q&As that continue to be released, including Q&As with Harvard, Fuqua, Booth and Stern. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries: This week's first MBA admissions candidate is planning to apply in 2028. They are a structural engineer and want to use the MBA to pivot to investment banking. This week's second MBA applicant is from India and has a master's in chemistry. They have a 645 GMAT score and we wonder if they should retake the test. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

What Really is Test Anxiety? Is Test Anxiety Always a Bad Thing? Treating Test-Taking Like a Sport Building an Effective Pre-Exam Routine Breaking Negative Thoughts Before the Test Two Ways to Manage Test Anxiety Building Awareness, Focus, and Mindfulness Developing Mental Skills Through Consistency Where to Begin Managing Test Anxiety

Practice tests are an essential part of GMAT prep—but are you using them the right way? In Week 5 of our Summer Prep Series, GMAC Zach is joined once again by GMAT expert Hailey Cusimano to explore how candidates can make the transition from learning GMAT concepts to performing under test-like conditions. They discuss why a practice test should be treated as data rather than a verdict on your readiness, when to start taking official practice exams, and how to practice pacing without burning through your limited supply of full-length tests. Hailey also breaks down some of the most common pacing mistakes—including obsessing over a two-minute-per-question benchmark, spending too much time on difficult questions, and unnecessarily double-checking questions you've already solved efficiently. Plus, Zach and Hailey dig into the mental side of the GMAT: how momentum can affect your performance, why trying to predict the scoring algorithm can work against you, and how deliberately introducing manageable stress into your practice can make test day feel more familiar. And if you're following the series, get a practice test ready: next week, Zach and Hailey will walk through how to actually review one. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Your practice test is data—not a verdict. A practice test isn't simply there to tell you whether you're "ready." It can reveal how you behave under pressure, where your pacing breaks down, what strategies survive under time constraints, and where your prep should go next. Don't wait until you feel 100% ready. Waiting for near-perfect accuracy before taking a practice exam can leave you "treading water." Once you've built a reasonable foundation and can learn constructively from your mistakes, practice tests themselves should become part of the learning process. Pacing does not mean spending two minutes on every question. Different questions deserve different amounts of time. Instead of constantly calculating your time per question, Hailey recommends thinking more broadly about high-value versus low-value time across the section. One difficult question can create a pacing snowball. Spending three or more minutes fighting with one problem may not just hurt you on that question—it can force you to rush several questions afterward. Recognizing sunk-cost thinking and knowing when additional time is no longer adding value are critical GMAT skills. Structure gives you something to fall back on under pressure. You can't eliminate every stressful moment from the GMAT. You can develop question-solving routines, pacing checkpoints, contingency plans, and even a consistent pre-test routine so your brain has something familiar to rely on when stress arrives. Stop trying to figure out how well you're doing during the exam. The apparent difficulty of the questions you see isn't a reliable way to judge your performance. Hailey has seen candidates mentally give up on sections they later discovered were among their strongest performances. Your job is the question in front of you—not reverse-engineering the scoring algorithm. Practice being imperfect. You can miss questions and still perform extremely well. Aiming to feel 100% confident about every answer can actually hurt performance if it causes you to overinvest time. Even strong candidates should have strategies for making a thoughtful, educated guess when necessary. Chapters: Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 02:54 Contextualizing practice test data 05:46 Balancing confidence and pacing in practice tests 09:07 The importance of review and reflection 12:14 The mental game: stress and momentum 14:56 Practical tips for consistent practice habits 18:08 Overcoming perfectionism and all-or-nothing mindset 21:07 Benchmarking and adjusting pacing strategies 23:56 The value of review and reflection 27:11 Understanding and managing the scoring algorithm 30:04 Preparing mentally for test day challenges 31:02 The importance of a structured routine 31:52 Handling the mental game and stress management 33:05 Avoiding all-or-nothing thinking in pacing 34:01 Using review to inform pacing adjustments 34:55 The role of contingency plans in test strategy 35:49 Common mistakes and how to correct them 36:49 The importance of resilience and grit 38:11 Final tips for test day readiness 38:51 Upcoming episode preview and closing remarks

Ready to learn the history, philosophy, and practice of an experienced professional in the test prep industry? MEET OUR GUEST Eric Rath is the founder and president of Rath Tutoring, where he's spent the last decade building a remote test-prep and academic tutoring practice. His career in test prep goes back nearly twenty years, with senior business and instruction roles at some of the field's best-known names — Applerouth, ArborBridge, and Revolution Prep — before he struck out on his own in 2016. A UC Berkeley graduate, Eric is a frequent speaker on testing, assessment, and education, presenting everywhere from individual high schools to admissions-industry organizations like NACAC and IECA. He works with students across the full range of exams — the SAT, ACT, and TOEFL; graduate tests like the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, and MCAT; and private high school entrance exams — and he's known for a calm, practical, jargon-free approach that takes the anxiety out of the process. Find Eric at info@rathtutoring.com. ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the show page. ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of Chariot Learning and founder of TestBright, Roots2Words, and College Eagle. Amy Seeley is the president of Seeley Test Pros and LEAP. If you're interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, get in touch through our contact page.  

Data Insights gives you a lot to look at, but that doesn't mean you need to understand all of it. In the latest installment of our GMAT Summer Prep Series, GMAC Zach and Hailey Cusimano of Menlo Coaching break down how to approach one of the GMAT's most distinctive sections without getting lost in the data. They explore why timing can be particularly challenging in Data Insights, how to stay focused on the task in front of you, why unfamiliar subject matter shouldn't scare you, and how having a clear strategy for each question type can make the section feel much more manageable. Plus, Zach puts his own Data Sufficiency skills to the test as Hailey demonstrates how slowing down before you start solving can actually help you work more efficiently. Whether Data Insights is your favorite section or the one you're still trying to figure out, this episode will help you build a smarter approach to the questions in front of you. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Data Insights is a resource-management test as much as a reasoning test. A major challenge is recognizing when a question is consuming too much time and deciding whether the next step is actually worth the investment. You do not need to understand everything you're shown. Start with the task, then seek out the information needed to answer it. Trying to fully absorb every graph, tab, or paragraph upfront can waste valuable time. The bigger danger is often assuming information, not overlooking it. When you catch yourself filling in a gap with outside knowledge or what "seems" true, go back to the information provided and find support you can actually defend. If a Graphics Interpretation question feels like an eye test, you may be interpreting the graph incorrectly. Differences should be defensible from the data rather than dependent on extremely precise visual estimation. On Data Sufficiency, define what would make the information sufficient before you start calculating. Especially on yes/no questions, you do not need one unique scenario—you need to know whether the answer can be determined definitively. You do not have to evaluate Data Sufficiency statements in order. Starting with the statement that gives you the clearest path can make the problem easier and reduce unnecessary work. Doing more practice questions is not necessarily the path to improvement. The useful part of review is identifying exactly where your reasoning broke down and what you need to do differently when you encounter a similar challenge again. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Data Insights and Episode Overview 02:14 GMAT Super Score and Its Impact on Data Insights 03:24 Integrating Quantitative and Verbal Skills in Data Insights 04:47 Common Challenges: Timing and Data Overload 07:08 Building Structure and Task Orientation 09:00 Handling Distractions and Staying Focused 10:01 Practicing Discipline and Resource Management 12:21 Avoiding Assumptions and Logical Leaps 14:14 Understanding the Open Book Nature of Data Insights 16:03 Question Type Specific Strategies 19:08 Using Graphics Interpretation Effectively 29:16 Introduction to Data Sufficiency Questions 30:15 Evaluating Data Sufficiency Statements Independently 32:38 Common Mistakes in Data Sufficiency 35:15 Importance of Inventory Management and Confidence 40:05 Strategies for Success and Self-Reflection 50:14 Psychology of Test-Taking and Next Steps

Attention GRE and GMAT test-takers! Did you know there are certain words in a given reading passage that can help you quickly figure out the correct MBA admissions test answers? Well, there are, and we call them "indicator words." Indicator words are among the most powerful tools for solving several types of verbal questions on both the GMAT and the GRE. In this episode, SBC's Director of MBA Test Prep, Anthony Ritz, walks through what indicator words are, what they do, and how they are used to solve problems. The episode concludes with a full example question, in which Stacy Blackman herself applies these lessons to produce the correct answer using only two words from the argument. If you prefer to watch this episode (as screens are shown with test questions), you can find it on our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/stacyblackmanconsulting Learn more about SBC's MBA Test Prep services here: https://www.stacyblackman.com/testprep/ The example question discussed during the episode is: Historian: Newton developed mathematical concepts and techniques that are fundamental to modern calculus. Leibniz developed closely analogous concepts and techniques. It has traditionally been thought that these discoveries were independent. Researchers have, however, recently discovered notes of Leibniz's that discuss one of Newton's books on mathematics. Several scholars have argued that since the book includes a presentation of Newton's calculus concepts and techniques, and since the notes were written before Leibniz' own development of calculus concepts and techniques, it is virtually certain that the traditional view is false. A more cautious conclusion than this is called for, however. Leibniz' notes are limited to early sections of Newton's book, sections that precede the ones in which Newton's calculus concepts and techniques are presented. In the historian's reasoning, the two portions in boldface play which of the following roles? (A) The first provides evidence in support of the overall position that the historian defends; the second is evidence that has been used to support an opposing position. (B) The first provides evidence in support of the overall position that the historian defends; the second is that position. (C) The first provides evidence in support of an intermediate conclusion that is drawn to provide support for the overall position that the historian defends; the second provides evidence against that intermediate conclusion. (D) The first is evidence that has been used to support a conclusion that the historian criticizes; the second is evidence offered in support of the historian's own position. (E) The first is evidence that has been used to support a conclusion that the historian criticizes; the second is further information that substantiates that evidence.

Important Medical and Informational Disclaimer Effects of Adderall and Ritalin Addressing Brain Fog and Deficiencies Efficacy of Omega-Three Supplements Balancing Alertness with Caffeine Intake Hidden Risks of Taurine Drinks Navigating Over-the-Counter Nootropic Blends The Final Verdict on Supplements Managing Anxiety with Beta Blockers Identifying and Evaluating Cognitive Struggles Understanding Standardized Testing Accommodations

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the upcoming events Clear Admit is hosting. We plan to do a livestream event on Tuesday, September 1, ahead of the Round 1 deadlines. This event is for participants to ask any questions they have for their Round 1 strategy. Graham and Alex will be hosting, as usual. We hope to roll out these livestream events on a monthly schedule. Later in September, Clear Admit will also host several more webinar events featuring admissions professionals from the top MBA programs. Signups for those events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Clear Admit continues its Adcom Q&A series. This week Graham notes two Adcom Q&As, from emlyon and Imperial Business School. Graham also highlighted several podcast Q&As that are being released, regularly. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries: This week's first MBA admissions candidate is from Pakistan and works in the Philippines. They have 11 years of experience and a 3.94 GPA. This week's second MBA applicant has a 725 GMAT and 3.91 GPA. They are from South Asia and have work experience with start-ups. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Dr. Rodrigo Tello, MBA Program Manager at Oklahoma State University and a researcher studying chronobiology and circadian rhythms in organizational management. Rodrigo explains how our chronotypes—whether we naturally perform better earlier or later in the day—can affect focus, decision-making, learning, and even how managers respond to employee ideas. He also shares what his research has found about the "synchrony effect": what can happen when demanding tasks line up with the time of day your brain is naturally at its best. Then Zach and Rodrigo bring the science back to the GMAT. They discuss how to identify your own patterns, experiment with different study times, schedule prep around your strongest hours when possible, and think strategically about when to take the exam. As Rodrigo puts it: before studying for the GMAT, study yourself. They also explore what chronobiology could mean for business school, teamwork, leadership, and the way we design the modern workplace. About our guest: Dr. Rodrigo Tello is a Senior Program Manager, educator, and researcher with more than 14 years of experience in program management, including seven years in graduate business education (MBA). He holds three master's degrees, including a Master's in Health and Human Performance, and is a Mayo Clinic Certified Health and Wellness Coach. His research focuses on the intersection of chronobiology, leadership, and management, exploring how biological rhythms influence managerial behavior and decision-making. Passionate about health, wellness, and longevity, Rodrigo is particularly interested in connecting human performance and well-being with leadership and organizational performance. Outside of work and research, he enjoys traveling, biking, lifting, and staying active. Helpful resources: Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ): https://tinyurl.com/3ud6558a The Power of When by Dr. Michael Breus: https://a.co/d/0flfAD2b What's Your Chrontotype? Quiz: https://tinyurl.com/47bd3nav Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to timing and biological clocks 01:09 Rodrigo's journey into wellness and chronobiology 04:39 The book The Power of When and its impact 07:03 Research on managers' chronotypes and responsiveness 08:53 Timing and decision-making in organizations 11:37 Practical applications beyond management 14:23 Personal experiences with study timing and energy levels 20:00 Implications for high-stakes testing like the GMAT 27:25 Societal and organizational shifts towards flexible timing 34:20 Applying chronobiology to MBA and professional development 41:17 Navigating chronobiology in professional settings 45:31 Future research and potential impacts

Knowing how to read doesn't automatically mean you know how to approach GMAT Verbal. In the latest episode of our summer GMAT prep series, GMAC Zach and GMAT instructor Hailey Cusimano dig into Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning—and some of the habits that can make these questions harder than they need to be. They explore why GMAT Verbal is more objective than it may seem, how assumptions and outside knowledge can lead you toward tempting wrong answers, why reading faster isn't necessarily the answer to pacing problems, and how process of elimination can help you make more defensible decisions. Then Zach puts the strategies to the test with challenging Critical Reasoning questions—and falls into a few traps along the way. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Verbal is objective. You're not choosing the answer you can make the best case for; four answers are ultimately flawed for a reason. Read for structure, not memorization. Look for changes in direction, perspective, comparisons, and why each paragraph exists. Don't bring too much outside knowledge with you. Your assumptions and familiarity with a topic can sometimes make a question harder rather than easier. Know your job before evaluating the answers. An assumption, strengthener, inference, and other question types demand different things. Make your eliminations defensible. "I don't like this answer" isn't enough; you should be able to articulate why it fails the task. Review why you got stuck—not just what you got wrong. Hailey's final advice is to look for recurring resistance points in your decision-making rather than simply drilling more questions of the same type.

Student #1: 255 to 655 Student #2: 350 to 710 Student #3: 535 to 635 (Q69 to Q82) Student #4: 505 to 705 Student #5, 530 to 740 Student #6, 1st Percentile to 90th Percentile in Verbal

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the upcoming events Clear Admit is hosting. We plan to do a livestream event on Tuesday, September 1, ahead of the Round 1 deadlines. This event is for participants to ask any questions they have for their Round 1 strategy. Graham and Alex will be hosting, as usual. You can subscribe to Clear Admit's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@ClearAdmitMBA Later in September, Clear Admit will also host several more webinar events featuring admissions professionals from all the top MBA programs. Signups for those events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham highlighted a recently published resource that covers all the 2026 Early and Round 1 deadlines for top MBA programs. On September 9, several programs, including Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, and Columbia have their first-round deadlines. Clear Admit continues its Adcom Q&A series. This week Graham notes a Q&A with Chicago / Booth. Graham also highlighted several podcast Q&As that are being released, regularly. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries. This week's first MBA admissions candidate is from India and has a 332 GRE score. They are concerned that they have not worked for more traditional big brand businesses. This week's second MBA applicant has a liberal arts degree and makes no mention of a standardized test. We really encourage them to take the GMAT or GRE. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

GMAT Quant questions can look intimidating—but the hardest part is not always the math. In week two of our six-week GMAT study series, GMAC Zach is joined once again by Hailey Cusimano of Menlo Coaching for a hands-on Quantitative Reasoning session. Together, they work through three challenging problems and explore what actually separates an efficient GMAT solution from a long, calculation-heavy one. You'll learn why rushing into the first available approach can cost you time, how to identify the question's true ask, and how techniques such as number picking, visual organization, and proportional reasoning can reveal a much simpler path forward. Along the way, Hailey explains how to: Front-load your analysis so you can execute more efficiently Identify and pursue the path of least resistance Recognize the cues intentionally built into a question Choose useful numbers when variables make a problem difficult to visualize Avoid doing the right math for the wrong question Turn "careless mistakes" into specific opportunities for improvement Whether Quant is your biggest concern or you simply want to become a more flexible problem-solver, this episode will help you approach difficult questions with greater clarity, confidence, and control. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Analyze before you calculate. A small investment of time at the beginning can prevent you from spending several minutes on an approach that will not pay off. Look for the path of least resistance. The first method that comes to mind is not necessarily the most efficient one. Treat every detail as intentional. A word such as "remaining," "integer," or "non-negative" may completely change how the question should be interpreted. Make abstract questions tangible. When a problem uses percentages and variables, choosing useful numbers can make the underlying relationship easier to see. Answer the question that was actually asked. Correct calculations can still lead to a wrong answer when you use the wrong comparison or percentage base. Investigate so-called careless mistakes. Errors often begin with how the problem was interpreted or organized—not with the final arithmetic. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to GMAT quant challenges and guest Haley Cusimano 01:02 The importance of mindset and environment in tackling quant questions 02:29 Common misconceptions about approaching GMAT quant 03:43 The GMAT as an analysis of thinking, not just content knowledge 05:00 Bad habits from content-based exam thinking 06:23 The value of slow analysis and question deconstruction 07:34 Course correction strategies for difficult questions 09:12 Frontloading analysis and identifying the path of least resistance 10:54 Using number sense and ratios to simplify problems 12:27 The importance of understanding question cues and details 15:50 Visual organization of complex data and question setup 17:23 Handling challenging percent questions with strategic number picking 20:14 Dealing with traps and misconceptions in percent problems 24:39 Leveraging divisibility and number properties for quick calculations 28:23 Setting up for success: avoiding careless errors 34:52 Approaches to tackling difficult GMAT questions efficiently 37:32 Visualizing data with tables and diagrams for complex problems 44:46 Using number sense to simplify and verify answers 50:54 Summary and key takeaways for effective GMAT quant prep

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the upcoming events Clear Admit is hosting. We plan to do a livestream event on Tuesday, September 1, ahead of the Round 1 deadlines. This event is for participants to ask any questions they have for their Round 1 strategy. Graham and Alex will be hosting, as usual. We hope to roll out these livestream events on a monthly schedule. Later in September, Clear Admit will also host several more webinar events featuring admissions professionals from the top MBA programs. Signups for those events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham highlighted a recently published article that focuses on Chicago / Booth's new research center for supply chain and applied technologies. Graham also noted an admissions tip detailing how to identify and prepare recommenders for the MBA admissions process. Clear Admit continues its Adcom Q&A series. This week Graham notes a written and a podcast Q&A from Berkeley / Haas. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries: This week's first MBA admissions candidate has a 3.73 GPA and 675 GMAT. They have what appears to be strong work experience and some decent entrepreneurial experience. This week's second MBA applicant is seeking to pivot away from the Oil and Gas sector. They are from Pakistan and have more than 11 years of experience. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

Summer can be a great time to prepare for the GMAT...but only if you have a plan! In the first installment of our summer GMAT study series, GMAC Zach is joined by Hailey Cusimano, Director of Tutoring at Menlo Coaching, to discuss how candidates can build a study timeline that is structured, realistic, and flexible. Hailey explains why GMAT preparation should generally move through two phases: first developing the necessary foundations and strategies, and then practicing under increasingly realistic test conditions. She also shares why completing more questions does not automatically lead to a higher score, how to use an error log effectively, and what candidates should look for when reviewing their performance. The conversation also covers test readiness, practice-exam timing, managing test-day stress, and why even strong test takers should leave room in their schedules for a possible retake. Whether you are beginning your GMAT journey or trying to regain momentum, this series will help you build a more thoughtful and productive approach to your preparation. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register 5 Traits of Successful GMAT Test Takers: https://tinyurl.com/insidethegmat Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: Build a clear preparation timeline before diving into practice questions. Divide your study plan into two broad phases: foundations and strategy first, followed by timed and test-like practice. Avoid treating practice exams as the structure of your entire study plan. Focus on understanding why you struggled with a question—not simply what type of question you missed. Use an error log to identify recurring behaviors, habits, and decision-making patterns. Prioritize the quality of your review over the number of questions you complete. Look for consistency across practice exams rather than relying on one strong performance. Practice handling realistic distractions and pressure before test day. Maintain balance, flexibility, and resilience throughout the preparation process. Leave enough time in your schedule to retake the GMAT if needed. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to GMAT summer study series 02:30 Why summer is ideal for GMAT prep 05:02 Initial steps for beginning GMAT prep 09:20 Structuring your study timeline 12:55 Content review vs. test simulation 17:20 Benchmarking progress and understanding resistance 22:41 Traits of successful GMAT test takers 27:16 Balancing preparation and well-being 33:50 Emulating test stressors effectively 37:34 The importance of retesting and iteration 40:15 Actionable steps for starting your prep

In this replay of one of our most popular episodes, Anthony Ritz, Stacy Blackman Consulting's Director of Test Prep -- who's been a GMAT and GRE tutor for more than two decades -- shares a range of specific suggestions, tips and proven test-prep strategies for the GRE's Vocabulary section. Check out Stacy Blackman Consultings MBA Test Prep services here.

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the upcoming events Clear Admit is hosting. The MBA Essay Workshop series continues this week, on Tuesday and Wednesday, July 28th and 29th. These events bring together an increasing number of top MBA programs to discuss both their written essay prompts as well as their video essays. Signups for all events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham highlighted a new MBA program from MIT / Sloan, which is offered in the evenings, but which has all the characteristics of a full-time MBA offering. Graham also noted a partnership story with Dartmouth / Tuck that illustrates how candidates can use and evaluate MBA programs' career reports. Graham then noted a recently published MBA admissions tip, focused on the importance and design of an MBA resume. Clear Admit continues its Adcom Q&A series. This week Graham notes a written Q&A from NYU / Stern and a podcast Q&A with Columbia. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries: This week's first MBA admissions candidate is from India with eight years of work experience. They have not yet taken the GMAT or GRE test, and we encourage them to target the first rounds. This week's second MBA applicant is currently still completing their undergraduate studies and is targeting deferred admissions opportunities at the top MBA programs. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

This episode originally published in 2025, but since a new round of GMAC Tours just started up again, I want to make sure new listeners have a chance to learn all about these one-of-a-kind, free events.  Enjoy! - GMAC Zach Thinking about business school? Don't go it alone. In this episode, we're hitting the road as we explore GMAC Tours, the global events that bring top business schools and aspiring students together under one roof. Host Zach is joined by Maggie Cooley, Director of Events and Marketing for GMAC Tours, to unpack why these MBA & Masters Tour events are more than just information sessions. They're networking goldmines, resume-boosting bootcamps, and overall application game-changers. You'll hear what really happens at a Tour event, how to make a lasting impression, and why attending one could help you discover your best-fit program (especially one you've never considered before). Whether you're years away from applying or finalizing your target school list, this episode will help you make the most of one of the most impactful tools on your business school journey. Find a Tour near you: https://www.mba.com/connect-with-schools/gmac-tours/events-calendar Key Takeaways 1. GMAC Tours are free, curated events designed for every stage of the b-school journey. Whether you're exploring your options or ready to apply, there's value for everyone—from keynotes and meetups to resume clinics and GMAT info sessions. 2. The biggest asset? Face time with admissions reps. Attendees meet directly with decision-makers from top global business schools, building authentic relationships that can strengthen applications and inform school selection. 3. Thoughtful preparation goes a long way. Doing research ahead of time, preparing smart questions, and showing genuine curiosity helps you stand out, both in scheduled meetups and casual booth chats. 4. Be open to discovering new schools. 80% of attendees consider a new program they hadn't previously thought about. Don't just target the usual suspects—use the event to explore your full range of options. 5. Your application can benefit directly. From resume feedback to application tips and admissions insights, the information (and impression) you gain at a Tour event can translate into a stronger, more personalized application. Chapters 01:12 - What is a Tour Event? 03:25 - Who Should Attend? 05:24 - Overview of Activities 06:55 - About School Meet-Ups 10:04 - About Resume Review Clinics 11:20 - About B-School Talks 12:01 - About the GMAT Info Session 13:16 - Planning Your Schedule 14:52 - Benefits of Attending 16:57 - Using the Event to Strengthen Your Application 17:56 - Success Stories 21:07 - Tips for Attending 23:06 - Making a Great Impression at Networking Events 25:07 - Common Mistakes to Avoid 28:42 - Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the upcoming events Clear Admit is hosting. The MBA Essay Workshop series begins this week, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and continues Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. These events will bring together an increasing number of the top MBA programs to discuss both their written essay prompts as well as their video essays. Signups for all events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham highlighted two admissions tips, published by Clear Admit, this week. The first focuses on how to make the most of a campus visit. The second explores identifying advocates, students, alumni and faculty, that can help provide anecdotes to candidates' applications. Clear Admit continues its Adcom Q&A series. This week Graham notes Q&As from London Business School, Florida / Warrington and Toronto / Rotman. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected three ApplyWire entries. This week's first MBA admissions candidate is from Brazil and is a sponsored candidate with plans to return to BCG. This week's second MBA applicant is from Mexico and has an EA score of 154. We encourage them to explore taking the GRE test. The final candidate this week is from India. They have an outstanding profile, but their GMAT score is 645. We are hoping they can retake the test, while still applying in Round 1. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

GMAT Superscore is coming, and it could change how candidates think about retesting, performance anxiety, and an imperfect test day. In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Charles Bibilos, founder of GMAT Ninja, to explain what GMAT Superscore means in practice. Charles breaks down how a superscore combines your strongest Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights section scores across multiple eligible exam attempts. He also explains which candidates are most likely to benefit, why an uneven test day no longer needs to feel catastrophic, and how business schools may interpret a candidate's testing history. They also discuss some of the early misconceptions surrounding GMAT Superscore—including the idea that candidates should study for one section at a time or repeatedly take the exam in an attempt to game the system. You'll learn: How GMAT Superscore is calculated When a superscore may differ meaningfully from your best single-attempt score Why candidates should still prepare for all three sections How superscoring may help candidates manage test-day anxiety Why score improvement and multiple attempts are not viewed negatively by schools How financial access and testing context may affect the conversation What questions remain about how schools will report and use superscores Charles's three biggest pieces of advice for candidates The biggest takeaway: prepare to perform your best across the entire exam—but remember that one difficult section or one bad stretch of questions does not have to erase everything you accomplished that day.

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we kicked off the show by celebrating the 500th episode of this podcast series, which began in March 2018. Through the series we have profiled more than 1,000 MBA candidates, and the series has received over 400,000 listens. For upcoming events, Clear Admit is hosting a special webinar event for international students, scheduled for this Wednesday, July 16, at 10AM Central European time. This webinar explores the value of a U.S.-based MBA for international students, as well as the logistics of moving to the United States. The Clear Admit's MBA Essay Workshop series is also scheduled for July 21, 22 and 23, and July 28 and 29. These events will bring together an increasing number of the top MBA programs to discuss both their written essay prompts as well as their video essays. Signups for all events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham highlighted a new £25 million gift received by London Business School, which will be used to help bolster their scholarship offerings. Graham also discussed three articles Clear Admit published last week, all focused on better understanding the value of the MBA. Clear Admit continues its Adcom Q&A series. This week Graham noted Q&As from Duke / Fuqua and IESE. Finally, Graham concluded the Real Humans Alumni series. This week focuses on an alumnus from London Business School, working at Bain. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries. This week's first MBA admissions candidate is from South America and has a 332 GRE score. They appear to have strong family-business experience. We hope there is clarity around their post-MBA goals. This week's second MBA applicant is from India and is a chemical engineer. They have a 665 GMAT score. We wonder if there is an advantage to retaking the test. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

We're often asked: "This is my GMAT/GRE score and this is the score I want—how many hours of tutoring do I need?" Our honest answer: before we can recommend a plan, we need to review one of your recent practice tests alongside you. This deep-dive analysis allows us to pinpoint strengths, weaknesses, and the most efficient path to your goal. Enter Stacy Blackman Consulting's Test Review package. This episode not only covers what that service includes, but also shares priceless MBA test-prep insight from Stacy Blackman herself and SBC's test prep expert, Anthony Ritz.

In this episode, we sit down with Lily Oh, an investor whose career has taken her from Goldman Sachs in Hong Kong to CVC Capital's Asia tech team, HarbourVest in Singapore, and now Harvard Business School. We discuss the biggest investment opportunities across Asia, how AI is reshaping private equity, and what differentiates markets like Korea, Japan, Singapore, and India. She also shares insights from evaluating deals alongside some of the world's leading private equity firms and offers career advice for students interested in private equity. Whether you're interested in global investing, tech, or the future of AI, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Want help with your MBA applications? ⁠⁠Book an MBA Application Strategy Call.⁠ If you're new here, my name is Jahlen Brown. I'm a Harvard Business School student and former private equity analyst. I spent four years working in the industry, closed over $1 billion in transactions, and worked 80-hour weeks while building my MBA applications. Today, I create content to help ambitious professionals break into elite careers, earn admission to top business schools, and create opportunities they never thought possible. How I got here... 20: Committed to breaking into private equity and became the first person in my family to work in finance21 yrs old: Finally broke into private equity and started my first internship at a real estate fund. Became involved with Sponsors for Educational Opportunity (SEO), helping underrepresented students break into competitive careers22 yrs old: Graduated Rutgers University Summa Cum Laude and landed three private equity job offers. Began my career in acquisitions in NYC 23 yrs old: Became the protégé of Joe Plumeri II, former CEO of Citibank, Willis Group, and Primerica24 yrs old: Private equity fund consolidated and learned I was getting shoved out. Experienced my first major setback and began searching for new opportunities25 yrs old: Started a new private equity role, signed my first M&A deal, and decided I wanted to create even bigger opportunities for myself. I began preparing for business school while working 80-hour weeks26 ys old: Accepted into 11 business schools, includingHarvard, Wharton, Columbia, Booth, and Dartmouth26 ys old: Earned approximately $910,000 in scholarships, including full-tuition scholarships to Cornell and Yale26 ys old: Became the first person in my family to attend anIvy League institution26 ys old: Achieved all of this despite having a low GMAT score while working 80-hour weeks Today: I'm attending Harvard Business School and documenting everything I learn about admissions, recruiting, entrepreneurship, investing, and career growth. I grew up in a lower-class family, attended community college, transferred to Rutgers, worked my way into private equity, and eventually earned admission to the best business schools in the world. I was never the smartest applicant I just refused to quit after I got knocked down If you stick to your goals, you can do far more than you think To everyone chasing a bigger future: Keep betting on yourself Keep moving Never quit JahlenFollow Jahlen's other platforms: ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠LinkedIn

How does GMAT's new ‘Superscore' change things for b-school applicants? 

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the current state of the MBA admissions season. While activity for this season is winding down, HBS and Chicago / Booth are scheduled to release their deferred admissions decisions, this upcoming week. We do still anticipate a little more waitlist movement in the weeks ahead. Graham noted that Clear Admit is planning its MBA Essay Workshop events series that is scheduled for July 21 and 22, and July 28 and 29. These events will bring together the majority of the top MBA programs to discuss both their written essay prompts as well as their video essays. Clear Admit is also hosting a special webinar event for international students, scheduled for July 16. This webinar will explore the value of a U.S. based MBA for international students, as well as the logistics of moving to the United States. Signups for all events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham highlighted three MBA news stories from this past week. UNC / Kenan Flagler opened a new building for its business school. Emory / Goizueta has installed a new dean. GMAC is rolling out a mechanism which allows applicants to share a test score that combines their best efforts on the different sections of the test, from multiple tests. Graham also shared two admissions tips that Clear Admit recently published. The first focuses on the importance of the b-school campus environment, when considering target programs. The second details how to address employment gaps. Clear Admit has begun its Adcom Q&A series for this upcoming season. This week Graham noted Q&As from Emory / Goizueta, ASU / Carey and CIEBS. Finally, Graham continued with the Real Humans Alumni series. This week focuses on three alumni: Tuck / Goldman Sachs, Yale / Bain and IMD / Amazon. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries and one DecisionWire entry. This week's first MBA admissions candidate is from Brazil and wants to pivot from Big 4 to MBB consulting. They still need to take the GMAT. This week's second MBA applicant is from India and has a 334 GRE score. They have military experience. They need to further develop their post MBA goals. This week's final MBA candidate is deciding between Darden, Tuck and Yale. They are targeting MBB consulting. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

Paying for business school can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to. In this episode of Inside the GMAT, Zach sits down with Allie Danziger, Chief Marketing Officer at Ascent Funding, to discuss one of the biggest concerns facing prospective students: how to finance graduate management education. Together, they explore why cost remains a major barrier for candidates, common misconceptions about loans and scholarships, strategies for building a realistic financial plan, and ways students can evaluate the long-term return on investment of their degree. Whether you're just beginning to research programs or preparing to enroll this fall, this conversation offers practical guidance to help you approach funding decisions with greater confidence, including: Why financing feels overwhelming for so many candidates The difference between scholarships, federal loans, and private loans How to calculate your true cost of attendance Common funding mistakes students make Ways AI can help students plan financially Why starting early matters How Ascent Funding supports students beyond financing About our guest: Allie Danziger is Chief Marketing Officer at Ascent Funding, where she leads marketing, growth, and customer experience initiatives focused on helping students and families access education financing with confidence. A serial entrepreneur and business builder, Allie has founded, scaled, and successfully exited two companies. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about creating innovative solutions that help individuals achieve their educational and professional goals. In 2020, she founded Ampersand, a workforce development platform designed to help early-career professionals build career-ready skills and connect education to employment outcomes. Ampersand was acquired by Ascent Funding in 2023. Prior to Ampersand, Allie founded and led Integrate Agency, one of Texas's leading marketing and public relations firms, serving more than 600 organizations and growing a team of over 250 professionals. Today, Allie brings a unique perspective at the intersection of education, career readiness, marketing, and technology, helping organizations create meaningful pathways from education to long-term success. Helpful Resources: Check your rates with Ascent: https://partners.ascentfunding.com/gmac Apply for the GMAC scholarship: https://www.ascentfunding.com/scholarships Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Financing Education 01:39 Understanding the Barriers to Financing 06:10 Navigating the Cost of Attendance 11:16 Funding Options Explained 15:32 Common Misconceptions in Student Financing 18:14 Timing Your Financial Decisions 21:40 Ascent Funding's Unique Approach 25:03 Collaboration with GMAC 26:40 Final Thoughts and Action Steps

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the current state of the MBA admissions season. We are continuing to see a few MBA programs release their final decisions, and candidates reporting their admissions from waitlists. We do still anticipate some more waitlist movement in the weeks ahead. Graham noted that Clear Admit is planning its MBA Essay Workshop events series that is scheduled for July 21 and 22, and July 28 and 29. These events will bring together the majority of the top MBA programs to discuss both their written essay prompts as well as their video essays. Early signups are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham noted his presence in Philadelphia this week (the week prior to the airing of the show) as he prepares to present a workshop at the annual GMAC conference. Graham also highlighted a Fridays from the Frontline featuring a student from LBS who spent a week in Austin Texas, as part of LBS's global experience program. Clear Admit also featured a story of two students at Johns Hopkins / Carey, who created a startup at the intersection of health care and AI. Finally, Graham highlighted the return of the Weekly Refresh series which updates admissions candidates on the latest admissions deadlines and essay topics from all the top MBA programs. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries and one DecisionWire entry. This week's first MBA admissions candidate already has an MBA from India. They are an engineering undergraduate who has worked in the insurance industry. This week's second MBA applicant is from Bangladesh and works in corporate banking. They have a 655 GMAT score. This week's final MBA candidate is deciding between Booth and Fuqua. They want to transition into consulting. This episode was recorded in Philadelphia, PA and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

Jessica talks with Chris Lele, an AI educator, learning strategist, writer, musician, and lifelong collector of difficult skills. He spent 20 years in test prep, creating thousands of SAT, GRE, and GMAT questions, publishing a bestselling vocabulary book, and reaching millions of students through YouTube. Today, he teaches professionals how to use generative AI without losing their originality, judgment, or voice. Chris is also a classical pianist, composer, Toastmasters speech competitor, fitness enthusiast, and occasional restaurant and bar performer. Whether teaching AI, playing Chopin, writing speeches, or explaining a brutal math problem, Chris is drawn to the art of making complexity come alive.Follow Chris:IG: @chris_on_the_keysYouTube: Ab-peggiosSpotify: The Tide BeneathApple Music: The Tide Beneath~About The Ampersand Manifesto:What happens when you refuse to choose just one path? On The Ampersand Manifesto, host Jessica Wan sits down with “the most interesting people at the dinner party” – those who have made their mark in two or more seemingly different worlds. Through candid conversations, we explore what it takes to navigate multiple callings, find the connection points between them, and redefine success on our own terms. Together, we're co-creating The Ampersand Manifesto: principles for leading a multi-passionate life.~About your host, Jessica Wan:Executive Coach | Classical Singer | Former Marketing Leader & Tech ExecutiveJessica helps founders and leaders make the invisible visible. With 20+ years of experience scaling brands like Apple, Smule, and the San Francisco Opera, and as an ICF-certified executive coach, she provides the clarity and strategy needed to lead bravely and find fulfillment in a multi-passionate life.Work with Jessica: Book a Free Intro CallJoin The Cohort: An Ampersand Community for Dual-Career ProfessionalsFollow the Journey: @ampersandmanifestoConnect: Jessica's LinkedInListen: Singing Excerpts~CreditsCo-produced and hosted by ⁠Jessica Wan⁠Co-produced, edited, sound design, and original music by ⁠Carlos Schmitt

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the current state of the MBA admissions season. We are continuing to see MBA programs release their final decisions. This upcoming week, USC / Marshall, CMU / Tepper, London Business School, Arizona / Carey, Georgia / Terry and Georgia Tech / Scheller are releasing final decisions. Graham highlighted a Fridays from the Frontline feature from a Stern student discussing their super experience with Stern's Endless Frontier Labs program. This was then followed by a deep-dive career reports piece focused on the consulting industry for MBA graduates. Graham also noted a new admissions tip which focuses on classes that might be worth considering before starting an MBA. Graham continued with the Real Humans Alumni series. This week focuses on three alumni: McCombs / Pepsi, IESE / Accenture and Owen / Bain. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries and one DecisionWire entry. This week's first MBA admissions candidate is from India, and works at Bain.  They also have links to family firm focused on pharmaceuticals. They have a 337 GRE score. This week's second MBA applicant is a veteran who has a 715 GMAT score and a 3.76 GPA from an Ivy League university. This week's final MBA candidate is deciding between McDonough and Anderson. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

"Nothing is better than the real thing. Official GMAT questions are the gold standard for getting ready for the test." The GMAT Official Guide 2026–2027 is here, and that means new official questions, updated online practice tools, and fresh ways to prepare for test day. In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach is joined once again by Stacey Koprince of Manhattan Prep to break down what's new in this year's Official Guide collection and how candidates should actually use it. They discuss why official GMAT questions are so valuable, how to balance official prep with third-party learning resources, and why reviewing your practice questions is just as important as answering them. Zach and Stacey also cover common prep mistakes, including burning through too many questions too quickly, studying one question type in isolation, and skipping review on questions you got right. Plus, Stacey shares practical advice for using the Official Guide, section-specific review books, online question banks, and official practice exams more strategically throughout your prep. Whether you're just starting your GMAT journey or looking for more official practice before test day, this episode will help you get more out of every question you study. Purchase the new GMAT Official Guide: mba.com/prep Register for the GMAT exam: mba.com/register Get materials from Manhattan Prep: manhattanprep.com/gmat About Stacey: Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student. Key Takeaways Official questions matter because they are real GMAT questions. Third-party prep can teach concepts and strategies, but official GMAT questions are the best way to practice what the real exam will feel like. The Official Guide works best after foundational learning. Candidates should first learn the underlying content, question types, and strategies, then use the Official Guide to quiz themselves. Review is where score improvement happens. Stacey emphasizes that every question should be reviewed, including questions answered correctly, because correct answers can reveal shortcuts, traps, and repeatable strategies. Mixed practice is more effective than over-drilling one question type. The GMAT requires candidates to shift between skills, formats, and sections. Prep should mimic that experience. The newest Official Guide may be worth it, but not always immediately. If a candidate already owns last year's guide and still has plenty of unused questions, they can continue with it. If they are buying for the first time, the newest edition is the better choice. Practice exams should be used carefully. Candidates should review each practice exam thoroughly and complete targeted study before taking another one. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Official Guide 2026-2027 01:07 The Importance of Official GMAT Tools 03:20 New Features and Questions in the Official Guide 11:38 Exploring the Content of the Big OG 16:02 Strategic Use of the Official Guide 18:15 The Value of Reviewing Correct Answers 22:14 Common Mistakes in GMAT Preparation 27:44 Utilizing the Official Guide Effectively 29:24 Review Books and Their Importance 34:17 Integrating Official Prep Tools with Outside Learning 37:46 Pro Tips for Leveraging the New Official Guide

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the current state of the MBA admissions season. We are continuing to see MBA programs release their final decisions. This upcoming week, Stanford, Ohio State / Fisher and SMU / Cox are releasing final decisions. A few MBA programs are also continuing to their next admissions rounds, including Rice / Jones. Graham noted that Clear Admit is continuing its MBA application overview events this week with the final two events, on May 26 and 27. Again, the majority of the leading MBA programs participate in these valuable events, including UPenn / Wharton, Columbia, Virginia / Darden, LBS, INSEAD, and Michigan / Ross this week. Signups are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham highlighted a Fridays from the Frontline feature from a student at Duke / Fuqua, and a recently published article on a $50 million gift to John's Hopkins / Carey Business School.  He also commented on some changes to the curriculum at IESE, where AI has been embedded across all disciplines. Graham continued with the Real Humans Alumni series. This week focuses on three alumni: HBS / Microsoft, Wharton / OpenAI and Yale / Twitch. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries and one DecisionWire entry: This week's first MBA admissions candidate is from India, is an engineer with a 725 GMAT score. This week's second MBA applicant is deciding between applying for a full-time MBA program, part-time program, or staying at work. This week's final MBA candidate is deciding between offers from NYU Stern and MIT Sloan. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

Many top-ranked MBA programs in Europe, Asia, Canada, and Australia actively encourage applicants to connect with admissions teams before submitting an application. But most applicants don't know this - or are too nervous to reach out.Should you contact admissions before you're ready? What if you haven't taken the GMAT yet, or your resume isn't polished? And how do you make sure the conversation is actually useful for both sides?In this episode, Darren invites Admissions Directors from three top-ranked programs - IESE (Spain), CUHK (Hong Kong), and AGSM (Australia) - to guide you on how to approach these early conversations, what to expect, and how to use them to strengthen your application.If you're considering reaching out to an MBA admissions team before applying, listen to this first.TopicsIntroduction (0:00)What is an MBA Pre-Assessment? with Roanne Law, CUHK MBA (3:15)How to Engage Early - Tips & Expectations with Patrik Wallen, IESE MBA (11:15)Addressing Common Concerns About Pre-Assessments with Kenneth Cheung, AGSM MBA (18:30)Show NotesCUHK MBAIESE MBAAGSM MBAGet pre-assessed by top MBA programs#116 Interacting with MBA Admissions Officers at Events#192 MBA Coffee Chats: Thoughtful Advice on How to Get the Most Out of Your MBA with Adam Putterman, Kellogg MMM '19Resources for MBA ApplicantsGet free school selection help at Touch MBAGet pre-assessed by top international MBA programsOur favorite MBA application tools (after advising 4,000 applicants)

"Anxiety and excitement are chemically the same reaction — context changes how we interpret it." What actually separates top GMAT performers from everyone else? In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Hailey Cusimano, Director of Tutoring at Menlo Coaching, to unpack the five traits she's observed that that drive GMAT success. Through the lens of curiosity, balance, consistency, resilience, and flexibility, Hailey explains why the GMAT is less about memorization and more about critical thinking, self-awareness, and intentional preparation. Whether you're just starting your prep journey or feeling stuck after months of studying, this episode offers actionable insights to help you study smarter — not just harder. About Hailey: Hailey Cusimano is a 99th-percentile performer and a self-proclaimed standardized test nerd. Drawing from her years of experience as an instructor, she knows how to assess students' main obstacles and strategize accordingly, maximizing efficiency in short study windows. Plus, her enthusiasm is infectious, and most students find studying with Hailey actually becomes—dare we say—fun. Helpful Resources: Menlo Coaching: https://menlocoaching.com/ Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register Purchase GMAT Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare Key Takeaways: The GMAT is fundamentally a critical thinking test — not a memorization test. Curiosity is one of the strongest predictors of long-term GMAT success. Reflective studying is far more valuable than simply completing large volumes of questions. Consistency matters more than cramming or weekend-only "study marathons." Burnout can quietly undermine progress, even for highly motivated students. Flexibility and adaptability are essential because the GMAT intentionally challenges rigid thinking. Top scorers are not confident all the time — they are resourceful when facing uncertainty. Students improve faster when they analyze why they got stuck, not just what they got wrong. Strong GMAT preparation requires balance between studying, work, rest, and personal life. Resilience allows students to turn setbacks, bad practice tests, and plateau periods into opportunities for growth. The best GMAT students treat mistakes as useful data rather than evidence of failure. Small, intentional daily study sessions are often more effective than infrequent marathon sessions. "Timeline creep" can happen when students study without structure, benchmarks, or accountability. Many students plateau because they over-focus on weaknesses and stop practicing holistically. The GMAT rewards thoughtful decision-making, resource management, and strategic thinking under pressure. Chapters: 00:00 Intro and Meet Hailey Cusimano, Menlo Coaching 08:02 Trait #1: Curiosity 13:50 Trait #2: Consistency 22:39 Trait #3: Balance 32:59 Trait #4: Flexibility 36:48 Trait #5: Resilience 43:11 Integrating Key Traits for Success 49:30 Actionable Steps for GMAT Success

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Christopher Gray. CEO and co-founder of Path. Gray discusses how his AI-powered platform is transforming test preparation for professional certifications, IT, cybersecurity, healthcare, and college admission exams.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Christopher Gray. CEO and co-founder of Path. Gray discusses how his AI-powered platform is transforming test preparation for professional certifications, IT, cybersecurity, healthcare, and college admission exams.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Christopher Gray. CEO and co-founder of Path. Gray discusses how his AI-powered platform is transforming test preparation for professional certifications, IT, cybersecurity, healthcare, and college admission exams.

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the current state of the MBA admissions season. We are continuing to see MBA programs release their final decisions. This upcoming week, UPenn / Wharton, Northwestern / Kellogg, Georgetown / McDonough, Boston College / Caroll, Yale SOM, MIT / Sloan, UCLA / Anderson, Washington / Foster and Washington / Olin are releasing final decisions. A few MBA programs are also continuing to their next admissions rounds, including Toronto / Rotman, Boston College / Carroll and Vanderbilt / Owen. Graham noted that Clear Admit is hosting several Application overview events in May, on May 19 and 20, and May 26 and 27. Signups for these events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham continued with the Real Humans Alumni series. This week focuses on four alumni from Mendoza / JP Morgan, LBS / Decisional AI, HEC / CarbonFarm and Kellogg / Amazon. Graham also highlighted new hires in leadership roles at Haas and Tepper. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected one LiveWire entry and two ApplyWire entries. This week's first MBA admissions candidate works in the airline industry and is seeking an MBA to transition into consulting, in the south. This week's second MBA applicant has startup experience in the fintech space and has a 685 GMAT score. This week's final MBA candidate is a machine learning engineer for a bulge bracket bank. They want to use the MBA to transition to investment banking. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

Want to know how to avoid the most common mistakes on the GRE? Jeff Eisenberg is the founder of Long Island Test Prep and has been a GRE, GMAT, and LSAT tutor for over 31 years. In this episode, Jeff shares his advice for avoiding the most common mistakes students tend to make on the GRE, helping you feel confident and prepared on test day. Achievable GRE uses AI-powered adaptive learning to target your weak areas and boost your score - visit https://achievable.me/exams/gre/overview/#s=podcast to try it for free.

"Candidates aren't chasing career switches—they're investing in long-term skills." If you're considering business school, you've probably asked yourself some big questions: Is it worth it? What should I prioritize? And how are other candidates making this decision? In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with his colleague Andrew Walker, Director of Industry Communications at GMAC, to unpack insights from the 2026 GMAC Prospective Student Survey—featuring perspectives from over 4,000 candidates worldwide. Together, they explore how candidate motivations are shifting, what "ROI" really means today, and how global preferences for where to study are evolving. In this episode, you'll learn: Why fewer candidates are pursuing business school for career switching How AI is shaping expectations for business school curricula What candidates really mean when they talk about ROI Key differences between younger and more experienced applicants Why interest in studying in the U.S. is shifting globally The growing demand for business master's degrees vs. MBAs How candidates are thinking about financing and application strategy Whether you're early in your journey or actively applying, this episode will help you better understand how to approach your decision—and what really matters. Key Takeaways: ROI is broader than ever: Candidates are thinking beyond salary—factoring in skills, network, personal growth, and long-term career resilience. Career switching is no longer the primary driver: More candidates are pursuing business school to build capabilities, not completely change paths. AI is reshaping expectations—but not replacing fundamentals: Demand for AI in the classroom is rising, but core skills like problem solving and strategic thinking remain central. Global study preferences are shifting: Interest in traditional destinations like the U.S. is softening, while Western Europe and parts of Asia are gaining traction. Rankings matter less—outcomes matter more: Candidates are increasingly prioritizing career outcomes and ROI over prestige alone. Younger vs. older candidates have different motivations: Younger: income, status, global experiences Older: targeted skill-building and career advancement Business master's degrees are gaining momentum: Especially among younger candidates—and even mid-career professionals looking for focused upskilling. Financing is central to decision-making: Candidates are applying to multiple programs and increasingly relying on financial aid as part of their strategy. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Business School Insights 01:25 Shifting Motivations for Pursuing an MBA 04:10 Understanding ROI in Business Education 07:08 Generational Differences in Business School Aspirations 09:07 Trends in Global Business School Preferences 11:53 Demand for MBAs vs. Business Masters 14:58 Financing Business Education 17:19 Key Takeaways from the Survey

Companies built on love outperform the S&P 500 by 14 to 1. Conscious capitalism, stakeholder leadership, healing organizations — Raj Sisodia proved it with data, then spent a year in the Himalayas and the Amazon proving it on himself.Raj Sisodia, Co-Founder of the Conscious Capitalism movement and author of sixteen books including Firms of Endearment and The Healing Organization, grew up across four countries and eight schools before the age of 18. He trained as an electrical engineer in India because that was what you did if you were good at math. He stumbled into a PhD at Columbia almost by accident — following seven friends to pick up a GMAT application and ending up the only one who made it to New York. From there, he built a body of research that fundamentally challenged Milton Friedman's doctrine that the only business of business is profit. Then, at 60, he turned that same rigour inward: pilgrimages to the high Himalayas, silent retreats with Peter Senge, and the painful reckoning with a father who once pointed a gun at him.This conversation runs close to what I have lived. When I watched Satya Nadella introduce "model, coach, care" at Microsoft — a framework Raj references directly — I saw firsthand what happens when a leader chooses purpose over power. And Raj's conviction that business must actively heal what it has broken echoes what drove me to create Live for Good: the belief that the organizations we build should leave people stronger, not depleted.In our conversation, we explore: → Why companies that spend 95% less on marketing than competitors have the highest customer loyalty — and what that reveals about extraction-based capitalism → The four pillars of Conscious Capitalism — higher purpose, stakeholder integration, conscious leadership, conscious culture — and the specific acronyms (HEALING, SPICY, SELFLESS) Raj uses to make them actionable → The Bob Chapman story: how one CEO refused to lay off a single employee during the 2008 crisis by asking "What would a family do?" — and emerged stronger than every competitor → His year of conscious awakening at 60 — pilgrimages, silent retreats, ayahuasca in the Amazon — and what four women forced him to confront about his own unhealed trauma → What conscious capitalism demands of AI: the marriage of humanity's most important idea with its most powerful technology — and why the market will ultimately correct for unconscious companies

The HKUST MBA has been one of Asia's top-ranked MBAs for many years - the Financial Times has ranked it top 25 globally 15 times. But, what is it actually like to study there?Stephen Shih, Associate Dean of MBA Programs at HKUST Business School and a former Partner at Bain & Company, shares what makes the HKUST MBA unique. We cover Hong Kong's strategic importance, the benefits of studying at a renowned science and technology university, HKUST's flexible curriculum, and the differences between the 12 and 16-month program options. Stephen also shares his views on AI's impact on MBA careers, what employers are prioritizing, and what the HKUST admissions team actually looks for beyond GMAT scores.Program Highlights - What Makes the HKUST MBA Unique?Introduction (0:00)What Makes the HKUST MBA Unique? (8:25)How HKUST is "Future-Proofing" its MBA as AI Reshapes Business (13:20)Why Hong Kong for Your MBA (20:00)HKUST MBA's 12 and 16-Month Course Structure (22:45)HKUST MBA's Student & Learning Culture (25:00)HKUST MBA Admissions & Scholarships - How to Improve Your Chances? What HKUST MBA Looks for from Applicants (27:00)Post-MBA Goals (29:00)Interviews (31:05)GMAT/GRE Scores (32:15)Stephen's Final Application Tips (35:50)How HKUST MBA Admissions Views Scholarships & How Applicants Can Win Funding (37:35)Career Opportunities at HKUST - What to Know & How to PrepareHow to Leverage HKUST's Career Resources to Land Post-MBA Jobs (40:30)HKUST Industry Placements & Resources for Entrepreneurs (45:45)What Applicants Need to Know about Landing Jobs in Hong Kong, China & Asia-Pacific (51:00)Maximizing ROI at the HKUST MBA (52:15)About Our GuestStephen Shih is the Associate Dean of MBA Programs at HKUST Business School. Previously, he was Executive Vice President of Learning & Development at Bain & Company in Shanghai, China. Stephen served as Head of MBA Career Services and Corporate Relations at HKUST from 2010-11 before returning to Bain & Company as a Partner and leading its organization practice in Asia-Pacific. Stephen majored in Economics at Princeton University and got his MBA from UCLA Anderson.Show NotesHKUST MBAHKUST MBA ScholarshipsHKUST Entrepreneurship CenterHKUST MBA SuperConnector PodcastHKUST Full-time MBA Highlights by Touch MBAMBA Application Resources⁠⁠⁠Get free school selection help at Touch MBA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get pre-assessed by top international MBA programs⁠⁠⁠⁠Our favorite MBA application tools (after advising 4,000 applicants)⁠

Today, we'll talk through a framework that'll help you evaluate whether you're building something useful enough to anchor a business. Most startups fail because the thing they built doesn't make a big enough dent in their customers lives. We'll make sure you don't make this mistake with help from Habit Kangaroo, a startup Brian ran back in 2014, and a GMAT training program his friend ran that helped people get into Harvard.  Tacklebox Byldd Greenlights 0:30 Building a Wildly Useful Startup 2:12 Why Measuring Usefulness is Hard 7:00 Byldd 7:53 Habit Kangaroo 12:50 The Usefulness Framework 13:24 What is your Secret? 13:51 Three Categories of Secrets: Customer 14:45 Three Categories of Secrets: Acquisition 15:16 Three Categories of Secrets: Product 17:08 Rivers and Dams 19:00 GMAT over 700 Product 23:02 Hire Yourself

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the current state of the MBA admissions season. We are now getting close to the end of the interview invite season for Round 2 as top MBA programs begin to release their final decisions. This upcoming week, UNC / Kenan Flagler, Duke / Fuqua, Michigan / Ross, Notre Dame / Mendoza, SMU / Cox and Imperial Business School are releasing their Round 2 decisions. A few MBA programs are also beginning their next admissions rounds, including Georgia / Terry, IESE and Maryland / Smith. Graham highlighted upcoming MBA webinar events. On March 19, we are hosting a series of panel discussions focused on international students who are targeting the top MBA programs in the United States. On May 11, Clear Admit is hosting our in-person MBA Fair in Atlanta. Signups for these events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham then highlighted several MBA admissions tips, focusing on Welcome Weekend events, the importance of pre-MBA coursework for MBA applicants, and two that focus on deferred admissions at UPenn / Wharton and Columbia. Finally, Graham addressed the new season of Real Humans Alumni. This week focuses on four alumni from Rice / Jones at Bain, NYU / Stern at BCG, Harvard at Amazon and CMU / Tepper at Morgan Stanley. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries and one DecisionWire entry: This week's first MBA admissions candidate is from India and is looking to pivot from accounting to finance. They are applying next season and still need to take the GMAT exam. This week's second MBA applicant has a 316 GRE score and is planning to retake the GRE before applying next season. We believe they will have a really strong profile if they can raise their GRE score. This week's final MBA candidate is deciding between Fuqua, Goizueta and Owen. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the current state of the MBA admissions season. We continue to see several top MBA programs rolling out their Round 2 interview invites. Next week UPenn / Wharton and INSEAD are scheduled to release their interview invites and we speculate that MIT Sloan will, too. We then briefly discussed our new interview prep tool,  Clear Admit's MBA Interview simulator  Thus far, we have seen broad adoption of this tool, and we expect word to continue to spread! The MBA interview simulator is trained on Clear Admit's extensive catalogue of interview resources including our interview archive and interview guides. Graham noted we are scheduled for our monthly AMA YouTube Livestream later today. Here is Clear Admit's YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@ClearAdmitMBA Graham also highlighted MBA webinar events that are on the horizon that Clear Admit is hosting. We are hosting a series for MiM programs which is scheduled for February 24 and 25. Clear Admit is also hosting events with London Business School and Vanderbilt / Owen later this week. On March 19, we are hosting a series of online panel discussions focused on international students who are targeting the top MBA programs in the United States. Finally, we are excited to announce our in-person admissions event, the MBA Fair, to be scheduled in Atlanta, on May 11. Signups for all these events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham then highlighted a recently published article from Clear Admit's Fridays from the Frontlines series, highlighting a veteran who is at Notre Dame / Mendoza.  Graham then noted three admissions tips which all focus on the interview experience: MBA interview etiquette, questions for the admissions interviewer, and post-interview follow-up. Graham addressed a recently published Real Humans piece that focuses on Class of 2027 HBS students. Then finally, we discussed this week's roll out of the Financial Times ranking. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries and one DecisionWire entry: This week's first MBA admissions candidate is a deferred admissions candidate who appears to have a very strong profile but still needs to take the GMAT. This week's second MBA applicant is from India, works in finance, and has a perfect 340 on the GRE test. This week's final MBA candidate is deciding between Wharton and Sloan with a scholarship. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the current state of the MBA admissions season. We continue to see several top MBA programs rolling out their Round 2 interview invites. Next week London Business School and Duke / Fuqua are scheduled to release their interview invitations. We then discussed our new interview prep tool,  Clear Admit's MBA Interview simulator  This simulator is designed to provide a realistic interview experience for the majority of the top MBA programs, and provide detailed feedback. It is trained on Clear Admit's extensive catalogue of interview resources including its interview archive and interview guides. Graham highlighted webinar events that are on the horizon that Clear Admit is hosting. The first webinar series of events is for deferred MBA admissions candidates who are currently completing their first degrees. The second event in this series is scheduled for Wednesday, and includes Haas, Stanford, Columbia, Wharton and Darden. The second series is for MiM programs and is scheduled for February 24 and 25. Clear Admit is also hosting events with London Business School and Vanderbilt / Owen this month. Signups for all these events are here: https://www.clearadmit.com/events Graham then highlighted several recently published articles from Clear Admit. These include a very popular admissions tip that covers the seven hardest MBA interview questions, and a summary of upcoming in-person events hosted by MBA programs. Also covered is Emory / Goizueta's one-year MBA program pathways and NYU / Stern's new AI concentration. Graham addressed two recently published MBA career reports, from INSEAD and Cornell / Johnson. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries and one DecisionWire entry: This week's first MBA admissions candidate is applying next season and has a 655 GMAT score. While they worry that they can't improve the score, we really encourage them to give it another try, or take the GRE. This week's second MBA applicant has a 760 GMAT score that expires in December. They need to target Round 1 next season, to avoid needing to retake the test. This week's final MBA candidate is deciding between Columbia and Duke or Ross with scholarship money. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!